A REALLY COD TIME WAS HAD THIS GOOD FRY-DAY

A really cod time was had this Good Fry-day. For many across the UK, ending the week with a traditional “chippy tea” is more than a comforting ritual—it’s a cultural staple. And on Good Friday, this beloved tradition took on special significance, as fish and chips become the dish of choice for millions.

But why is fish the go-to on Good Friday? The roots of this custom trace back to Roman Catholic traditions, which encourage abstaining from warm-blooded meat on Fridays as a way to honour Jesus’ crucifixion. While it’s not a biblical requirement, many Christians continue this practice as a symbolic gesture on Good Friday, the day commemorating Christ’s sacrifice.

To mark the occasion, the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) has unveiled a new map showcasing the Top 40 Fish and Chip Takeaways in the UK, as recognised by the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards.

Andrew Crook, NFFF president and awards organiser, explained:

“Good Friday is one of the busiest days of the year for fish and chip shops, with hundreds of customers eager to enjoy this holiday classic. Making the Top 40 list is a huge achievement—each takeaway has gone through a thorough judging process by industry experts and consistently delivers high-quality fish and chips. If you’re lucky enough to live near one, it’s definitely worth a visit.”

Here’s what some of the standout shops had to say on Good Friday 2025:

Norfolk

French’s Fish Shop, Wells-next-the-Sea

“We always plan for a busy Easter weekend—especially by the coast. It’s been a great start, and we’re grateful to our team for handling the rush so well.”
– Alanna French

Essex

Hook of Clacton, Clacton-on-Sea

“We’ve had a constant flow of customers today—it’s been amazing seeing so many familiar faces.”
– Alex Garcia

Bristol

Noah’s

“Good Friday is always hectic, but we’ve had fantastic produce coming in from the south coast. We’re excited to show guests just how good seafood can be.”
– Dan Rosser, chef/owner

Tyne and Wear

Trenchers Spanish City, North Tyneside

“Non-stop queues all day. A huge thank you to both our team and our loyal customers!”
– Chris Marsh, General Manager

Yorkshire

Whitby’s Fish & Chip Restaurant, Doncaster

“People were queuing from midday—it’s been a very busy lunch, and we expect the evening to be just as lively.”
– Kelley Asbridge

Time and Plaice, Doncaster

“Easter, especially Good Friday, brought in a great trade.”
– Danny Robinson

Devon

Alan’s Fish & Chips, Cullompton

“We had queues out the door and even delivered 50 meals to a community lunch. Sharing this tradition really brings people together.”
– Felicity Whitehead

Hampshire

Mike’s Traditional Fish and Chips, Eastleigh

“A local care home ordered 30 meals after their kitchen closed. It’s been a record lunch, and we’re braced for a busy evening!”
– Mike Isaac, Owner

London

Brockley’s Rock, Brockley

“The buzz, the queues—everything we love about Easter Fry-day. Thanks to all our amazing customers for making it special!”
– Kyriacos Karoulla, Owner
Image credit: Andreas Anastasis

Scotland

Perthshire – McKays, Pitlochry

“It’s been a brilliant Easter Fry-day with a warm welcome to all. Locals and tourists alike made it a day to remember.”
– Delia Keating

Aberdeenshire – Garioch Fish Bar, Inverurie

“The line’s been out the door, thanks to the Fish & Chip Awards map. We’re proud to be named among the top 20 in the UK. Happy Easter from all of us!”
– Murray Morrison

Sea Salt + Sole, Aberdeen

“Good Friday was full-on. It may be a bigger holiday down south, but we stayed just as busy!”
– Gillian Pirie

North Ayrshire – The Fish Works, Largs

“The weather wasn’t perfect, but that didn’t slow the queues. Thanks to our app and website, Click & Collect and deliveries kept things moving. Happy Good Friday!”
– Tiffany Irvine, Co-owner

So whether you’re planning a seaside visit or just craving the crispy goodness of a proper chippy tea, these 40 fish and chip shops are serving up the best of British tradition this Easter season.