Fish and chips – it’s the UK’s favourite dish, and Durham knows how to do it right! If you’re searching for the very best fish and chips in Durham, you’re in luck. Get ready to dig into some of the crispiest fish, fluffiest chips, and all the delicious sides. Let’s dive in!
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List of the Best Durham Fish and Chips Shops & Pubs
Best Fish and Chip Shops in Durham: Top 11
1. Bells Durham Marketplace
Bells Fish Shop in Durham’s Market Place stands out with its commitment to fresh, sustainable fish. You’ll taste the difference in their classic fish and chips – the batter is light and crispy, the fish perfectly flaky, and the portions are generous enough to please even the heartiest appetites. Go for the traditional cod or try something a bit different like the plaice. Their mushy peas and homemade tartare sauce are the ideal accompaniments, and they even offer a delicious curry sauce option for those who enjoy a bit of a kick.
The upstairs seating area boasts a lovely view of the bustling marketplace, giving your meal a delightful atmosphere that’s both cosy and vibrant. The service is friendly and efficient, making it ideal for both a quick bite or a more relaxed dining experience. While the prices are slightly higher than some chip shops, the quality of the ingredients and the generous portions make it well worth it. This is a real contender for one of the best fish and chip shops in Durham!
- Best for: Quality, sustainable fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips with mushy peas
- Address: 11 Market Place, Durham, DH1 3NE
- Rating: ★★★★☆
- Price: ££
2. Bunty’s Chip Stop
Bunty’s Chip Stop focuses on the speed and convenience of traditional takeaway fish and chips. Their menu is straightforward, offering classic cod, haddock, plaice, and various pies and sides. Don’t expect anything fancy – their focus is squarely on delivering familiar flavours and no-frills service. The portions are generous, catering to a hearty appetite and making it a decent value for money.
The fish and chips themselves are always tasty and freshly cooked. It doesn’t matter how busy they get, and they do get busy, in our experience quality is never compromised. They are also a great shout on a night out with their location just off North Road and a stones throw for some of Durham’s most popular pubs. For those looking for a reliable, classic chip shop experience, Bunty’s will deliver – definitely one of the very best fish and chips in Durham.
- Best for: No-frills takeaway fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips
- Address: 18A North Rd, Durham DH1 4SH
- Rating: ★★☆☆☆
- Price: £
3. Battered & Fried
Battered & Fried offers a casual chip shop experience with a focus on quick takeaway orders. They serve classic fish and chips alongside other popular fried eats like sausage, burgers, and more. If you’re looking for a place to grab a no-fuss dinner while out and about, Battered & Fried fits the bill. The portions are generous and the prices are budget-friendly.
The quality is consistent and batter satisfyingly crispy even at peak times. For those seeking a quick, cheap Durham chippy, Battered & Fried will satisfy. But if you’re truly hoping for exceptional fish and chips with that perfect balance of crispy batter and tender fish, you might want to explore other options further up our list.
- Best for: Casual takeaway fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips (if fresh)
- Address: 68 High St, Carrville, Durham DH1 1AT
- Rating: ★★☆☆☆
- Price: £
4. Stanton’s Fish & Chips
Stanton’s Fish & Chips delivers a reliably satisfying experience for fish and chips fans. You’ll find traditional options like cod and haddock alongside other takeaway staples such as pies, sausages, and burgers. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for queues, especially at busier times. While perhaps not the absolute crispiest batter in Durham, Stanton’s provides generous portions and a familiarly comforting chip shop flavour that keeps people coming back.
The standout here is the portion size and value for money. If you’re searching for a hearty and filling meal on a budget, Stanton’s certainly won’t disappoint. They offer a welcoming and informal dine-in area for those looking to enjoy a sit-down experience, as well as the ever-popular takeaway option for a convenient meal on the go. While speed and volume are the focus, the fish itself remains flaky and well-cooked, ensuring a decent quality within this classic chip shop format. Stanton’s is in the city centre, so it is worthwhile checking out our guide to Durham Car Parks so you know where to park if you are driving into the city for your Durham chippy lunch or tea!
