Yarm Road Fish and Chips Crowned Best in Britain at National Awards

In a dazzling tribute to Britain’s beloved fish and chip trade, Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington, County Durham, has clinched the coveted Takeaway of the Year title at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. Held in London and hosted by television favourite Matt Baker, the 37th annual ceremony, orchestrated by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), celebrated the industry’s finest—from gritty newcomers to seasoned operators—who are raising the bar for this quintessentially British dish.

The awards, spanning 15 categories, recognised excellence in everything from sustainability to digital innovation, spotlighting businesses and individuals who marry tradition with forward-thinking flair. After a rigorous judging process involving interviews, skills demonstrations, and blind taste tests, Yarm Road Fish and Chips emerged as the golden standard, outshining The Fish Works in Largs, Scotland, and Kellaway’s Fish and Chips in Truro, Cornwall, who took second and third places, respectively.

Elsewhere, Bells Fish & Chips in Durham fried their way to the Restaurant of the Year category, followed by Malt and Anchor in Cirencester and Trenchers Spanish City in Whitley Bay. Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven, Scotland, netted the Field to Frier award, while Glen Morrison of Garioch Fish Bar in Inverurie, Scotland, was hailed as the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year. Mackerel Sky in Stamford Bridge, Yorkshire, made waves as Newcomer of the Year, proving that fresh talent continues invigorating the sector.

For Will Burrell, director-manager of Yarm Road Fish and Chips, the victory was surreal. “We genuinely didn’t believe this would be our year,” he confessed. “To stand shoulder-to-shoulder with such extraordinary finalists is an achievement—but to take the top spot? That’s the stuff of dreams.” He attributed the win to his team’s relentless dedication, adding, “This trophy belongs to them. Without their hard work, we’d be nowhere near this moment.”

Burrell also tipped his hat to the shop’s loyal customers, urging the public to rally behind local chippies. “They’re the heartbeat of our communities, especially when times get tough. Go enjoy your chippy tea—it’s more than just a meal,” he said.

Andrew Crook, NFFF president, hailed the winners as torchbearers for an industry in flux. “The benchmarks for quality, sustainability, and service climb higher every year, and these champions have risen to the challenge,” he said. “They’re not just serving fish and chips—they’re showcasing the passion and professionalism that keep this trade thriving.”

The event’s principal sponsor, Seafood from Norway, underscored the shared values of excellence and sustainability. UK Director Victoria Braathen praised the winners’ achievements, noting, “It’s an honour to support the talent driving this iconic industry forward.” She revealed that award recipients will embark on a study trip to Norway in June, offering a front-row seat to the sustainable fishing practices behind Norwegian cod and haddock—staples of the UK’s fish and chip heritage.

For over a decade, Norway’s seafood industry has bolstered Britain’s chippies through this partnership, and this year’s winners will experience a three-day immersion, including a day aboard the cutting-edge Langøy vessel. It’s a chance to witness firsthand how responsible sourcing fuels quality and conscience—a lesson that resonates deeply with hospitality leaders navigating today’s eco-conscious market.

As consumer tastes evolve and economic pressures loom, the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025 reminds us that this industry is far more than a nostalgic takeaway. These winners offer a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the art of frying up perfection for business owners in the fish and chip and hospitality sectors.

Here’s a breakdown of all the winners.

Takeaway of the Year - 1st: Yarm Road Fish and Chips, 2nd: The Fish Works, 3rd: Kellaway’s Fish and Chips

Restaurant of the Year - 1st: Bells Fish & Chips, 2nd: Malt and Anchor, 3rd: Trenchers Spanish City

Field to Frier - Redcloak Fish Bar

Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year - Glen Morrison from Garioch Fish Bar

Newcomer of the Year - Mackerel Sky

Employee of the Year - Georgia Lye from Seafare Guildford 

Mobile Operator of the Year - Country Fried

Environment and Sustainable Business - Finney’s Benllech

Training and Development - Taylors

Digital Marketing - Eric’s Fish and Chips

Quality Accreditation Champion - The Scrap Box

Community Engagement - Brockley’s Rock

International Fish and Chip Operator -Fez & Cip

Supplier of the Year -Dennis Crooks Fish Merchants

Outstanding Achievement - Paul Williams – KFE Ltd