Known across the land as ‘God’s Own Country’, Yorkshire is sure to make you drop your jaw with its dramatic scenery, epic coastline, and historic sites.
But while yes, the UK’s largest county is also a beautiful one, we’re not here today to discuss the stunning scenery (well, not entirely at least). Today, we’d like to talk to you about one of the nation's most beloved dishes, fish and chips.
Fresh flaky fish fried to perfection and served with robust yet fluffy chips and a generous serving of mushy peas - truly, is there anything better? In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best spots in Yorkshire for the ultimate chippy tea…
Trenchers, Whitby
New Quay Road, Whitby YO21 1DH
A picturesque seaside town, Whitby is a popular spot on the east coast of North Yorkshire. It’s famed for its historic landmarks, historic harbour, and Whitby Sands and it’s one of the best spots in the country for fish and chips - the perfect fuel for scaling the 199 steps that link the Old Town and St Mary’s Church.
But with no shortage of fish and chip shops, where to go? Our pick is Trenchers, a well-established chippy that’s been serving up the goods for decades with thousands of happy customers. Pick from all the classics, or go for something light like a seafood salad, it's the perfect place to tuck into a chippy tea. You can choose to eat inside, or get a takeaway and enjoy it outside by the nearby harbour.
Afterwards, take a trip to Whitby Abbey. This Yorkshire landmark has attracted visitors for some 1,500 years with its tales of poets, saints, and even vampires. Explore the towering Gothic ruins and take in the sweeping sea views.
The Chippie, Hawes
Market Place, Hawes DL8 3QX
Nestled in a patchwork of fields in the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales, you’ll find the town of Hawes. Famed as the home of Wensleydale cheese (still made at Wensleydale Creamery), it’s also home to an excellent fish and chip shop: The Chippie.
On the menu, you’ll find all the trappings of a good fish and chip shop including the choice of cod or haddock, along with fishcakes, scampi, and jumbo sausages. Our top tip? Ask for a side of fried Wensleydale cheese. You won’t regret it.
Operating as a takeaway and a café, you can choose to eat inside at one of the cosy pine booths. It’s open throughout the year, including on bank holiday Mondays and with reduced hours in winter, making it a great option whenever your next Yorkshire trip is.
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Yorkshire, there is plenty to do in Hawes once you’ve filled up. Why not head to Hardraw Force, the highest single-drop waterfall in England for a breathtaking leg stretch.
Inghams Fish Restaurant, Filey
38 Belle Vue Street, Filey YO14 9HY
With an impressive stretch of beach inviting you to make the most of the captivating coastline, Filey is a fantastic base for a holiday to Yorkshire. And just up from the beach, you’ll find Ingham’s Fish Restaurant where you can sit in or enjoy a takeaway service.
We’d opt for a takeaway cod and chips and eat on the benches overlooking the sea, a truly wonderful way to enjoy the nation’s favourite dish. And if curry sauce is your thing, Inghams is popular for its fruity version.
Afterwards, head down to Filey Beach and take a stroll. The Bempton end of the beach boasts a RSPB nature reserve that’s popular with birchwatchers, plus it’s lined with rockpools at low tide perfect for little explorers.
Alternatively, take a stroll along the promenade or step onto the famous Cleveland Way coastal walk. If that whets your appetite for a Yorkshire coast trip, check out more of the best beaches in Yorkshire and discover a world of sandy havens and hidden coves.
Drakes, York
97 Low Petergate, York YO1 7HY
A walled city with Roman roots and a Viking past, York is home to a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, and Shambles, one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. Whether you stay in the city, or pop in for a day trip, why not treat yourself to a fish and chip supper while you're there? And there's no better spot than Drakes.
One of the city's most longstanding family-run fish and chip shops, Drakes has been offering up lip-smacking feasts for decades. Located in the heart of the city beneath the famous Minster, it's the perfect city centre spot for fueling up on fish and chips.
Speaking of, the chips are made from Maris Pipers and Saggitas grown in Yorkshire and the fish comes from Cross of York Fishmongers, whose fish are used regularly on MasterChef. Everything is fried in beef dripping and there are gluten-free options available.
Afterwards, there are plenty of things to do in York; explore the JORVIK Viking Centre or National Railway Museum, or pop into the York Art Gallery whose collection spans more than 600 years of art. Keen on culture? There are plenty of other art galleries in Yorkshire to see during your visit.
Capplemans Pickering, Pickering
11 Market Place, Pickering YO18 7AA
Sat on the edge of the North York Moors you'll find the charming market town of Pickering. It's a great spot to stomp around the moors and explore the Yorkshire coastline before tucking into some delicious fish and chips from Capplemans Pickering.
Alongside the usual deep-fried fare, a dedicated vegan menu is packed with tempting treats including fishless fingers, battered mushrooms, and vegan sausage. You'll also find a gluten-free menu with fish, scampi, sausage, chips and sauces. Make the most of the online order system and order your food in advance, perfect for a post-walk feast you can collect on your way home.
