Hastings: Home of Fresh Fish & Authentic British Fish and Chips
Staying at the Apollo Guest House puts you right in the heart of Hastings just a few minutes walk from the seafront, promenade and world-famous fishing fleet that lands fresh fish daily. Hastings is a foodie destination for casual seaside classics like fish and chips, thanks to its long-standing fishing heritage where fish are often landed and served within hours.
Whether you want a classic takeaway to enjoy by the sea or sit-down fish and chips served with traditional sides, Hastings delivers some of the best fish and chip experiences in the UK.
Here’s our definitive local ranking of the best fish and chip shops in Hastings, ideal for visitors and local foodies alike.
🥇 1. Maggie’s Fish & Chips – Best Overall Fish & Chips
Located in the historic Rock-a-Nore fishing quarter, Maggie’s consistently earns top reviews for freshness and flavour.
Why it tops the list:
Locally caught fish landed nearby
Light, crispy batter and perfectly cooked chips
Classic seaside atmosphere
Maggie’s is the place to start your fish and chip adventure in Hastings, and is one of our favourites.
🥈 2. Rock a Nore Kitchen – Best Gourmet Fish & Chips
⭐4.7 Fish restaurant
Address: 23 Rock-a-Nore Rd, Hastings TN34 3DW
Just a short walk from Apollo Guest House, Rock a Nore Kitchen elevates classic British fish and chips with premium ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
Top reasons to visit:
High-quality seafood and homemade sides
Stylish presentation
Great reviews from food lovers
Perfect for those who want a refined seafood experience.
🥉 3. The Lighthouse – Best Traditional Takeaway
⭐4.7 Fish and chips takeaway
Address: 284 Priory Rd, Hastings TN34 3NN
A firm local favourite, The Lighthouse is known for consistent quality and friendly service.
Why it stands out:
Freshly cooked fish and chips
Strong local reputation
Highly rated by visitors and locals alike
Best for visitors and locals looking for authentic, high-quality fish and chips.
4. The Famous Cod Father Fish Bar – Best Vintage Chippy Feel
⭐4.4 Fish and chips takeaway
Address: 10 E Parade, Hastings TN34 3AL
The Cod Father is a popular choice among Hastings residents, known for its hearty portions and traditional fish and chip flavours.
Great for:
Classic cod or haddock dinners
Friendly service and local vibes
A must-try if you’re walking through the old town.
5. Beach Retreat Fish & Chips – Best Seafront Fish & Chips
⭐4.5 Fish and chips takeaway
Address: Marine Parade, Hastings TN34 3AD
Beach Retreat is ideal if you want fish and chips while strolling Hastings promenade.
Top features:
Prime location by the seafront
Quick takeaway service
Perfect to enjoy on a sunny afternoon
6. Mermaid Fish & Chips Restaurant – Best Sit-Down Fish & Chips
⭐4.4 Fish & chips restaurant
Address: 2 Rock-a-Nore Rd, Hastings TN34 3DW
Mermaid offers a slightly more relaxed dine-in experience right in Hastings Old Town.
Why visit:
Traditional service
Indoor seating
Classic fish and chips with sides
Great choice for families or rainy days.
7. Blue Fish – Best in St Leonards-on-Sea
⭐4.7 Fish & chips restaurant
Address: 31 London Rd, St Leonards-on-Sea, TN37 6AJ
Just a short walk east along the coast, Blue Fish is a local favourite with strong reviews and consistently good portions.
Best for:
Visitors staying near Hastings seafront
Well-rated fish and chip experience
8. Kingfisher – Best Town Centre Favourite
⭐4.4 Fish & chips restaurant
Address: 6 Castle St, Hastings TN34 3DY
Kingfisher Fish & Chips is a popular Hastings chip shop located in the town centre, known for fresh fish, generous portions, and friendly service.
9. The Grove Fish & Chips – Popular St Leonards Takeaway
⭐4.7 Takeout Restaurant
Address: 4 Bodiam Dr, Hastings, St Leonards-on-Sea TN38 9TW
The Grove Fish & Chips is a well-loved takeaway in St Leonards-on-Sea, offering fresh fish and chips with friendly service.
10. Hollington Fish & Chips – Best Hidden Local Gem
⭐4.7 Fish and chips takeaway
Address: 126 Battle Rd, St Leonards-on-Sea, TN37 7AN
Hollington Fish & Chips is loved by locals for its generous portions and quality cooking — ideal if you’re exploring beyond central Hastings.
👍 Tips for Choosing the Best Fish & Chips in Hastings
Here are some insider tips to get the best experience:
Freshness matters: Look for shops near Rock-a-Nore — these often serve fish that was landed that morning.
Peak times: Most shops are busiest at lunch (12:00–14:30) and early evening.
Sides matter: Mushy peas, curry sauce and proper chips really make the meal.
Enjoy with a view: Grab your takeaway and walk down to the seafront to eat with a view of the English Channel.
Map of the Best Fish and Chip Shops in Hastings
Use this map to explore the best fish and chip shops in Hastings and nearby areas during your stay at Apollo Guest House.
Enjoy the Best Fish & Chips in Hastings
From award-winning seafood restaurants in Rock-a-Nore to traditional takeaways near the seafront, Hastings offers some of the best fish and chips on the Sussex coast.
Whether you choose Maggie’s, Rock a Nore Kitchen, The Lighthouse or another local favourite, you’ll find fresh fish, generous portions and a strong connection to the town’s historic fishing heritage.
If you’re visiting Hastings, few experiences are more authentic than enjoying freshly cooked fish and chips just moments from the beach and the famous fishing fleet.
Choose Apollo Guest House For Accommodation
At the Apollo Guest House, you’ll have easy access to all the best that Hastings has to offer, thanks to its prime location. So if you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in the heart of this beautiful coastal town, look no further than the Apollo Guest House.
