I explored Birmingham's nostalgic Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, a tucked away treasure full of retro confections

Tucked away in the historic Great Western Arcade in Birmingham’s city centre, Mr. Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe is a charming retro sweet shop with a delightful purpose: to take visitors on a trip down memory lane.

This beloved store, owned by Tara Gahir, is a treasure trove of nostalgic sweets, quirky treats, and heart-warming customer service, all contributing to its unique place in the Birmingham community.

“We pride ourselves on the fact that every customer feels like they take a trip down memory lane,” says Tara, reflecting on the shop’s mission.

“We’re about to get super busy for Christmas too—there’s no better place to find those quirky stocking fillers you can’t get anywhere else.”

A step back in time with classic confections

Nestled beside The Good Intent pub, Mr. Simms may be easy to miss from the outside, but its charm is unmistakable to those who venture inside.

Rows of colourful sweets, each evoking a sense of childhood wonder, line the walls. The shop’s bestsellers include traditional British favourites like Rhubarb and Custard and Pineapple Rocks, along with more unusual treats such as “chilly gummy bears” and “zombie bombs.”

Old-fashioned Christmas tins, Jolly Ranchers, liquorice, and a retro mix of candies are just a few of the nostalgic offerings. Each sweet sold brings with it a memory of days gone by, delighting both longtime residents and newcomers to the city alike.

Customer-favourite hidden gem in Birmingham

Open for over a decade, Mr. Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe has steadily built a loyal customer base. A recent visit saw customers steadily coming in and out, a bustling scene that testifies to the shop’s enduring appeal.

“Great staff, great selection of sweets from retro imports,” reads one Google review, while another fondly describes the shop as a “hidden gem… with very good service, sweets, and atmosphere.”

The historic setting: Great Western Arcade

The Great Western Arcade, where Mr. Simms resides, adds a layer of history to the shop’s vintage appeal.

This Grade II listed building, constructed in 1877 by the Great Western Railway Company, was originally built to span a tunnel for the railway line between Moor Street and Snow Hill.

Though the building sustained damage during World War II, it remains an iconic part of Birmingham, attracting both tourists and locals to its unique blend of independent and quirky shops.

Entering from Temple Row, visitors are greeted by beautiful stone masonry, a reminder of the arcade’s storied past. Today, the arcade is a haven for those seeking something out of the ordinary—Mr. Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe included.

Perfect for Christmas and all year round

As the holiday season approaches, the team at Mr. Simms is gearing up for an influx of festive shoppers. Whether you’re looking for stocking fillers or just a sweet treat for yourself, Mr. Simms offers a warm, nostalgic escape from the busy city streets. For many, it’s more than just a sweet shop—it’s a delightful blend of history, tradition, and the simple joys of a well-loved candy.

So next time you’re near Colmore Row or Temple Row, take a moment to pop into the Great Western Arcade and experience a bit of Birmingham’s past.

You might just find your new favourite sweet spot—and perhaps a taste of nostalgia that will have you coming back for more.