Longridge grew up around its quarries, and the railway built to serve them is one of the more unusual stories in Lancashire's industrial history.
A railway that ran on gravity
The Preston and Longridge Railway opened in 1840 specifically to move stone from Longridge's Tootle Heights quarry down to Preston. It was built as a single-line tramway, and for most of the route the loaded wagons needed no engine at all — gravity did the work, rolling them down towards the town below.
Stone that built Preston and Liverpool
Longridge stone wasn't just used locally. It can still be seen in the Harris Museum in Preston and in buildings around Liverpool's historic dock area — a solid, unglamorous export that helped shape two of the North West's biggest cities. The arrival of the railway also brought cotton mills to Longridge, and the town grew considerably through the mid-19th century.
Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else
Longridge's history is built on stone and rail, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of Lancashire and the UK.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Longridge and the rest of Lancashire included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.
Frequently asked questions
Do you deliver sweets to Longridge?
Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.
Why was the Preston and Longridge Railway built?
It opened in 1840 to carry stone from local quarries down to Preston, with wagons running most of the way by gravity alone.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Longridge?
Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Longridge addresses.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.