When it comes to iconic British comfort food, nothing beats a proper plate of fish and chips. Golden crispy batter, flaky white fish, chunky hand-cut chips, and that essential splash of malt vinegar — it’s more than a meal, it’s a tradition. In this 2025 guide, I’ve rounded up the top 15 best fish and chips spots in the UK, loved by locals and praised by travelers alike. Whether you’re on the coast or in the heart of a city, these places serve fish and chips done right. Let’s dig in.
1. The Magpie Café – Whitby, North Yorkshire
You’ll often see a queue outside The Magpie Café — and for good reason. Located by Whitby’s scenic harbour, this place has been serving fresh North Sea haddock and cod since the 1930s. The fish is crisped to perfection, and the chips? Fluffy inside, crunchy outside.
- What to try: Go for the classic haddock with a side of mushy peas. Their homemade tartar sauce is legendary.
- Bonus tip: Ask for a seat upstairs for views of the harbour while you eat.
- Website: The Magpie Café
2. Anstruther Fish Bar – Anstruther, Fife, Scotland
Voted “Best Fish & Chip Shop in Scotland” multiple times, this family-run spot is a must if you’re exploring the Scottish coast. They source their fish straight from local boats, and everything is cooked fresh to order.
- What to try: The haddock supper is the house favourite, but the haggis fritters are a cheeky bonus if you want to try something local.
- Fun fact: Even Prince William is said to have stopped here during his student days at St Andrews.
- Website: Anstruther Fish Bar
3. Fish Lounge – Herne Hill, London
In a city packed with food options, Fish Lounge remains a South London gem. It’s spotless, quick, and the portions are generous without compromising quality.
- What to try: The cod and chips with curry sauce. If you’re vegetarian, their halloumi bites are also a hit.
- Insider note: They’re serious about sustainability — all their fish is responsibly sourced.
- Website: Fish Lounge
4. Trenchers – Whitby, North Yorkshire
Another Whitby institution, Trenchers was crowned the UK’s Best Fish and Chip Restaurant by the National Fish & Chip Awards. It’s a slightly more refined sit-down experience, perfect for a relaxed meal with family.
- What to try: Try the lemon sole or the scampi for something different. They also serve gluten-free options every day.
- Ambience bonus: The traditional-style interior gives off classic seaside charm, minus the fuss.
- Website: Trenchers Restaurant
5. The Cod’s Scallops – Nottingham
This award-winning chippy has redefined fish and chips with a twist — they offer over 20 types of fish daily, all cooked to your liking (battered, grilled, or baked).
- What to try: The battered monkfish or sea bass for a gourmet spin. Don’t skip the minted mushy peas!
- Cool touch: You can also eat-in in their nautical-themed dining room, which feels like stepping into a fishing boat.
- Website: The Cod’s Scallops
6. Papa’s Fish and Chips – Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire
Papa’s is one of the largest fish and chip restaurants in the world, seating over 500 guests, yet it still delivers quality with every plate. Run by the Papas family for three generations, it has earned national awards and a loyal local following.
- What to try: The haddock is fantastic, but their “Papas Classic Cod” with chunky chips and a pot of tartar sauce is a crowd-pleaser.
- Unique appeal: The location on Cleethorpes Pier offers stunning sea views while you dine.
- Website: Papa’s Fish and Chips
7. Simpsons Fish and Chips – Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Simpsons has won UK’s Fish & Chip Shop of the Year, and they focus on responsibly sourced, sustainable fish. Everything is crisp, fresh, and fried in beef dripping (unless you request otherwise), giving it that old-school flavor locals adore.
- What to try: The traditional cod & chips with a side of curry sauce. Their vegetarian “tofish” is also popular.
- Standout feature: You can dine in or take away — both equally top-notch.
- Website: Simpsons Fish and Chips
8. Fraser’s Fish & Chips – Penzance, Cornwall
This award-winning Cornish chippy is just steps away from the sea and serves line-caught fish and hand-cut chips. They’re passionate about sustainability and flavor — and it shows.
- What to try: The battered hake or lemon sole, caught fresh off the coast. Pair it with Cornish cider or a sea view.
- Eco-friendly bonus: They use fully compostable packaging and only sustainable oils.
