Fish and chips, a classic British pairing, is often considered the nation's favourite dish.
While enjoyed year-round, the staple is particularly popular during the warmer months, when Britons can enjoy it on beachfronts and in parks.
And with the Met Office predicting more intense and frequent heatwaves, fish and chip shops will likely be busier than ever as families descend on popular spots to enjoy summer staycations.
With around 10,500 fish and chip shops across the UK to date, GB News asked the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) which locations provide a must-try dish.
President of the NFFF, Andrew Crook, stated: "Our fish and chip industry is a very strong community of businesses all working hard to ensure their customers enjoy the best quality food, with every outlet offering a unique twist and a dash of difference to their menu.
"Whether it's a weekend away or staycation, neither would be complete without indulging in a portion (or two) of our great British staple, and there are so many fish and chip shops to choose from."
Here, Andrew gives his recommendations on where to find great fish and chips in some of the country's most beloved holiday destinations.
Colmans Fish and Chips
|Colmans Fish and Chips has been serving its customers for more than 100 years
East Yorkshire Coast
"Starting with the East Yorkshire coast, here lie some wonderful destinations, with Whitby being one of the most iconic – synonymous with both Count Dracula and delicious fish and chips!
"So, if you're planning a trip here this summer and you're looking for something a little indulgent, then there are plenty to enjoy, including Trenchers, Magpie Cafe, Hadley's Fish and Chips, plus Royal Fisheries, which serves up its very own crinkle chips."
North East of England
"Further north up the coast is the picturesque seaside town of South Shields. A little off the beaten track, but for those who are choosing a breakaway to the heart of the Northeast or heading up to Northumberland, this is the idyllic spot to grab some fish and chips.
"There's a great place called Colmans Fish and Chips, which has been serving its customers for more than 100 years – a testament to the quality of food and service this restaurant has been dishing up.
"You will also find in the North east, a gem of a restaurant – Bells Fish and Chips – which scooped Restaurant of the Year at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025.
"Situated in the stunning historic city of Durham, Bells offers this classic dish cooked the 'old-fashioned way'."
Facebook/Colmans Fish and Chips
|Enjoy a small fish and chips with a pot of tea for £12.50 (Monday to Friday, 3-5pm)
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Scotland
"Heading even further north into Scotland, you'll find the town of Largs, which is often referred to by its locals as Scotland's Costa del Sol. Boasting beach bars, ice cream parlours, and amusement arcades down its coastline, you will also find The Fishworks.
"The Fishworks has previously been honoured at the National Fish & Chip Awards for its "highest standard in fish and chips", and it's definitely worth a visit.
"Another excellent choice is The Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum, Perthshire, which makes a wonderful pit stop when touring this beautiful part of the country."
South Coast of the UK
"If the South coast of the UK has more appeal, then Bournemouth is a top destination, and in particular, the family-run business Chez Fred.
"Not only does its menu offer some of the best dishes in town, but as it's only located minutes away from West Cliff and nearby beaches, it provides a stunning setting to enjoy a chippy lunch or tea.
"Yet, it's not just the coastal settings that help create the perfect fish and chip experience. Glastonbury in Southwest England is where visitors will find history and nature in abundance – not to mention one of the UK's best music festivals.
"It's also home to the award-winning Knights Fish Restaurant, which won Restaurant of the Year at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2024.
"So, wherever you are this summer, there are so many fantastic fish and chip shops, you will no doubt find the ideal spot where you can enjoy a delicious portion of our nation's finest cuisine."
Full list of must-visit UK fish and chip shops
- Trenchers
- Magpie Cafe
- Hadley's Fish and Chips
- Royal Fisheries
- Colmans Fish and Chips
- Bells Fish and Chips
- The Fishworks
- The Real Food Cafe
- Chez Fred
- Knights Fish Restaurant
Need more inspo? For 40 of the UK's best fish and chip spots as recognised by the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025, click here.