One of Scotland’s most beloved fish and chip shops is opening its first restaurant in England

Cod or haddock, mushy peas or curry sauce, to vinegar or not to vinegar – the options are near endless when it comes to getting a chippy order in, which is probably part of the reason why fish and chips firmly remains one of the nation’s favourite dishes. Brits chow down on 167 million portions every year. That’s a lot of golden battered goodness. 

The family behind Scottish chippy powerhouse Blue Lagoon knows the force of the humble fish dinner all too well. Since 1975, the Glasgow-based business has built a venerable reputation across Scotland with eight restaurants in its home city, plus chippies in East Kilbride, Largs, Balloch, Stirling, Perth, Ayr and Prestwick. They’ve even welcomed celebs like Nigella Lawson, Lewis Capaldi and J Beebz (aka Justin Bieber) to dine on their fishy fare.

Now, Blue Lagoon is expanding its deep fat frying capabilities across the border, launching into England for the first time with a new site in Newcastle. Opening in May (the official date isn’t yet confirmed), the new city centre site will take over from the old Dicksons bakery on the corner of Grainger Street and Newgate Street, adjacent to the historic Bigg Market.

From cakes and coffees to tattoos and tacos, there’s not much that you can’t find on Grainger Street, and deep fried mars bars and pizza crunch are the latest treats to be added to the list. Scottish staples haggis and a sausage eclair have also been teased on the window posters announcing Blue Lagoon’s Geordie debut.

As well as home delivery options and a takeaway counter, expect a 60-cover restaurant from the third-generation family business, all thanks to a huge £1.5 million investment. Blue Lagoon Newcastle will be its 17th restaurant and promises to be the first in wider cross-border expansion. 

Consider yourself a fish and chip connoisseur? Well, you might want to check out this chippy, which was named the greatest in the UK for 2026. 

Did you see that Gordon Ramsay is opening a major new countryside restaurant in northwest England?

Plus: the best pie in the UK has been crowned at the 2026 British Pie Awards.