- Best for: Generous fish and chips portions
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips (ask for crispy batter if you prefer)
- Address: 22a Gilesgate, Durham DH1 4QN
- Rating: ★★★☆☆
- Price: ££
5. Field’s Fish Shop
Field’s Fish Shop offers more than just a meal; it’s a taste of fish and chips heritage. Their unique coal-fired cooking method, a rarity these days, infuses their food with a subtle smoky depth that sets them apart from the average chippy. Expect classic cod, haddock, and plaice alongside other chip shop favorites, all expertly cooked. The batter is exquisitely crisp, showcasing the freshness of the fish within. No visit is complete without their chunky chips – fluffy on the inside and a satisfying golden brown on the outside.
While Field’s might be slightly pricier than some of its competitors, the focus on tradition and quality is apparent in every bite. Portions are satisfyingly generous, and the friendly team creates a welcoming atmosphere, whether you dine in or opt for takeaway. If you’re searching for a truly exceptional fish and chips experience in Durham, Field’s Fish Shop delivers both the flavours and the nostalgia. It’s a strong contender for your new go-to spot and a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of classic British cuisine done right.
- Best for: Traditional, coal-fired fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips
- Address: 4 Durham Rd, Esh Winning, Durham DH7 9NW
- Rating: ★★★★☆
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.fieldsfishshop.com
6. Gilesgate Golden Chippy
Gilesgate Golden Chippy offers a reliable, no-frills fish and chips experience. If you’re searching for a classic chip shop meal on the go or a quick dinner option, it fits the bill. While it might not be the absolute crispiest batter in Durham, the fish itself is fresh and the portions are satisfying, providing good value for the price.
The real draw of Gilesgate Golden Chippy is the focus on convenience. They have a straightforward menu of fish and chips alongside other chip shop staples and offer both takeaway and delivery. Service can sometimes be a bit uneven during busy periods, leading to longer waits, but the staff are generally friendly. Their fish and chips won’t wow you with unique flavours or a gourmet touch, but it’s a solid contender for a quick and tasty chip shop dinner when you’re out and about or craving a classic takeaway. If you’re less concerned with crispiness perfection and appreciate the convenience factor, Gilesgate Golden Chippy will provide you with a satisfying, no-nonsense meal. It also offers fish and chips delivery in Durham.
- Best for: Convenient fish and chips takeaway
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips
- Address: 1 Gort Place, Gilesgate, Durham DH1 1EY, UK
- Rating: ★★★☆☆
- Price: £
7. Fram’s Fry
Fram’s Fry is a neighborhood chip shop focused on classic fish and chips alongside other takeaway staples. If you’re looking for a no-frills meal to take away and enjoy at home, this might do the trick. Don’t expect high-end ingredients or gourmet touches; Fram’s Fry offer familiar chip shop flavors at reasonable prices.
If you’re seeking a truly impressive fish and chips experience, you might want to explore more well-established options within Durham. However, if you’re simply looking for a convenient and affordable fish and chips fix close by, Fram’s Fry will fulfill that need without much fuss.
- Best for: Quick and convenient fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Can’t recommend a specific dish based on limited information
- Address: 30a Front St, Framwellgate Moor, Durham DH1 5EE
- Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Tentative – based on very few reviews)
- Price: £ (Likely affordable, but couldn’t confirm)
- For table reservations, please visit: (Couldn’t locate a website)
8. Travellers Rest (Witton Gilbert)
The Travellers Rest offers a heartwarming pub experience, complete with classic fish and chips. This countryside spot delivers a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for escaping the city and enjoying a relaxing meal. If you’re searching for a generous portion of battered cod and chips served alongside a friendly smile, it ticks the boxes. The batter is crisp and satisfying, and the fish itself is fresh and flaky.
While you shouldn’t expect gourmet innovation with their fish and chips, the Travellers Rest focuses on delivering traditional flavours and a welcoming environment. The portions are substantial, making it an excellent choice if you’ve worked up an appetite. You might not find this to be the most groundbreaking fish and chips in Durham, but it offers a reliable and enjoyable pub experience – exactly what you might crave after a day out in the countryside.
