TripAdvisor: 5 chippies to visit in County Durham this Easter

To help people make up their minds about which one is the best to visit over Easter, we have rounded up five of the best ones in County Durham, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

Through sparkling reviews, top rankings, and mentions in the ‘best of ‘ lists, we have managed to find those hidden gems and those that own that ‘perfect’ accolade.

5 chippies to visit in County Durham this Easter

Market Square, Durham, DH1 3NE

As an institution of the North East, Bells has numerous locations across the region – and is a big name for a reason. 

People rave about fish and chips from this place, and it’s a real staple of the community.

However, on TripAdvisor, it’s the Durham City venue that people really talk up. 

One reviewer said: “Visited here on our trip to Durham, we booked a table, which was a good idea. The battered Cod and Haddock were fresh and tasty, and the portion size was big, along with the chips. It comes with bread and butter. Would come back here again.”

4 Durham Road, Durham, DH7 9NW

Fields Fish & Chip, located at 4 Durham Road in Esh Winning, Durham, is a traditional chippy that’s built a reputation for serving some of the best fish and chips around.

Reviews from early 2025 rave about the freshness of the cod, the perfectly crisp, golden batter, and the generous portions of proper chips, all cooked the old-fashioned way in beef dripping over coal-fired ranges.

One couple mentioned travelling 55 miles to get there and said it was “worth every mile”.

Another reviewer compared it favourably to Bells at Gilesgate, saying it “can’t hold a candle” to Fields’ quality.

It’s a cash-only spot, so be sure to bring money with you, but if you’re after proper, nostalgic, top-tier fish and chips, Fields is “more than worth the detour,” according to reviews.

49 Market Place, Middleton in Teesdale, Barnard Castle

Middleton in Teesdale Fish and Chip Shop, found at 49 Market Place in the heart of the village, is a much-loved local spot serving up classic fish and chips alongside award-winning pies.

Visitors speak highly of the quality, describing the food as “delicious and faultless”, with “perfectly cooked fish, tasty chips, and extras like peas and gravy that hit the spot”.

While the indoor seating is limited to just a couple of tables, there’s plenty of outdoor space to sit and enjoy your meal when the weather’s kind.

The staff get praise for being friendly, and regulars recommend ringing ahead to pre-order, especially in summer when it gets busier—though even out of season, calling ahead seems to be the norm.

“It’s a proper village chippy with real charm and loyal fans who wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it”, according to reviews.

36 Galgate, Barnard Castle

Fish & Chips At 149, located at 36 Galgate in Barnard Castle, has quickly become a must-visit for anyone passing through the area.

Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or as a couple, reviewers consistently praise the food, especially the excellent fish with its light, crispy batter, and generous, well-cooked chips.

Mushy peas and even chicken nuggets get a special mention, with one visitor saying they’re “to die for” and wishing the place would open a branch in Middlesbrough.

The staff are described as “friendly and welcoming, adding to the charm of the place”.

With multiple return visitors already calling it an “essential part of their trip”, it’s clear this little spot is doing everything right when it comes to classic British comfort food.

5 North Terrace, Seaham, SR7 7EU

Downeys of Seaham, perched on North Terrace with a view of the sea, is a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Known for its welcoming staff and friendly banter, it offers a classic fish and chip experience done right—cooked fresh to order with all the benefits that brings.

The cod comes well-praised, with crisp batter and proper chips that hit the spot.

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One review highlights the joy of being treated to a portion by a regular fan, calling it tasty and well worth the visit.

Another mentions making Downeys a tradition during annual trips to Seaham, with a wide menu, decent prices, both indoor and outdoor seating, and food that’s consistently “bloody delicious.”

If you’re after quality, warmth, and a bit of seaside charm, this place ticks all the boxes.