The beloved Manchester-based biscuit bakery, is proudly celebrating a monumental 170 years of tradition and baking excellence.
Founded in 1855, the company has grown from a small family-run business into one of the UK’s most trusted manufacturers of the nation’s favourite biscuits.
Hill Biscuits factory is located on Smith Street in Ashton-under-Lyne.
In 1855, John and Sarah Hill opened a small shop in Dukinfield.
Just a few years later in 1889, the manufacturing business started to develop on a much larger scale, and on Saturday, November 4, 1893, the foundation stone for the landmark Tudno Mill, which still houses the bakery today, was laid by Sarah.
Limited edition anniversary packaging rolled out recently, marking the occasion with two timeless classics - Custard Creams and Bourbon Finger Creams. It’s the perfect nod to British tea-time traditions, with a nostalgic twist.
“Reaching 170 years is a tremendous achievement,” said Tracey Meadows, Commercial Director at Hill Biscuits.
“It’s a testament to the dedication of our team, the loyalty of our customers and the enduring appeal of a good biscuit. We’re proud of our heritage and equally excited about this year’s celebrations.”
The making of the biscuits. Credit: Hill Biscuits
Rooted in traditional Victorian recipes that are still used today, quality craftsmanship and strong community ties, Hill Biscuits continues to produce millions of biscuits each month from its bakery in Ashton-under-Lyne.
The 2-acre bakery operates 24hrs per day, employing roughly 370 colleagues.
The most-loved biscuit is the custard cream; Hill Biscuits have 8 different flavours, including the traditional one whose recipe hasn’t changed since Victorian times.
Hill supplies over 100 product lines including sharing packs, multi-packs, mini-packs, and mixed cases to retail, wholesale, and foodservice sectors.
Hill Biscuits is a British success story, Hill has become one of the largest and longest established biscuit manufacturers in the UK following family recipes handed down through the generations, producing hundreds of millions of biscuits each year.
Additional initiatives to honour Hill’s heritage include:
- A special exhibition at Portland Basin Museum until September 2025
- Biscuit donations to local causes on National Biscuit Day (29 May)
- A collective 170 km run by Hill staff
- And a series of heartfelt afternoon teas at HQ to welcome back former colleagues to reminisce over a cuppa
From custard creams to Bourbons and everything in between, Hill Biscuits has played a cherished role in British biscuit tins for nearly two centuries.
The 170th anniversary also shines a spotlight on the company’s ongoing investment in its people and processes. Hill Biscuits remains a proud regional employer and is actively exploring more sustainable practices to improve energy efficiency and support the local community.
As part of the celebrations, Hill Biscuits will share stories and memories from across its 170-year journey, inviting customers to get involved using the hashtag #Hillis170.
Hill Biscuits bakery on Smith Street. Credit: Hill Biscuits
A look into the factory. Credit: Hill Biscuits
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