14/04/2026
Do you remember the rustle of a Spangles packet and trying to guess the flavour before you tasted it?
Spangles were one of those classic British sweets that seemed to be everywhere in the 1950s and 60s. Made by Rowntree's, they came in small, brightly coloured packs and were known for their bold, fruity flavours.
What made Spangles stand out was the variety. You never quite knew what you were going to get next. Orange, lemon, blackcurrant, lime – all sharp, sweet, and long-lasting. There was also the famous “Old English” range, which had more unusual flavours that people still talk about today.
They were hard sweets, meant to be sucked rather than crunched, and they seemed to last forever. Perfect for making them stretch out as long as possible… or for saving a few in your pocket for later.
Like many sweets of the time, they were simple but memorable. No fancy packaging, no gimmicks – just strong flavours and that satisfying crackle as you opened the wrapper.
Spangles disappeared for a time and later made brief returns, but for many, the originals are the ones that stuck in the memory.
Looking back, it wasn’t just about the taste. It was the anticipation of what flavour you’d get next that made them special.
