Fish and chip shop customers call 'absolutely gorgeous' named 'best in the North'

A trip to the seaside is never complete without a stop at one of Britain's greatest and most longstanding institutions - the fish and chip shop. The pick of the bunch are often found by the beach - and the best in the UK have been named.

Delicious magazine has curated a list of the top chippies across the UK coastline, from the northernmost point down to Land's End. And topping their list of 14 standout fish and chip shops is The Swan in Southport, Merseyside.

This uniquely U-shaped restaurant has been a fixture on the waterfront for nearly half a century, taking pride in using local produce whenever possible. Nestled at the end of Lord Street, this charming shop offers a variety of booths for customers to enjoy their meals with friendly table service.

True to its northern roots, The Swan offers both curry sauce and gravy to douse your chips in, but the fans suggest opting for a slice of white bread to make a proper chip butty.

One TripAdvisor review said: "Best fish and chips in Southport (possibly in the North of England!) at a reasonable price. Cod, chips and mushy peas with bread and tea or coffee - all for £11.75. There are lots of options on the menu that are child-friendly and vegetarian-friendly. Comfortable, pleasant, quick and good service."

Another satisfied customer said: "Wow. Wow. Wow. We jumped on the train in Liverpool and went to Southport specifically to try The Swan, as we had heard such great things about this place. What a find!".

"We both ordered the large cod meal, which comes with cod, chips, peas or curry, and a slice of bread and butter, and a drink of your choice.

"The. Best. Chips. I. Have. Ever. Eaten. I devoured my chips. They were absolutely gorgeous. Reviewing them now is making my mouth water. Hot, soft, fluffy. Perfect."

Another northern fish and chip shop that secured a spot on the exclusive list was Whelan's Fish and Chips, located in Lytham St Annes in Lancashire.

Tracing its roots back to 1937, this chippy has catered to celebrity chefs including Gordon Ramsay and Rick Stein throughout the years, yet continues to be something of a hidden treasure in the North.

The establishment takes pride in offering fish sourced from sustainable stocks whilst utilising as much local produce as possible. A standout recommendation from this venue includes their 'gourmet fishcakes' which frequently feature as a special.

One glowing review saID: "Visited here today and sat outside in the glorious sun. We had fish and chips and a portion of chips. The food was the best fish and chips we've had for a long time...cooked perfectly. Great efficient service and a good price...happy customers."