In the heart of Sheffield, a humble shopfront on Sharrow Vale Road is home to what many believe is Britain's oldest fish and chip shop. Known as Two Steps, this cherished establishment has been serving hungry patrons for well over a century, with its origins traceable back to at least 1895.
A Name Born from the Trenches
The shop's distinctive name has a unique origin story rooted in the community spirit of the First World War. As several fish and chip shops popped up in the local area, this particular spot earned a nickname from its regulars. Because its entrance was slightly raised, it required customers to take 'two steps' to get inside. This affectionate local moniker stuck so firmly that it eventually became the shop's official title, setting it apart from its competitors.
Historical records indicate the business was first opened by a man named James Boulton, who was listed as a 'fried fish dealer' in the 1895 trades directory. Since those early days, the shop has seen a succession of owners, each adding to its rich tapestry.
Decades of Dedication Behind the Counter
The current custodian, known to everyone as Laggy, has been at the helm for the last two decades. Before him, the longest-serving proprietors were Nan and Graham, who dedicated an impressive 34 years to serving from behind the historic counter.
When Laggy took over, he was determined to uphold the shop's legacy while making some key improvements. His primary focus was on sourcing premium, high-quality ingredients. He has also steadfastly resisted one modern fast-food trend: the infamous battered Mars Bar.
"It ruins the oil, and I don't agree with it anyway," the owner told local press. "It's a heart attack on a plate." This commitment to tradition and quality over fleeting fads is a hallmark of the establishment's enduring appeal.
A Reputation Built on Quality and Portions
The shop's popularity is undeniable, with queues regularly stretching out the door, rain or shine. Online reviews from sites like TripAdvisor paint a picture of a beloved local institution.
One loyal customer, who has visited almost every Friday for 20 years, praised it as "by far the best chippy in town", highlighting the generous portions and fair pricing. Another recent visitor described their meal as "fabulous", specifically commending the amazing staff and the owner. A reviewer declared the fish and chips the "best by far", noting impeccable service, perfect cooking, and incredibly generous portion sizes.
The debate over Britain's definitively oldest fish and chip shop is a tricky one. Other notable contenders include London's Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden, which opened in 1971. Another shop in Yeadon, West Yorkshire, once literally branded itself 'The Oldest Fish and Chip Shop in the World', but it closed permanently in 2016. This closure potentially elevates the Sheffield favourite's status, making Two Steps a strong candidate for the title of the longest-surviving fish and chip shop still trading in the UK today.
For over 130 years, through world wars and changing food trends, Two Steps has remained a constant. It stands not just as a purveyor of classic British fare, but as a living piece of social history, where every portion served carries the weight of a unique and delicious legacy.