- Best for: Traditional pub fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Classic cod and chips
- Address: Front Street, Witton Gilbert, Durham, County Durham, DH7 6SJ
- Rating: ★★★☆☆
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.travellersrest-wittongilbert.co.uk/
9. The Old Mill (Metal Bridge)
While The Old Mill boasts a vast menu, their fish and chips offering delivers a classic pub experience rather than aiming for culinary innovation. Expect a generous portion of battered cod with a respectable flavor and texture, alongside standard chips. It’s a reliable option if you’re dining with a group that has varied preferences, as their large menu caters to most tastes.
The Old Mill focuses on hearty portions and a casual atmosphere rather than the most refined or crispy fish and chips in Durham. If you have your heart set on trying the best fish and chips shops in Durham, you might want to explore more specialized options. However, if you’re looking for a satisfying and reasonably priced fish and chips meal within a welcoming pub setting, The Old Mill fits the bill.
- Best for: Classic pub-style fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Fish and chips with a side of mushy peas
- Address: Old Mill Ln, Metal Bridge, Ferryhill DL17 0SN, UK
- Rating: ★★★☆☆
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.oldmilldurham.co.uk/
10. Davy’s Fish and Chips (Beamish)
Davy’s Fish and Chips at Beamish offers a delicious step back in time. Their coal-fired ranges infuse the fish (typically cod) with a subtle smokiness, showcasing how fish and chips were prepared in the past. Expect generous portions and the old-school charm of newspaper-wrapped meals. Come hungry and be prepared for the possibility of queues – it’s a popular spot!
While you might not get the absolutely crispiest batter here, Davy’s is about the overall experience. It’s perfect for history buffs and anyone who wants to taste this classic British dish the way it used to be made. If you’re visiting Beamish Museum, Davy’s offers a delightful way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and grab a tasty, traditional meal.
- Best for: Historical fish and chips experience
- Dish to Order: Cod and chips
- Address: Beamish Museum, Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
- Rating: ★★★★☆
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: (Davy’s is primarily a takeaway experience within Beamish Museum) Beamish Museum Website: https://www.beamish.org.uk/
11. Cross Keys Inn (Esh)
If you’re looking for the best Durham fish and chips and are willing to travel the Cross Keys Inn in Esh is worth a visit – especailly if you’ve got non fish and chip lovers as part of your group. Their menu does include fish and chips, offering a familiar classic alongside other hearty pub favorites. You’ll appreciate the cozy environment and generous portions on offer.
The fish and chips are standard pub grub – don’t expect gourmet innovation or the crispiest batter in Durham. However, if you’re in the area and craving a classic fish and chips meal within a friendly country pub atmosphere, the Cross Keys Inn will satisfy that need. Alternatively, you can check out some of the other best restaurants in Durham if you are feeling peckish!
- Best for: Classic pub fish and chips
- Dish to Order: Fish and chips (if seeking this specifically)
- Address: Esh Village, Durham DH7 9QR, UK
- Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Tentative, due to limited information on fish and chips specifically)
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://thecrosskeysesh.co.uk/
FAQ
The most popular fish and chips in Durham include Bells Fish Shop for its fresh fish, Field’s Fish Shop for coal-fired flavor, and Gilesgate Golden Chippy for convenience.
Bunty’s Fish and Chips are the best Durham chippy that does deliveries – they don’t offer their own delivery service but you can get delivery for as little as 99p via Deliveroo. They are also listed on Uber Eats and Just Eat if you prefer.
Davy’s Fish and Chips at Beamish Museum is famous for its historical experience and traditional coal fired cooking methods.
Expect to pay around £7-10 for a standard cod and chips. In some of the higher-quality establishments, prices can be a little higher. Prices can also vary slightly based on location and portion size.
Bells Fish Shop, Bunty’s Fish Stop and Stantons are excellent choices in the city centre. Bells focuses on quality and sustainability (you can also sit-in), while Stantons and Bunty’s offers generous portions and traditional chip shop vibes.