- Website: Fraser’s Fish & Chips
9. The Bay Fish & Chips – Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
The Bay is multi-award-winning, including for sustainability. Set right on the beach, it offers some of the freshest fish around, cooked with a strong commitment to the environment.
- What to try: The North Sea haddock and chips with homemade tartar sauce. Also try their unique smoked sausage supper if you’re feeling bold.
- Locals’ tip: Grab your order and eat it on the beach at sunset — it’s a full experience.
- Website: The Bay Fish & Chips
10. Stein’s Fish & Chips – Padstow, Cornwall
Owned by celebrity chef Rick Stein, this seafood hotspot in Padstow elevates the humble chippy with a chef’s flair. Everything is fried to golden perfection, and their homemade sauces take it up a notch.
- What to try: Go for the battered cod or hake with homemade tartar sauce and Cornish chips. For something a bit fancy, try the grilled fish with aioli.
- Foodie bonus: Pair it with a stroll along Padstow Harbour or stop by Rick Stein’s seafood deli next door.
- Website: Stein’s Fish & Chips
11. No.1 Cromer – Cromer, Norfolk
Owned by Michelin-starred chef Galton Blackiston, No.1 Cromer offers a gourmet take on traditional fish and chips without losing that seaside soul. It’s perched above the beach, with sweeping sea views and a stylish, casual vibe.
- What to try: Their battered Cromer crab or line-caught haddock. Finish with a scoop from their house-made ice cream bar.
- Locals’ tip: Eat upstairs for table service and a panoramic view of the Norfolk coast.
- Website: No.1 Cromer
12. Henley’s of Wivenhoe – Wivenhoe, Essex
Henley’s has quietly built a reputation as one of the best independent fish & chip shops in the southeast. Everything is fresh, locally sourced, and cooked with care — no frills, just top-quality food.
- What to try: Go classic with cod and chips, or try their popular battered sausage for a twist.
- Fun detail: It’s tucked away in a charming riverside village, making it a perfect stop on a countryside drive.
- Website: Henley’s of Wivenhoe
13. Sole Bay Fish Company – Southwold, Suffolk
This small but mighty shack near the Southwold Harbour serves fish so fresh, it’s caught and cooked within hours. You’ll be eating just feet from where the boats dock.
- What to try: The battered plaice is incredibly light, and their chips are thick-cut and deeply golden. Pair with a side of local pickled onions.
- Atmosphere note: Rustic, seaside vibes with no fuss — just fantastic food and salty sea air.
- Website: Sole Bay Fish Company
14. Petrou Brothers – Chatteris, Cambridgeshire
Petrou Brothers is a multi-award-winning, family-run chippy known for innovation and quality. They’ve been featured in countless food awards and were among the first to go fully MSC certified for sustainable fish.
- What to try: The cod loin is a local favorite — thick, juicy, and perfectly battered.
- Bonus: Gluten-free fish & chips are available every day.
- Website: Petrou Brothers
15. The Wallace Collection Café – Hidden Gem in Marylebone
This small shop near Plymouth has gained national fame, winning “Best Fish and Chip Takeaway” in the UK. Their focus on freshness, sustainability, and customer service makes them stand out.
- What to try: Try the battered Cornish haddock or their popular fishcake stacks.
- Standout detail: Kingfisher offers 24 species of fish, making it one of the most diverse menus in the UK — and every single item is traceable.
- Website: Kingfisher Fish & Chips
Final Thoughts
From the windswept harbours of Whitby to the busy backstreets of London, fish and chips remains a beloved British tradition. These 15 spots aren’t just tourist traps — they’re tried and tested favourites of locals who know good fish when they taste it. If you’re planning your UK travels for 2025, make sure at least one of these legendary chippies is on your route.
FAQs – UK Fish & Chips
What fish is typically used in UK fish and chips?
Cod and haddock are the most popular, but you’ll also find plaice, pollock, and even skate in some places.
What should I eat with fish and chips?
Classic sides include mushy peas, curry sauce, pickled onions, or bread and butter. And yes, lashings of salt and vinegar are a must.
Are these shops vegetarian-friendly?
Most offer vegetarian sides, and a few, like Fish Lounge and The Cod’s Scallops, offer veggie mains like halloumi or battered sausages.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
