Cotton candy, otherwise known in the UK as candy floss, is a treat that instantly transports people back to childhood.
Whether enjoyed at a seaside pier, a funfair, or a carnival, the fluffy, sugary delight has been a part of British culture for generations.
But where did it come from, and how did it become a staple of British sweets
Let’s take a deep dive into the fascinating history of candy floss and its enduring popularity in the UK.
The Origins of Candy Floss
While sugar-spinning techniques date back to medieval times, the modern form of candy floss we know today began in the 19th century.
According toNational Geographic, John Wharton and William Morrison—an American confectioner and a dentist (ironically!)— in 1899, patented the first machine to spin melted sugar into thin strands. Their invention made it possible to mass-produce cotton candy, making it a hit at fairs and events.
The first official introduction of this treat came at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, where Wharton and Morrison sold an astonishing 69,000 boxes of candy floss at 25 cents each. This success cemented cotton candy’s place in the world of confectionery.
However, the British already had their own traditions of spun sugar dating back centuries. Cooks in the 18th century experimented with sugar art, creating delicate threads of spun sugar to decorate cakes and desserts. When candy floss machines became more widely available, the UK adopted the treat and gave it its own name—candy floss—inspired by the wispy, thread-like texture of the spun sugar.
Why is it Called Candy Floss in the UK?
In the UK, the term candy floss comes from the idea of fine sugar threads resembling strands of cotton or wool. While cotton candy became the common name in the U.S., the British term remained unique, aligning more with the fluffy, fibrous look of the treat.
Interestingly, different cultures around the world have their own names for this sweet delight:
- Australia: Fairy Floss
- France: Barbe à papa (Daddy’s Beard)
- India & Greece: Old Lady’s Hair
- China: Dragon’s Beard
- Persia: Pashmak
- Turkey: Pismaniye
No matter the name, the concept remains the same—a cloud-like, melt-in-your-mouth sugary delight!
Candy Floss and British Culture
Candy floss quickly became a funfair essential in Britain. By the early 20th century, it was a must-have at seaside towns like Brighton, Blackpool, and Bournemouth, where families would stroll along the piers enjoying sticks of fluffy pink or blue sugar.
In the 1970s, the invention of mass-production machines allowed candy floss to be packaged and sold in shops, making it available beyond fairs and carnivals. It soon became a staple at events like:
- Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) – A classic snack while watching fireworks.
- Summer Funfairs and Theme Parks – The ultimate childhood treat.
- Seaside Holidays – A traditional sweet indulgence on the promenade.
Today, candy floss is still a nostalgic favourite, loved by children and adults alike, and remains a symbol of joy, excitement, and sweet memories.
Modern Twists on Candy Floss
While traditional pink and blue candy floss is still the most popular, British confectioners have taken the treat to new levels with unique flavours and creative presentations.
Some exciting variations include:
- Flavoured Candy Floss – Think apple, bubblegum, and even gin-infused varieties!
- Candy Floss Cocktails – A modern trend in bars where a tuft of candy floss melts into a cocktail for added sweetness.
- Gourmet Candy Floss Desserts – Restaurants now serve candy floss as a topping for cakes, sundaes, and milkshakes.
At One Stop British Shop, we love celebrating traditional British treats, including the ones that bring a sense of fun and nostalgia—just like candy floss does!
Experience the Sweetness of Britain – Shop Now
From candy floss to classic British sweets, One Stop British Shop brings you the best of UK confectionery right here in Australia.
Whether you’re looking to relive childhood memories or introduce someone to these iconic treats, we have a wide range of British sweets, chocolates, and groceries to satisfy your cravings.
Shop Now and bring a taste of Britain home today!