Is there anything better than chowing down on freshly battered fish and chips on a hot, sunny day? Made even better if you happen to be at the seaside too!
With more of us choosing to holiday at home, a staycation is all about the little treats – taking the train for a great day out and enjoying the tastiest food with friends and family. And really, is there a more feel-good food than fish and chips? Flaky white fish in a crispy batter, thick fluffy chips and magnificent mushy peas, all doused in salt and vinegar – yum!
Love Seafood is on a mission to inspire the nation to fall in love with seafood so we’ve partnered with them on this guide to unveil some of the best fish and chip shops near our train stations – offering you a bit of delicious inspiration for your next Scottish adventure.
Edinburgh Waverley – Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips, 9 Victoria Street, Edinburgh
Just an eight-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley, Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips offers both dine in and takeaway options. Occupying the old St John’s Church on Victoria Street, the restaurant is stunning and with a capacity of 300, it might just be Scotland’s biggest fish and chip shop! Despite only opening in 2019, Bertie’s has built a reputation for impeccable fish and chips, and has even notched up a national award.
The fish menu focuses on the classics done well, with sustainable haddock and cod both available. They also might have the most sides we’ve ever seen, with nearly 20 different options to choose from.
Glasgow Queen Street or High Street station – Merchant Chippy, 155 High Street, Glasgow
Those in the know, know the Merchant Chippy. A 10-minute walk from Queen Street, or one minute from High Street, The Merchant Chippy has a fanatical fanbase. A multi-award winner, this traditional fish and chip shop has previously been named the best in Scotland. Here you’ll find the favourites like cod and haddock in amongst the likes of seabass, wholetail scampi, calamari and more, all sourced daily from Anstruther.
You only need to glance at the glowing customer reviews to understand that this shop is a must visit if you’re exploring Glasgow or looking to fuel up before you hop on a train elsewhere.
Stonehaven – The Bay Fish & Chips, Beach Rd, Stonehaven
Probably Scotland’s most famous fish and chip shop, The Bay needs no introduction. A multi-award winning business and former best fish and chip shop in the UK, The Bay has been serving the people of Stonehaven since 2006. Sustainability is top of the agenda here - the shop runs entirely on renewable energy and doesn’t use any single-use plastics.
All fish comes from fully sustainable MSC certified stocks and the specials board always shows the catch of the day, chosen from the freshest fish straight from the market that morning.
Dundee - The Tailend, 81 Nethergate, Dundee
There are plenty of options for a chipper in Dundee, but The Tailend is extra special. A multi award-winning fish and chip shop that’s popular with both locals and tourists alike. It’s perfect for day trippers, situated just a seven minute walk from Dundee train station.
The Tailend is owned by G & A Spink Fish Merchants of Arbroath who supply all the fish fresh daily. Expect to see hake, halibut, langoustine, lobster, plaice, lemon sole, cod and monkfish to name a few. If that’s not enough to tempt you, take a look at their Instagram page and try not to get hungry! They’ll also soon be adding a new outdoor area for those looking to soak up the Scottish sun. For those on a budget, kids eat free every Sunday.
Largs – The Fish Works, 3, the Promenade, Largs
Husband and wife team, Tiffany and Ross Irvin, own and operate The Fish Works , another award-winning fish and chip shop offering fresh, quality Scottish seafood, which can be enjoyed with a wonderful view over the Firth of Clyde. Just a stone’s throw from Largs station, The Fish Works is hugely popular with those heading back from a trip to Cumbrae.
The Fish Works is dedicated to protecting the environment, and their passionate team work extremely hard to ensure everything from their packaging and menu, to community support is done as environmentally-consciously as possible. The menu is a fish and chip lovers dream, with plenty of options available including smoked haddock and panko lemon sole. They also cater for those looking for a gluten free option.
So there you have it, when you’re planning your next summer adventure, why not plan a trip to one of these tip top fish and chip shops for the ultimate side to your summer fun.