What began in Laygate as Harry Swainston's little tobacconist, soon became a local favourite, selling loose tobacco, snuff and more.

When Charlie added sweets, the magic really began.

By the 1860's
The Whiteleas shop was where generations of children spent their pennies and adults re-lived their own childhoods.
Lovingly ran by Barry and Nan for many years, Swainston's closed in 2015.
But the memories never did.

In 2024, Mr Swainston's was born, with Barry's blessing, to keep the story alive for the next generation.

Read about the Return of Swainston's →