The latest rankings for the finest fish and chips establishments have been unveiled, and the great news is that they are scattered throughout the UK, making it highly likely that there is a superb fish and chip shop near your location.
Fish and chips have held a special place in British cuisine since the 19th century, serving as a convenient and affordable meal for the working class to mark the end of the workweek. As railways expanded accessibility to seaside resorts, this iconic dish also became a sought-after delight for day-trippers enjoying coastal visits, choosing fish and chips over traditional picnics.
In contemporary times, fish and chips remain deeply rooted in British culture, with takeaways nationwide competing annually for the prestigious title of the UK’s best fish and chip shop. The 2025 list of top chippies includes contenders from coastal destinations, rural regions, and major cities. I personally had the pleasure of visiting one of the winners from a couple of years ago, which has once again made the distinguished list.
The selection process will narrow down the list to 20, then to 10, before the ultimate winners are revealed at an awards ceremony in London in February 2026. Prizes will be presented in 14 categories, including recognitions for the best newcomer and exceptional contributions to the industry.
I fondly recall my visit to Knights Fish Restaurant in Glastonbury, which was honored as the Restaurant of the Year at the National Fish and Chip Shop Awards 2024 and has now earned a place on the list again. As I approached the quaint medieval building, the unmistakable aroma of a traditional chippy filled the air, enticing locals, tourists, and even notable personalities for over a century.
Aside from the convenience of takeaway orders, patrons can also opt to dine indoors. I settled near the cozy log burner and savored a generous portion of haddock, chips, and mushy peas. The quality of the food was exceptional, with succulent batter, non-greasy fish, and light, fluffy chips, making it a deserving top contender.
Exceptional fish and chips are sure to attract a following, particularly when located near one of the most renowned music festivals globally. Knights Fish Restaurant has welcomed the likes of Nicholas Cage, members of the Lightning Seeds, and Glastonbury organizer Michael Eavis, making it a hotspot for celebrity sightings.
While Knights Fish Restaurant emerged as a worthy winner, numerous outstanding fish and chip shops can be found across the UK. Did your local favorite make it to the rest of the list? The top chip shops span various regions including Bristol, Cornwall, County Durham, Devon, Essex, Greater Manchester, Hampshire, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, London, Merseyside, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Warwickshire, West Midlands, Yorkshire, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland.