Tiny Scottish town that's home to two of the UK's best fish and chip shops
Stonehaven, on the Aberdeenshire coast, has a population of 11,000 but boasts four chippies, two of which have been named among the best in the UK by a prestigious industry body
For lovers of fish and chips in Scotland, Stonehaven on the stunning Aberdeenshire coast is the ultimate destination. This town, known as the birthplace of the legendary battered Mars Bar, has secured its place in British culinary history.
Despite its modest population of just over 11,000, Stonehaven boasts four chip shops catering to locals, tourists, and day-trippers alike. Impressively, two of these were named among the UK's top 40 by the National Federation of Fish Friers, as reported by the Scottish Daily Express.
Redcloak Fish Bar and Carron Fish Bar both earned spots on the list, with customers praising the quality of their fare.
Redcloak, nestled away from the famous harbour, is famed for its particularly tasty fish, while the Carron claims to be the birthplace of the legendary deep-fried Mars bar, although it was known as Haven Chip Bar at the time, according to the Daily Record.
Google reviews suggest that the Carron shares the top spot in the town with Bay Fish and Chips, a firm local favourite that has collected more than 90 awards over the years. However, it is John Davie, the owner of the Carron, who is credited with first frying a Mars Bar there in 1992, reports the Express.
Even Meyden, the lesser-known chippie, boasts an impressive 4.2-star rating with numerous glowing five-star reviews.
Aberdeenshire is a haven for chip shops, boasting six of Scotland's top ten establishments as ranked by the National Federation, all nestled in or near Aberdeen.
Stonehaven isn't just famed for its excellent fish and chips. Its beach, a blend of sand and pebble, was honoured with a Keep Scotland Beautiful award earlier this year for its cleanliness, facilities, and accessibility.
The lively harbour invites visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll to burn off those extra calories, while the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum on the waterfront provides a glimpse into the town's history.
Just a stone's throw away, the dramatic ruins of Dunnotter Castle perch atop a 160-foot rock, creating one of Scotland's most iconic views.
The cliffs surrounding Stonehaven are home to tens of thousands of seabirds, and the town becomes a hive of activity during the famous Stonehaven Fireballs event, which rings in the New Year with a fiery spectacle.
Located about 15 miles south of Aberdeen, Stonehaven can be reached by car from Glasgow or Edinburgh in roughly two and a half hours.
In other news, Scotland's favourite fish and chip shop was recently revealed in the eagerly awaited Deliveroo Restaurant Awards.
Sea Salt and Sole, with four outlets across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, in Dyce, Bridge of Don, Cove, and Ellon, scooped the title of Best Fish and Chips in Scotland 2025.
Famed for its use of fresh, locally caught fish and ingredients sourced from the surrounding area, Sea Salt and Sole has become a favourite among food enthusiasts thanks to its signature double-cooked chips that perfectly complement a variety of dishes. The menu is seasonally adjusted, with careful consideration given to every detail, from the type of potatoes used to the precise frying temperatures.
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