The Most Popular Retro Sweets From The 1970s

The 1970s was a decade of bold fashion, groovy music, and, of course, some of the most iconic retro sweets of all time. It was an era when kids would rush to the corner shop with a pocketful of change, eager to grab their favourite treats.

Here’s a nostalgic look back at some of the most popular retro sweets that defined the decade and we count down The Most Popular Retro Sweets From The 1970s.

Unlike today, where chocolate bars and mass-produced snacks dominate the shelves, the 70s had a unique selection of confectionery that focused on bold flavours, interactive experiences, and nostalgic charm. From chewy toffees to tangy sherbet, every sweet had its own personality, and each one carried with it a sense of excitement and adventure. Many of these retro treats have stood the test of time, while others remain only in fond memories.

For those who grew up in the 1970s, these sweets were more than just tasty snacks—they were a part of everyday life. They were treats shared with friends, rewards for good behaviour, and sometimes even the currency of the playground. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and rediscover the most popular sweets of the decade!

1. Black Jacks & Fruit Salads

These chewy little squares were a staple of 70s sweet shops. Black Jacks had a strong aniseed flavour, while Fruit Salads had a tangy, fruity taste. They were often sold together, giving kids a mix of bold and sweet flavours.

Black Jacks were particularly memorable for their intense liquorice taste, which divided opinion among sweet lovers. Some kids adored their rich flavour, while others preferred the milder, more universally appealing Fruit Salads. Either way, they were a must-have when filling up a paper bag with penny sweets.

Both sweets were individually wrapped, making them easy to share and perfect for pocket money purchases. They were small but packed a powerful punch of flavour, making them a classic choice in any 70s sweet haul.

2. Sherbet Fountain

This classic treat came in a yellow tube and featured tangy sherbet powder paired with a liquorice dipping stick. The joy of dipping (or sometimes just pouring the sherbet straight into your mouth) made it a favourite among children.

The liquorice stick itself was a divisive element—some loved the chewy, bittersweet contrast to the sherbet, while others found it tough to eat. Many children ended up using their fingers instead, much to the dismay of parents who had to deal with sticky, sugary hands.

Sherbet Fountains were as much about the experience as they were about the taste. The fun of dipping, shaking, and eating in different ways made them a highlight of any trip to the sweet shop.

3. Anglo Bubbly

Bubblegum was all the rage in the 1970s, and Anglo Bubbly was a top choice. With its distinctive pink colour and sweet, long-lasting flavour, it was the perfect treat for blowing giant bubbles.

Unlike modern bubblegum, which often loses its flavour quickly, Anglo Bubbly retained its sweetness for a surprisingly long time. It had a slightly harder texture at first but soon softened into a perfect consistency for chewing and bubble-blowing.

Kids would often challenge each other to see who could blow the biggest bubble, sometimes resulting in a sticky mess when the bubble inevitably popped onto their faces. The fun and competitive nature of this sweet made it a staple of playgrounds across the country.

4. Refreshers

Swizzels Matlow’s Refreshers were fizzy, chewy sweets packed with a sherbet centre. Their zingy taste and bright colours made them a hit with kids looking for a tangy treat.

Unlike regular chews, Refreshers had an extra burst of sherbet inside, creating a unique fizzy sensation when bitten into. This made them more exciting than your standard sweet and ensured they remained a firm favourite.

They were available in multiple flavours, but the lemon and raspberry varieties were among the most popular. The combination of chewiness and fizz made them a must-have item in any 70s sweet stash.

5. Drumstick Lollies

Another creation from Swizzels Matlow, these chewy, milk and raspberry-flavoured lollipops became a favourite in the 70s and are still loved today.

Drumsticks had a unique texture—soft and chewy yet firm enough to be enjoyed over time. They weren’t like traditional hard lollipops; instead, they offered a slow-eating experience that lasted much longer than a standard sweet.

The creamy, fruity flavour combination set them apart from other sweets of the era. Their distinctive red and white swirls became instantly recognisable, making them a beloved treat for generations.

6. Flying Saucers

These colourful, edible rice paper discs were filled with a burst of sherbet inside. The combination of a melt-in-your-mouth outer shell and fizzy centre made them an exciting and unique treat.

Unlike other sweets, Flying Saucers had a delicate, paper-like texture that dissolved almost instantly upon contact with the tongue. The fizzy sherbet centre added a surprise element, making them a fun and interactive treat.

Their space-age look and unique eating experience made them particularly popular among kids who loved imaginative and unusual sweets. Even today, they remain a nostalgic favourite for many.

7. Wham Bars

Launched in the late 1970s, Wham Bars were chewy, fizzy, and packed with tangy flavour. The popping candy pieces inside gave an extra surprise with every bite.

The texture was both soft and slightly sticky, making them a challenge to chew at times but well worth the effort. The vibrant packaging and bold taste made them a standout sweet of the era.

Wham Bars quickly became a playground favourite, and their fizzy, fruity flavour ensured their popularity well into the 80s and beyond. Their mix of chewiness and crackling candy made every bite an adventure.

8. Love Hearts

A sweet that brought messages of love and friendship, Love Hearts were pastel-coloured, fizzy tablets with cute phrases like “Be Mine” and “Hug Me.” They were often exchanged among friends and young sweethearts.

The fizzy texture and slightly tangy taste made them more exciting than regular hard sweets. Each pack contained a variety of messages, adding an element of fun and surprise with every sweet.

Their popularity wasn’t just about taste—they were also a social sweet, often used for fun games or as a way to send playful messages among friends. This made them a staple at parties and school playgrounds.

9. Toffo

Nestlé’s Toffo was a roll of chewy, creamy toffees that provided a long-lasting treat. Perfect for those who loved something sweet and chewy.

Unlike brittle toffees, Toffo had a softer, more forgiving texture, making them easier to chew but still satisfying. They came in different flavours, including original and fruit varieties.

Their individually wrapped format made them ideal for sharing and keeping in a pocket for later. For many, Toffo was a comforting, reliable sweet that never disappointed.

10. Curly Wurly

Introduced in the early 70s, the Curly Wurly was a unique mix of chewy caramel and milk chocolate. Its lattice-style design made it fun to eat and a standout choice in sweet shops.

The thin, elongated shape allowed for easy biting, while the caramel gave it a satisfying chew. Unlike heavier chocolate bars, it was light yet fulfilling, making it perfect for kids with smaller appetites.

The playful design and delicious combination of textures made Curly Wurly a hit, and its nostalgic appeal keeps it popular even today.

Best Retro Sweets From The 1970s

The 1970s was an unforgettable era for sweets, bringing joy to children and adults alike with its colourful and exciting confections. Whether it was the fizzy thrill of Refreshers, the chewy delight of Anglo Bubbly, or the playful experience of a Sherbet Fountain, every sweet told a story and created lasting memories. These treats weren’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth—they were a part of childhood adventures, playground trades, and moments of pure delight.

While many of these retro favourites are still around today, they hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up enjoying them in their prime. For some, they’re a nostalgic treat to rediscover, while for others, they offer a glimpse into the past—a time when a pocket full of pennies could buy a bag of happiness.

No matter how much the world of confectionery has changed, the magic of 70s sweets lives on. Whether you’re reminiscing or introducing these classics to a new generation, there’s something special about revisiting the flavours of the past. Which of these retro favourites do you remember best?