Walkers crisps are undoubtedly one of the most popular snack brands in the UK, known as Lay’s in some countries. Whether you love classic Ready Salted, tangy Salt & Vinegar, or the divisive Prawn Cocktail, there’s a flavour for everyone. But beyond just being delicious, Walkers crisps have something extra special—their factory in Pimbo, Skelmersdale.
The Walkers factory isn’t just any factory. It’s a powerhouse of crisp production, with an undeniable wow factor that makes it a must-see (or rather, must-smell) destination for snack lovers like us.
One of the best things about living near a food factory is the incredible smells that fill the air. My dad and I have a fun little tradition—taking a ride out on certain nights to do what we call the “sniff test.” It’s a simple but satisfying game: what flavour are they making today?
On a recent visit, we were convinced they were producing Monster Munch. That unmistakable tang of Pickled Onion and the rich depth of Beef filled the air, and honestly, it was divine. There’s something oddly comforting about knowing that somewhere behind those factory walls, thousands of our favourite crisps are being created at that very moment.
Of course, Walkers isn’t the only factory around that delivers scented delights. A little further afield, in Northwich, you’ll find Roberts Bakery. If you’ve ever driven past, you’ll know exactly what I mean—the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread is just awwww. There’s nothing quite like it. That scent alone could make anyone crave a thick, buttery slice of toast.
But have you ever noticed that all Walkers crisps (and most other brands) go out of date on a Saturday? It’s not a coincidence—it’s actually down to how crisp production is scheduled. Walkers run their production week from Sunday to Saturday, and all crisps made in a given week get the same best-before date. Since they work on a set cycle, Saturday is always the day the dates fall on. It’s a little quirk of the crisp world that most people don’t even realise.
So, what makes Walkers so special?
They’ve been around since 1948, perfecting the art of making crisps that are crispier, crunchier, and tastier than ever. They constantly innovate with new flavours, from classic favourites to limited-edition releases like Cajun Squirrel. And, of course, they use top-quality ingredients—British potatoes, top-tier seasonings, and that signature crunch.
Whether you’re doing your own sniff test, enjoying a bag with a sandwich, or reminiscing about classic flavours, one thing is for sure—Walkers crisps are a national treasure.
What’s your favourite Walkers flavour?