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Inland Eateries Dominate UK's Top 50 Fish and Chip Shops, Beating Coastal Favorites
13 Nov
Summary
- Only 14 of the UK's 50 best fish and chip takeaways are located by the coast
- Locations in Leeds, Essex, and South East London make the prestigious Fry Awards list
- Judging criteria included food quality, cleanliness, staff expertise, and value for money

According to the 2025 Fry Awards, the UK's 50 best fish and chip takeaways have been announced, and the results may surprise many Brits. Contrary to the common belief that fish and chips taste best when served with a sea view, just 14 of the top 50 locations are actually situated by the coast.
The prestigious awards, now in their 13th year, followed months of judging during which mystery diners secretly assessed takeaways, restaurants, and mobile units on a range of criteria, including food quality, premises cleanliness, staff expertise, value for money, ease of ordering, and social media presence. Only the operators with the highest scores of 96% and above earned a spot on the list, with several even achieving the full 100%.
Surprisingly, inland eateries in places like Leeds, Essex, and South East London have claimed coveted positions, proving that exceptional fish and chips are not limited to seaside locations. These inland establishments have impressed the judges with their commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer service, challenging the long-held notion that the best fish and chips can only be found by the sea.
As the industry continues to adapt to the challenges of the past few years, these top-performing fish and chip shops have demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication to their craft. Their success serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved British staple, and a reminder that great food can be found in the most unexpected of places.




