Every year, fish and chip shops serve an estimated 380 million meals across the UK and this summer, thousands of Brits will be heading to the seaside and enjoying a portion of the British classic.
Suomikasinot, a casino comparison portal, analysed the number of fish and chip shops in each local authority and calculated the number of establishments per 100,000 residents to determine where has the highest density of this British culinary institution. Topping the list as the UK’s- fish and chip capital is Scarborough, with 85.35 chippies per 100,000 residents. The Lancashire seaside town has long drawn visitors with its dramatic cliffs and castle headland, award-winning beaches, historic harbour, and great family attractions. In second is East Lindsey, with 62.26 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents. The Lincolnshire district, which includes popular seaside towns like Skegness and Mablethorpe, has roughly one chippy every one or two miles along its 43-mile stretch of coastline.
The famous seaside resort of Blackpool came third, with 59.59 chip shops per 100,000 people. Known for its iconic tower, piers and illuminations, the Lancashire town draws millions of tourists each year.
Markku Kanerva, a spokesperson for Suomikasinot, said: “Fish and chip shops continue to be a cornerstone of community life throughout the UK, from Scarborough’s historic coastline to Blackpool’s busy promenade.
“However, this rich heritage is under threat, with almost half of UK chippies at risk of closing by the end of 2025. We’re seeing traditional chip shops facing unprecedented challenges.
“With 62% of these businesses being family-run, each closure represents not just an economic loss, but the end of skills and traditions passed down through generations.
“The average price of fish and chips is now reaching £15 or more in some areas and so affordability has become a major issue for many consumers.
“Energy costs and food inflation have put significant pressure on shop owners, with potato prices particularly affected by poor harvests.
“But if we don’t support our local chip shops now, we risk losing a beloved part of British culture that has brought communities together for centuries.”
Top 10 seaside towns for fish and chips – and the number of chippies per 100,000 residents
Scarborough, North Yorkshire – 85.35
East Lindsey, Lincolnshire – 62.26
Blackpool, Lancashire – 59.59
Hastings, East Sussex – 59.37
Great Yarmouth, Norfolk – 57.92
Gwynedd, Wales – 57.23
Rossendale, Lancashire – 47.88
Torbay, Devon – 46.61
Burnley, Lancashire – 45.4
Hartlepool, County Durham – 44.29