Top 5 Fish and Chips spots in the Cotswolds
Finding fresh seafood in the heart of the English countryside is an art. As a local tour specialist, I’ve vetted these spots not just for their batter, but for their consistency, oil quality, and the "London-to-Cotswold" travel logistics.
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1. Russell’s of Broadway (The Gold Standard)
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The Vibe: Sophisticated chippy in a historic furniture workshop.
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Why it’s Top 7: They use beef dripping for their chips (the traditional way) and locally sourced Cotswold Gold rapeseed oil for the fish. The batter is whispered-thin, not a heavy greasy coat.
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The Insider Edge: Located right on the High Street, it’s the perfect mid-tour stop. They offer a "finer dining" take on the classic.
2. The Chip Shed, Bourton-on-the-Water
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The Vibe: Casual, award-winning, and overlooking the River Windrush.
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Why it’s Top 7: Known for their sustainability and "no-fuss" approach. Their haddock is flaky and pristine.
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The Insider Edge: Bourton is famous for its "Venice" vibe; grab a takeaway here and eat by the low stone bridges for the ultimate photo op.
3. The Old Butchers, Stow-on-the-Wold
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The Vibe: A former butcher’s shop turned seafood specialist.
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Why it’s Top 7: While technically a restaurant, their "Fish & Chips" is widely considered the most refined version in the North Cotswolds.
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The Insider Edge: It’s small and elite. We recommend this for guests who want a "sit-down" lunch experience rather than a quick takeaway.
4. The Angel at Burford
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The Vibe: 16th-century gastro-pub charm.
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Why it’s Top 7: They have won "Cotswold Pub of the Year" multiple times. Their Hook Norton beer-battered fish is legendary.
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The Insider Edge: Perfect for the "Gateway to the Cotswolds" stop. If it's sunny, their walled garden is the place to be.
5. Inn for All Seasons, near Burford
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The Vibe: A traditional coaching inn with a serious focus on fresh catch.
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Why it’s Top 7: They get fresh fish delivered daily from Devon and Cornwall - unheard of for most inland pubs.
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The Insider Edge: It’s located on the A40, making it a strategic "final stop" for my guests heading back toward Oxford or London.
Our "Fish & Chips" Selection Methodology
How we reached our conclusions:
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Health oils: we only recommend spots that use high-quality oils (Rapeseed or Beef Dripping) to ensure the batter isn't heavy or soggy.
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Sourcing Distance: we prioritize establishments like The Inn for All Seasons that have direct links to Brixham or Cornish ports.
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Client Feedback: These 5 spots have consistently received 5-star verbal reviews from my private SUV passengers over the last 12 months.
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Driver Logistics: we personally vet for parking ease and booking reliability, ensuring my guests aren't left waiting in long queues during their precious tour time.