Winking Willy's Famous Fish & Chip Shop, Scarborough
9-10 Sandside, Scarborough YO11 1PE
Scarborough is the epitome of coastal towns, boasting two sandy bays and plenty of opportunities for a truly traditional fish and chips overlooking the North Sea.
Here, make a beeline for Winking Willy's, a superb fish and chip restaurant that is totally committed to supporting the Scarborough Fishing Industry. All the fish cooked here is bought directly from the fish market opposite, promising the likes of cod, haddock, plaice, skate, monkfish and lemon sole depending on what's been caught that day. We love the chunky monkey - a Scarborough delicacy of monkfish, chips, and tartare sauce. Then to drink, it's got to be a pot of Yorkshire tea.
Afterwards, head to Scarborough Open Air Theatre and catch a show. The 8,000-strong arena has hosted an array of incredible performers over the years, from Elton John to Britney Spears! Not a music fan? No worries - there are plenty more things to do in Yorkshire, including the fascinating ruins of Scarborough Castle, which overlook the reaching bays.
Harrogate Fisheries, Harrogate
141 Skipton Road, Harrogate HG1 4LJ
If you're in the stylish spa town of Harrogate, a stone's throw from the Yorkshire Dales National Park, you'll have plenty to keep you busy. With rows of independent shops, the Royal Pump Room Museum, and a collection of spas to choose from, it would be easy to forget about dinner.
When a chorus of hungry tums signals the time for food, head to Harrogate Fisheries for a traditional Yorkshire fish and chips fried in beef dripping. If you're staying nearby at one of our beautiful Harrogate cottages, you can even get your fish and chips delivered. Whatever you do, get a portion of the tartare sauce as it's homemade and jam-packed with flavour. If they have their deep-fried creme eggs on the menu when you’re in, do yourself a favour and order one of those too.
Excelsior Fisheries, Staithes
4 Staithes Lane, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5AJ
If you love a classic fishing village, you’re sure to love Staithes. Once a busy fishing port, the quaint streets and chocolate-box cottages take those who wander by to times gone by. Said to be the place where British explorer Captain James Cook fell in love with the sea, it’s easy to see why.
Once you’ve had your fill of maritime history, take a stroll up to Excelsior Fisheries. Go for the haddock and chips for a traditional experience, or if you’re feeling adventurous order a fish finger butty with homemade tartare sauce.
Famed for its gorgeous bluebells, it’s only a half-hour drive to Roseberry Topping, offering you the perfect place to soak up some views after your toothsome feast. And if you like woodland walks, Yorkshire has plenty of them.
Queens Drive Fish and Chips, Ossett
123-125 Queen's Drive, Ossett WF5 0NH
With a rich mining history, the market town of Ossett in West Yorkshire is a great spot for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Peak District National Park. It also makes a good base for day trips to the vibrant cities of York and Leeds.
For the best fish and chips in town, head to Queens Drive Fish and Chips. The recently remodelled eatery features chic panelling and brass overhead lighting, with comfy leather bench seating and plenty of tables. The joint is run by Richard and Dave, who started as prep boys 25 years ago at 'Kingfisher' and now run this flourishing fish and chip shop with passion and pride.
The team here is big on sustainability and will only source and sell wild-caught fish from well-managed waters. Pick from classics like haddock and chips or a battered sausage, or opt for wholetail Whitby scampi, scallops or a spam fritter for something a little different.
The Fisherman, Settle
16 Church Street, Yorkshire Dales National Park, Settle BD24 9JE
Tucked into the glorious Yorkshire Dales, the buzzing market town of Settle is a charming spot to stop for a bit of shopping - the traditional Tuesday market is great for picking up local produce and artisan goods.
Whatever you do, be sure to stay for tea! Our pick? The Fisherman. The portions are generous with all the classic fish and chip combinations on the menu, the puddings are exceptional too.
Afterwards, why not take a walk through the Yorkshire Dales? It’s home to breathtakingly good scenery, castles, and abbeys - it’s no wonder it made the list of our most romantic places in the UK.
Magpie Café, Whitby
14 Pier Road, Whitby YO21 3PU
It wouldn’t be a list of the top fish and chips in Yorkshire (or even the UK) without mentioning Magpie Café in Whitby. Perched high above the harbour, this beloved fish restaurant can often be spotted thanks to the tell-tale queue of visitors outside.
The menu covers all your usual favourites, with mouth-watering additions like seafood chowder and Whitby crab pâté offering something a little different and totally delicious. You’ll also find a lip-smacking selection of puddings, creating a well-rounded feast with something for everyone.
Fancy fish and chips in Yorkshire? Explore our collection of holiday cottages in Yorkshire and start planning your next adventure in this beautiful county.
