There are an estimated 10,500 fish and chip shops across the UK, serving up as many as 167 million meals every year. But with so many chippies to choose from, the experience can vary dramatically from one shop to the next.

One might pile on the batter, while another takes a more restrained approach. One could hand you a bag of soggy chips; another might nail that elusive combination of crisp edges and fluffy centres. So, where can you find the very best?

That’s where the National Fish & Chip Awards come in. Designed to celebrate the country’s top chippies, the awards have now unveiled their longlist for 2027.

Forty fish and chip shops from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have made the cut, putting them in the running to be crowned among the nation’s best takeaways. But there’s still a way to go. Each will face another rigorous round of judging, with an expert panel assessing far more than the taste of their fish and chips.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which runs the awards, said: "As we celebrate the 39th year of the National Fish & Chip Awards, it’s brilliant to see talent, passion, excellent professionalism and dedication to their craft on display.

"Recognition like this is about far more than trophies – it’s about acknowledging the individuals who go above and beyond for their customers and communities every single day."

The Fish Works, Largs