Twenty Twenty Vision!

National Fish & Chip Awards puts 20 top takeaways on the map

The National Fish & Chip Awards - with Seafood from Norway as principal sponsor - has announced the UK’s 20 semi-finalist chippies for its coveted Takeaway of the Year title, which celebrates the nation’s finest fish and chip businesses.

And, to mark the announcement, the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), organiser of the awards and standard bearer for the sector, has released a map highlighting the 20 contenders across the UK, making it easier than ever for fish and chip fans to find their nearest shortlisted takeaway. Explore the interactive map to discover the semi-finalists.

As the industry’s official awards, the National Fish & Chip Awards recognise and reward excellence. It’s free to enter, and participants face thorough vetting to ensure those shortlisted meet the sector’s demanding standards.

Reaching this stage is an outstanding achievement but there’s still plenty more to come for the semi-finalists. In the next round, the panel of experts will assess every aspect of their businesses, scoring them on product knowledge, sourcing, ingredient preparation, food hygiene and customer service, while also looking at their commitment to representing Britain’s much-loved takeaway.

The National Federation of Fish Friers’ President Andrew Crook says: “Whittling down the longlist of 40 to our Takeaway of the Year top 20 has been a very difficult task. Every one of them brings their own unique qualities, strengths and something extra special to the table.

“The judging process is incredibly detailed and appraises every element of what makes an exceptional fish and chip business. To deliver across all these areas to the standard demonstrated by these chippies deserves to be shouted about. They should all be immensely proud of what they have achieved and we’re calling on communities to keep supporting small independent businesses.

“All those who make it through each stage of the competition are setting the benchmark for what can be achieved through passion, commitment and the determination to do things to the highest possible standards. They are helping to pass the baton of excellence to the next generation and setting the standard for others to follow.

“Our top 20 are inspiring examples of that in action, and we very much look forward to celebrating their achievements as we progress through the competition and on to the next round.”

Backing the very best in the business, this year’s Takeaway of the Year category is proudly sponsored by BD Signs, Friars Pride, Henry Colbeck, McWhinney’s Sausages, Seafood from Iceland, Smales and V.A. Whitley . Their ongoing support plays a vital role in elevating the industry’s achievements, raising standards and inspiring fish and chip shops to thrive.

The 20 fish and chip takeaways earning national recognition are:

Bristol

Jolly Fryer

Dorset

Somewhere Else Fishy, Sherborne

Essex

The Hook of Halstead

Greater Manchester

Taylors, Stockport

Hampshire

Mike’s Traditional Fish and Chips, Eastleigh

Lancashire

The Cottage, Blackpool

Lincolnshire

Catch 22, Tattershall

Linfords Fish and Chips, Market Deeping

Merseyside

The Good Catch (Freshfield), Liverpool

Nottinghamshire

Angell’s Fisheries, Newark

Oxfordshire

Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co., Oxford

Somerset

Knights Fish Restaurant, Glastonbury

Surrey

The Hake, Weybridge

Yorkshire

The Fish Bank, Sherburn-in-Elmet

Scotland

Aberdeenshire

Garioch Fish Bar, Inverurie

Ayrshire

The Fish Works, Largs

Inverness-shire

Hilton Chip Shop, Inverness

Monster Fish & Chips Co., Fort Augustus

Wales

Powys

Hennighan's Fish & Chips Bottom Shop, Machynlleth

Vale of Glamorgan

Farnhams Fish and Chips (Boverton), Llantwit Major

The final 10 chippies will be revealed in December, ahead of the awards ceremony on 24 February at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, where the new winner will take centre stage as Takeaway of the Year. 

Sponsor quotes

“Reaching the top 20 is a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the dedication, expertise and high standards that these businesses bring to the fish and chip industry. Great fish and chips start long before they reach the fryer, with quality seafood, thoughtful sourcing and a genuine understanding of the ingredients that make this British classic so special. 

“At Seafood from Iceland, we believe that exceptional seafood deserves exceptional craftsmanship, and it is inspiring to see businesses that share this commitment being recognised. Congratulations to all 20 semi-finalists on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to following their journey as the competition moves towards the final.” Björgvin Þór Björgvinsson, Project Manager for Seafood from Iceland

“Being recognised in the National Fish & Chip Awards can be a real gamechanger for a business. Reaching the top 20 is a fantastic achievement in itself, shining a spotlight on the hard work, passion and commitment that goes into running an outstanding fish and chip shop. For the businesses involved, that recognition can help raise their profile, attract new customers and build even greater loyalty within their local communities.

