There’s nothing quite as comforting (f0r some) as tucking into a hot plate of fish and chips – the golden batter, the fluffy chips, and that unmistakable seaside aroma of salt and vinegar. And now, one chippy in the North has been crowned among the best in the entire UK – and it’s less than an hour from Manchester.
The Swan, Southport – one of the best fish and chip shops across the UK
The Swan in Southport, Merseyside, has been recognised by Delicious Magazine as one of the best fish and chip shops across the UK coastline. The beloved spot has been serving locals and visitors for almost 50 years, earning a reputation for its crispy, perfectly battered cod and traditional charm.
Tucked away down a narrow passage at the far end of Lord Street, The Swan is a proper Northern gem. Distinctively built in a U-shape and overlooking the waterfront, the restaurant offers cosy booths and friendly table service – a nostalgic nod to the classic British seaside experience.
The Swan, Southport – Fish, chips, and a slice of nostalgia
At The Swan, diners can expect all the Northern chippy essentials – curry sauce, gravy, mushy peas, and even a slice of white bread for the ultimate chip butty experience. One delighted TripAdvisor reviewer described their visit as “the best fish and chips in Southport (possibly in the North of England!),” adding that the cod, chips, mushy peas, bread, and tea or coffee for £11.75 was “excellent value and delicious.”
The Swan’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients and its warm, old-school hospitality have made it a staple of Southport’s food scene. And with the seaside town just over an hour’s drive or train ride from Manchester, it’s the perfect excuse for a coastal day trip – complete with Britain’s favourite comfort food.
Another Northern favourite: Whelan’s Fish and Chips
Also earning a place on Delicious Magazine’s prestigious list is Whelan’s Fish and Chips in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. Established in 1937, Whelan’s has been visited by culinary icons including Gordon Ramsay and Rick Stein, but remains a humble, family-friendly local favourite. The restaurant is celebrated for its sustainably sourced fish, gourmet fishcakes, and crispy, golden chips – best enjoyed outdoors on a sunny day by the sea.
Whether you’re craving classic cod and chips or simply want to relive that nostalgic seaside feeling, both The Swan in Southport and Whelan’s in Lytham St Annes deliver the best of Northern chippy culture – all within easy reach of Manchester.
So next time you fancy a proper British fish supper, skip the takeaway and head for the coast. You might just find yourself at one of the best fish and chip shops in the UK.
