Fish and chips is undoubtedly considered one of the UK’s most iconic culinary traditions, with tourists flocking from all corners of the world to sample the classic combo.
As thousands head to the coast over the summer, and for many, no trip will be complete without a generous portion of battered, flaky cod and golden chunky chips drenched in salt and tangy vinegar.
Fish and chip shops are estimated to serve a staggering 380 million meals across the nation each year – but which seaside town tops the list as the UK’s fish and chip capital?
A study has unveiled 20 of the leading locations by anaylsing the number of fish and chip shops in each local authority area and using those figures to calculate the number of establishments per 100,000 residents.
Ranking as the UK’s fish and chip capital is Scarborough, with a whopping 85.35 chippies per 100,000 residents – the equivalent of one chip shop for nearly every 1,200 residents.
This traditional seaside town has long drawn visitors with its picturesque harbour, sandy beaches and, with the fresh North Sea catch on its doorstep, an endless supply of tasty fish and chip offerings.
East Lindsey follows in second place with 62.26 fish and chip establishments per 100,000 people – akin to roughly one chippy for every one or two miles of its sprawling 70km coastline, which is home to bustling seaside towns like Skegness.
The popular seaside resort of Blackpool unsurprisingly ranks third, with 59.59 chip shops per 100,000 residents.
Fish and chip shops are estimated to serve a staggering 380 million meals across the nation each year – but which seaside town tops the list as the UK’s fish and chip capital?
Ranking as the UK’s fish and chip capital is Scarborough, with a whopping 85.35 chippies per 100,000 residents
Known for its iconic tower, picturesque pier and striking illuminations, its traditional seaside fare, such as rock candy and fish and chips, only further shapes its identity as one of the most quintessential British resorts.
Hastings, renowned for its historical significance and being home to the oldest beach-based fishing fleet, ranks a close fourth, with 59.37 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents.
The town’s rich maritime heritage and local fishing industry is to thank for the extensive number of chippies offering fresh and locally caught fish.
In fifth place is Great Yarmouth, which is home to 57.92 fish and chip shops per 100,000 people.
The town was once the centre of the global herring trade, and with fish locally sourced straight from the quay, its love for seafood runs deep, which can only spell good news to the 5 million hungry tourists visiting each year.
Ranking sixth is Gwynedd, Wales’ first entry on the list, with 57.23 chip shops per 100,000 residents, while Lancashire’s Rossendale is the first non-coastal spot featured in the top ten in seventh place, with 47.99 chippies per 100,000 people.
Markku Kanerva, a spokesperson for Suomikasinot, who conducted the survey, said: ‘Fish and chip shops continue to be a cornerstone of community life throughout the UK, from Scarborough’s historic coastline to Blackpool’s busy promenade.
‘However, this rich heritage is under threat, with almost half of UK chippies at risk of closing by the end of 2025.
The popular seaside resort of Blackpool unsurprisingly ranks third, with 59.59 chip shops per 100,000 residents
Hastings, renowned for its historical significance and being home to the oldest beach-based fishing fleet, ranks a close fourth with 59.37 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents
‘We’re seeing traditional chip shops facing unprecedented challenges. With 62 per cent of these businesses being family-run, each closure represents not just an economic loss, but the end of skills and traditions passed down through generations.’
She added: ‘The average price of fish and chips is now reaching £15 or more in some areas and so affordability has become a major issue for many consumers.
‘Energy costs and food inflation have put significant pressure on shop owners, with potato prices particularly affected by poor harvests.
She further warned: ‘If we don’t support our local chip shops now, we risk losing a beloved part of British culture that has brought communities together for centuries.’