“Winning the title of Takeaway of the Year can take those opportunities even further, putting a business on the national stage and opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships and future growth. These awards are about more than celebrating success today; they can help create a lasting legacy for a business and inspire the next chapter of its journey. At BD Signs, we’re proud to support an initiative that champions excellence, recognises ambition and helps independent businesses reach their full potential.” Barry Dickman, director and founder of BDSigns & BDigital

“Congratulations to all top 20 shops who have earned their place in this year’s Takeaway of the Year competition. The standard across the fish and chip industry continues to rise, and it's fantastic to see businesses being recognised for their dedication to quality, customer service and innovation. As a long-standing supporter of the trade, Friars Pride is proud to sponsor the National Fish & Chip Awards and celebrate the hard work, passion and professionalism that these operators demonstrate every day. We wish all 20 shops the very best of luck as they progress through the next stage of the competition.” Luke Townsend, marketing manager at Friars Pride 

“Behind every takeaway on this shortlist is a team whose expertise and hard work deserve national recognition. From the decisions made about sourcing to the care taken in preparation and the standards maintained throughout a busy service, there is an enormous amount that customers never see. Reaching the top 20 is a credit to the people responsible for that work. At Henry Colbeck, we’re proud to support awards that give those teams the recognition they deserve and help more people discover the outstanding businesses in our industry. Congratulations to all 20 semi-finalists.” Darren Anderson, Marketing Manager at Henry Colbeck

“As the competition draws nearer, McWhinney’s Sausages remains proud of the tenacity shown by the industry in the face of the challenges the last few years have presented. The dedication to quality remains a cornerstone of our business and we are delighted that the so many shops share our ethos of only serving the very best to their valued customers.” Scott McWhinney, sales and marketing director at McWhinney’s Sausages

“Reaching the top 20 in Takeaway of the Year as part of the official National Fish & Chip Awards is a fantastic achievement and everyone at V.A. Whitley would like to congratulate the businesses that have made it through to this stage.

“The standard within the fish and chip industry continues to impress, and narrowing such a strong group of friers down from 40 to 20 is no easy task. These businesses should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved so far.

“As a longstanding supplier to the fish and chip trade, V.A. Whitley is extremely proud to sponsor this prestigious category and to support an awards programme that celebrates the passion, commitment and high standards that keep our industry moving forward. We wish all of the top 20 the very best of luck for the next stage and look forward to seeing who progresses further in the competition.” Robert Fernandes, Marketing Manager at V.A. Whitley

“Congratulations to all 20 semi-finalists on reaching this stage of the National Fish & Chip Awards. Being recognised among the UK's top fish and chip businesses is a significant achievement and reflects a commitment to quality, consistency and delivering a great experience for customers.

“Fish and chips remain one of the nation's most loved meals, and the businesses recognised this year continue to showcase the very best of the sector. Their dedication to sourcing quality seafood and maintaining high standards helps ensure the industry remains strong and relevant for future generations.

“Seafood from Norway is proud to support the National Fish & Chip Awards and the wider fish and chip industry. We wish all the semi-finalists the very best as the competition progresses and look forward to celebrating their achievements in the months ahead.” Bjørn-Erik Stabell, UK Director of the Norwegian Seafood Council

For more information and bits on the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.thefishandchipawards.com.

The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) is the organiser of the National Fish & Chip Awards and 2027 marks the 39^th edition. It is open to the UK’s 9,000 fish and chip businesses, with overseas operators welcome to enter the international category. As it’s run by the industry’s association, the expert guidance offered to entrants is of an exceptional level. In-depth scrutiny within the judging process covers every aspect of businesses – food, hygiene, sustainability (produce and operational practices), customer service, and industry knowledge. This ensures the nation receives high-quality food and an overall standout experience, while professionals in the industry have access to opportunities to further their growth.

The awards also recognise fish and chip shops which are investing in their communities, making a difference to the environment around them, boosting the local economy and employment opportunities. Seafood from Norway  is the principal sponsor for the 2027 awards.

About BDSigns & BDigital:

With over 30 years of experience in the signage and branding industry, we pride ourselves on being a market leader in helping businesses stand out from the competition. Our philosophy is simple: “If you can dream it, we can build it!”

We offer a comprehensive range of signage, branding and digital solutions to help bring your business and brand to life. From eye-catching exterior and interior signs, window graphics, PVC banners, labels and stickers, health and safety signs, through to animated digital menus, menu systems and graphics, wall vinyls, window decals and vinyl wraps, we have the expertise and equipment to deliver solutions to suit businesses of all sizes.

