In an exclusive visit, I spent an afternoon in the charming UK village of Dunnington, where I discovered the best fish and chips I have ever tasted. This award-winning fish and chip shop, located in an unusual spot, boasts a refreshingly simple menu and immense hype, prompting me to investigate whether it truly lives up to its stellar reputation.
A Picturesque Village Setting
Dunnington is a delightful village nestled in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, just 15 minutes from the popular city of York. With around 3,000 residents, it has retained a peaceful, rural character and was previously recognised as one of the top 20 best places to live in Britain. My journey began with a leisurely stroll through the village with my enthusiastic cocker spaniel, Luna.
We paused to admire vibrant daffodil displays and spotted an impressive wicker horse, a nod to Dunnington's rich agricultural heritage. Venturing down a narrow public footpath, we reached open countryside with farmland stretching as far as the eye could see, where we breathed in the fresh, crisp March air.
Exploring Local Amenities
After our walk, we explored the village's local amenities, including a Costcutter shop, a bakery, and The Cross Keys pub on Common Road. We also visited the Brew and Brunch cafe, where I enjoyed a pot of tea and a delicious slice of Battenberg pie, though this proved an unwise choice before my fish and chip lunch.
The Star Attraction: The Scrap Box
Fully refreshed, we drove just three minutes to The Scrap Box, a fish and chip shop run by brothers Gavin and Aman Dhesi. Situated on the busy A1079 Hull Road, this chippy occupies an unconventional lay-by location, which is a stroke of genius for attracting passing commuters. The thriving trade was evident from the rammed car park and lengthy queue already forming.
Earlier this year, The Scrap Box claimed the prestigious 2026 Takeaway of the Year title at the National Fish and Chip Awards, and it was clearly living up to its reputation. The menu is pleasingly straightforward, focusing on brilliantly executed fundamentals.
Menu Highlights and Ordering Experience
Diners can choose from hake, haddock, or cod, alongside beloved classics such as sausage and mushy peas. Additional options include Spam or Yorkshire fishcake. A lunchtime special available between 11am and 3pm throughout March offers hake and chips with a side for the reasonable sum of £8.95.
For my order, I opted for the classic cod and chips, mushy peas, a pot of curry sauce, and a box of scraps—those irresistible crispy batter fragments fresh from the fryer. I added a can of Monster to combat post-cake weariness, bringing the grand total to £17.95. After thanking the friendly staff, I settled at outdoor picnic tables to dig in, while Luna enjoyed her treats on the grass.
Unmatched Quality and Flavour
With high expectations from its Takeaway of the Year reputation, The Scrap Box did not disappoint. The fish was cooked to perfection, boasting a light, golden, crispy batter without a trace of grease. Similarly, the chips were crisp and fluffy on the inside, pairing perfectly with the peas and curry. In all honesty, I could not fault it; this was the best fish and chips I had tasted in years and a strong contender for the best ever.
If you find yourself nearby, do yourself a favour and pay a visit—it earns a resounding 10 out of 10. The combination of a charming village setting and award-winning cuisine makes this a must-try destination for any fish and chip enthusiast.
