Whittlesey, in Cambridgeshire, had a population of around 17,000 at the 2021 census — a Fenland town best known for a folk custom found almost nowhere else in the country.
Home of the Straw Bear Festival
Whittlesey is known for the Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival, a folk custom recorded in the town since at least the 19th century, in which a local resident is dressed head to toe in straw and paraded through the streets. The tradition was revived in 1980 after falling out of use and now draws visitors from across the country every January.
What that history doesn't leave behind
This town's history doesn't come with a dedicated sweet shop set up for bulk bags, vegan-specific ranges or halal-friendly lines — not the kind of retail a town this size tends to support locally.
Why Whittlesey shoppers order online anyway
For anything past a corner-shop bag, ordering online is more consistent — no trip into Peterborough required.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Whittlesey 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 Whittlesey?
Yes — we deliver UK-wide including Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days.
What is the Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival?
It's a folk custom recorded in Whittlesey since at least the 19th century, in which a costumed 'straw bear' is paraded through the town. Revived in 1980, it now takes place every January.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Whittlesey?
Not from a local shop — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Whittlesey addresses instead.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.