We also produce branded clothing, neon signs, projection signs, hand-painted signs, foam signs, counter branding and café barriers, giving you everything you need to create a strong and consistent visual identity for your business.

Our services don't stop at traditional signage. We can also help you establish and grow your digital presence with website design and online ordering systems. Every one of our digital customers also receives free social media templates, helping you maintain a professional and consistent brand across your social media channels.

We believe every business is different, which is why every design is produced in consultation with you. Our experienced design team takes the time to understand your business, your brand and what you want to achieve. We work closely with you throughout the design process, making adjustments and refining ideas until you are completely happy with the final look.

Whether you're starting a new business, refreshing an existing brand, upgrading your premises or looking for a complete signage and digital solution, BD Signs has the experience, creativity and expertise to make it happen. From your initial idea to the finished product, we bring your vision to life. Visit www.bdsigns.co.uk or www.bdigital.co.uk.

About Friars Pride:

Friars Pride is an independent, family-owned business that has proudly supported the fish and chip industry since 1898. We supply a comprehensive range of quality fish, frying oils and fats, frozen foods, packaging and catering essentials to fish and chip shops and takeaway businesses across the UK.

As an industry specialist, we are passionate about helping our customers succeed. Alongside an extensive product range featuring leading brands and trusted own-label solutions, we provide expert advice, business support and outstanding customer service through our network of depots and experienced sales teams.

We remain committed to supporting the long-term future of the fish and chip trade, championing innovation, sustainability and the next generation of industry talent.

For more information, visit Friars Pride.

About Henry Colbeck:

Founded in 1893, Henry Colbeck is the UK’s oldest independent supplier dedicated to the fish and chip industry. Still family-owned and family-managed, the business combines more than 130 years of experience with a focus on helping shops succeed today and grow for the future. Its range spans frozen-at-sea fish, frying oils, batter flours, frozen foods, packaging and cleaning essentials, supported by reliable service and practical advice. From traditional favourites to new menu ideas, Henry Colbeck offers operators quality, choice and excellent customer service. Find out more: www.colbeck.co.uk.

About McWhinney’s Sausages:

McWhinney's Sausages traces its roots back to a butcher's shop in 1898, where the recipe that is known and loved to this day was born. Now in its sixth generation, McWhinney's continues to emphasise the importance of quality above all else to ensure a consistent and delicious sausage every time. www.mcwhinneys.com.

About the Norwegian Seafood Council: 

The Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) works with the Norwegian seafood industry and local partners to develop markets for Norwegian seafood. The NSC is headquartered in Tromsø and maintains local representatives in Norway's most important international markets. The “Seafood from Norway” mark of origin is a symbol of origin for all Norwegian seafood. To learn more about Norway’s unique location, diverse seafood, generations of experience, and industry-leading sustainable fishing techniques, go to: www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk  

About Seafood from Iceland:

Seafood from Iceland was founded in 2019. It is a platform for Icelandic fisheries companies to work together on marketing under one brand of origin to maximize the value of the products. The project's main objective is to increase the export value by raising awareness and improving consumers' attitudes toward Icelandic seafood.

For centuries, Iceland and the UK have shared a strong fish trade. Today, frozen-at-sea cod and haddock fillets are among Iceland's top exports to the UK, celebrated for their premium quality, sustainability, and taste.

Seafood from Iceland is proud to sponsor the "Takeaway of the Year" award and collaborate with the fish and chip industry to raise consumer awareness of sustainably sourced Icelandic seafood.

About Smales:

Since 1937 we have been supplying the UK’s fish fryers and caterers with quality fish and seafood. Today we remain a family-owned business, renowned for reliability and the consistent quality of our sustainably sourced fish and seafood. We bring value for money, tradition and innovation to the nation’s table working with elite suppliers from around the globe. https://smales.co.uk/ 

About V.A. Whitley:

V.A.Whitley is the premier supplier to the fish and chip and fast-food trade in the North West of England, North Midlands and North and Mid-Wales. 

Founded in 1899, proudly serving the Fish and Chip trade for over 125 years, we remain an independent family company enjoying fourth generation involvement within our management structure. Throughout our history, we have sought to emulate the high standards set by our founder, providing customers with quality products at competitive prices whilst maintaining excellent levels of service.  

Today we offer you a range of products designed to provide your business with ‘one-stop’ supply. Our full range of dried goods, packaging and catering equipment has been complemented by a broad range of top quality-frozen fish, pies and foods.