Frequently voted Britain's favourite dish, fish and chips are the making of a great day out. First seen in London and in Oldham in the 1860s, there are almost as many variations as there are regions in the UK. So, whether you top yours with mushy peas, gravy, mayonnaise, curry sauce or ketchup, see our favourites from across the network.
FryDays, Gosport
This family run business is a firm favourite with the locals and has everything from your chip shop favourites to some stunning waterside views. Just a quick hop across the water from Portsmouth Harbour station on the Gosport Ferry, enjoy FryDays’ soft fluffy chips and flavoursome fishcakes while watching the boats sail past the Spinnaker Tower.
Fisherman’s Kitchen, Southsea
Ian and Gary set up trendy takeaway-restaurant The Fisherman’s Kitchen in 2017, and it’s gone from strength to strength. With their healthier take on fish and chips, as well as variety – including a divine Malaysian seafood curry – this is one not to miss. Just a mile away from Portsmouth and Southsea station, you can walk it in just over 20 minutes – or hop on the 3 or 23 bus if you’re really hungry!
Deep Blue, Lymington Town
Watching the sun set over Lymington Quay is the perfect way to end a day by the seaside. Add in top fish and chips from Deep Blue, just a 5-minute walk from Lymington Town station, and you’re all set. This might not be your traditional family run business, but they have a true focus on sustainability and their good reputation means you can’t go wrong. Coupled with this beautiful location, Deep Blue makes it onto our list.
Plaice on the Green, Bursledon
Not only does this chippy have a brilliant name, it has been providing the best quality food with a smile for over 20 years. This is another local gem and it’s just a 20-minute walk from Bursledon station. Enjoy their array of fritters, pies and classic fish dishes while sat alongside the River Hamble.
Lakeside, Poole
Now this fish supper comes with a view to admire. Looking straight out over Holes Bay, and with an upmarket vibe, Lakeside’s won “Dorset’s best fish and chip shop” several times. Barents Sea Cod is pride of the menu here, as well as line-caught Haddock. Plus, being located on Lifeboat Quay means it’s just 5 minutes’ walk from Poole station – ideal after a day at the beach.
Fish ‘n’ Fritz, Weymouth
Fish 'n' Fritz Restaurant | Image credit: James Linwood
A proper seaside chippy. Named one of the UK’s 10 Best Fish and Chip Restaurants, Fish 'n' Fritz's secret recipe for their batter is recognised as a national favourite. The team work hard to source the freshest ingredients – and it shows. Head to Market Street, 10 minutes from Weymouth station on foot. Make it a takeaway and eat it on Custom House Quay to admire the ships.
Chez Fred Fish and Chips, Westbourne
A favourite of Jools Holland, and even visited by Jack Black, Chez Fred was founded in 1989 by father-and-son team Peter and Fred Capel. Chefs hand-prepare sustainably sourced fish with their own-recipe batter for lightness. Queues can be out-the-door in the evening – so head early. Just a 20-minute walk from Branksome station will get you there. If you’re quick, you can make it back down to the beach while the chips are still hot.
