Is there a better thing to do than snack on fish and chips while sitting along the harbour or seafront?

We have all flocked in our droves to get a portion of battered cod or possibly a scampi treat.

Most of us have a local takeaway within a short walk or drive of our house. But why not push the boat out and try some of the most recommended in Dorset?

Today is National Fish and Chips Day, which celebrates the nation's favourite dish and we have rounded up what readers think is the best place for fish and chips in Dorset.

Hundreds of comments later, we have managed to compile a list of places that our readers can’t get enough of.

Some of these restaurants are described as ‘beautiful’ and ‘the best in Dorset’.

Bennett’s, Weymouth

Numerous people recommended Bennett’s for its ‘very tasty’ and ‘delicious’ food.

Jo-Ellen Young wrote how she loved eating their food while sat at Nothe Gardens.

By the Bridge, West Bay

Based within one of the many popular kiosks in West Bay, many diners were impressed with its service and food.

One customer wrote: “By the Bridge in West bay has amazing beer battered fish and volcano ices too.”

Chesil Chippie, Portland

Based off Victoria Square Roundabout, this chippy currently has a four-and-half rating out-of-five on TripAdvisor from 204 reviews. 

Debbie Toni Morgan wrote how their vegan fish and chips “are simply amazing”.

Fish n Fritz, Weymouth

Many readers praised the Market Street’s takeaway’s ‘great service and food’ and ‘really large portions’.

One wrote: “Fish n Fritz - every time - can’t wait to be down again to have them on the harbour side.”

It comes as Fish ’n’ Fritz was recently named in trade publication Fry Magazine's 'UK's 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways 2021' list following a visit from a 'mystery diner.'

It comes after the business won Gold in the Dorset Tourism Awards and reached the finals of the South West Tourism Awards.

The Fish Plaice, Swanage

With a four-and-a-half rating on Tripadvisor, it’s no wonder The Square chippy is so highly rated.

Simon Charsley wrote how he ‘loves the homemade fish cakes’ while Roz Cameron described their chips as ‘amazing’.

Replying to a comment, Matthew Loader said: “I've had fish and chips from there and I totally agree!”

Marlboro, Weymouth

The distinctive green restaurant near to the Town Bridge in Weymouth has diners raving about its food.

Customers have described its staff as ‘lovely’ while one person said their food ‘is the best I’ve ever tried’.

One wrote: “Marlboro Weymouth as it's the only place I've ever seen a pea fritter in breadcrumbs! Yum.”

Samantha Skelton commented: “I’m from Southampton but family from Weymouth and definitely the best chippy in Dorset!”

Ray’s Fish and Chips, Portland

A chippy that was frequently referenced was Ray’s Fish and Chips on Straits, Portland.

One wrote: “Ray’s fish and chips on Portland are so tasty, generous portion sizes and good value for money.”

Nicky Lively Brett commented Rays is ‘my favourite’, and added: “Always cooked to perfection and great value.

“The family who run it are lovely too and you can order in advance to save waiting.”

Another person wrote: “Another vote for Ray’s on Portland - the best fish and chips anywhere - not just Dorset!”

Seagulls, West Bay

Based on Station Road, this West Bay restaurant has won the locals and tourists over with its delicious food.

One person wrote online: “Yet again for about the sixth time you’ve been brilliant.

“Your food is excellent and I always enjoy the locally caught fish. I had hake, one of my sons had lamb shank and the other scampi.

“Really enjoyable evening and I promise we will be back.”