The Viking

Tucked into the West Chesterton corner of Cambridge, The Viking is the kind of proper chippy locals quietly guard as their own. Generations of students, families and night-shift workers have wandered in for golden, freshly fried fish in crisp batter, and the kitchen still cooks each order to be eaten there and then rather than left sitting under a hot lamp. Regulars rave about the generous portions, the real chip-shop chips fried in fresh oil and the friendly faces behind the counter, and there is a solid vegetarian selection alongside the classics.

The big draw is a beautifully done Haddock And Chips, with cod, sausages, pies and all the usual seaside sides present and correct. The shop has built a genuinely loyal following, reflected in a Google rating of 4.4/5 from more than 320 reviews, which is no small feat for a neighbourhood takeaway. Whether you are after a quick supper or feeding a hungry household, this is a dependable, no-nonsense spot for traditional fish and chips done the honest way.