Yorkshire has given the world far more than breathtaking landscapes and picturesque market towns. From globally recognised brands and sporting history to much-loved foods and everyday inventions, the county has quietly shaped life far beyond its borders.
To celebrate Yorkshire Day, here are 15 things you might be surprised to learn originated right here in God’s Own County.
1. Terry’s Chocolate Orange
📍 York, North Yorkshire
One of Britain’s most iconic chocolates was born in York. Originally produced by Terry’s of York, the Chocolate Orange has become a festive favourite in homes across the country and is now enjoyed around the world.
2. KitKat
📍 York, North Yorkshire
Before becoming one of the world’s best-selling chocolate bars, the KitKat was created by York-based confectionery company Rowntree’s in 1935.
Today, billions are sold every year across more than 80 countries.
The original name was Rowntree’s Chocolate Crisp before becoming KitKat.
3. Liquorice Allsorts
📍 Pontefract, West Yorkshire
Pontefract has been associated with liquorice for centuries, and the town’s famous Liquorice Allsorts remain one of Yorkshire’s sweetest success stories.
4. Henderson’s Relish
📍 Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Affectionately known as “Hendos”, this delicious relish has been made in Sheffield since 1885 and has become something of a South Yorkshire institution.
Many locals wouldn’t dream of putting anything else on a pie, stew or Sunday dinner.
Fun fact – if you compare it to Worcestershire Sauce, you’ll probably need stitches…
5. Wensleydale Cheese
📍 Wensleydale, North Yorkshire
Made in the Yorkshire Dales for hundreds of years, Wensleydale Cheese is now famous worldwide thanks to its creamy texture and unmistakable crumbly finish.
Its popularity received a huge boost after appearing in the Wallace & Gromit films.
6. Forced Rhubarb
📍 The Rhubarb Triangle, West Yorkshire
Between Leeds, Wakefield and Morley lies the famous Rhubarb Triangle, where forced rhubarb has been grown by candlelight for generations.
Its unique growing method produces sweeter, more tender stalks than conventional rhubarb.
7. Marks & Spencer
📍 Leeds, West Yorkshire
One of Britain’s biggest retailers began with a single market stall in Leeds’ Kirkgate Market in 1884.
From humble beginnings, Marks & Spencer grew into one of the UK’s most recognisable high street brands.
8. Football
📍 Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Founded in 1857, Sheffield FC is officially recognised by FIFA as the oldest football club in the world.
Its influence helped shape the modern game long before professional football existed.
9. Stainless Steel
📍 Sheffield, South Yorkshire
In 1913, Sheffield metallurgist Harry Brearley discovered stainless steel while experimenting with stronger metals for gun barrels.
His accidental invention transformed industries around the world, from kitchens to medicine and engineering.
10. Rowntree’s Fruit Pastilles
📍 York, North Yorkshire
Introduced by Rowntree’s in the late 19th century, Fruit Pastilles have remained one of Britain’s favourite sweets for well over a century.
11. Polo Mints
📍 York, North Yorkshire
The famous mint with the hole in the middle was developed by Rowntree’s in York before becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable sweets.
12. Cat’s Eye Road Studs
📍 Halifax, West Yorkshire
One of Britain’s most important road safety inventions came from Yorkshire.
Percy Shaw invented the Cat’s Eye road stud after noticing how light reflected from a cat’s eyes on a dark road near Halifax. His invention went on to improve road safety across the world.
Millions of Cat’s Eyes are still used on roads today, more than 90 years after their invention.
Honorary mention – Yorkshire Puddings
No list would be complete without a Yorkshire Pudding, but it seems a very obvious addition…
Originally created as an inexpensive way to make meals go further, it has become one of Britain’s most famous dishes and a Sunday roast staple.
Early recipes referred to them as “dripping puddings” because they cooked beneath roasting meat to catch the delicious meaty juices.
Yorkshire’s influence stretches far beyond its rolling countryside, dramatic coastline, and historic towns. From world-famous confectionery and iconic food to sporting milestones and life-changing inventions, the county has left its mark across the globe in ways many people never realise.
Whether you’re celebrating Yorkshire Day or simply discovering more about God’s Own County, these stories are a reminder that Yorkshire’s heritage is as rich and varied as its landscapes.
If this article has inspired you to explore the places behind these famous creations, why not visit the towns and cities where their stories began? From the chocolate-making heritage of York and the industrial legacy of Sheffield to the picturesque streets of Harrogate and the historic market town of Pontefract, there’s always something new to discover.
‘Appy Yorkshire Day Folks!
