Many of us feel sentimental about things from bygone days, and if that resonates with you, then you might want to pay attention. Plenty of Britons may recall the era when you could enjoy fish and chips served directly in newspaper, and at one North East venue, you still can.
A Timeless Tradition
Fields Fish Shop, situated in the village of Esh Winning, County Durham, has been trading since 1915 and is famous for being amongst the last remaining establishments in the world to utilise a coal-fired range. Currently operated by the fifth generation of the Field family, the shop preserves numerous traditional methods.
As well as presenting its meals in newspaper, it also employs an original three-pan coal range, thought to be the only one of its type still functioning in the UK. Their batter recipe stays unaltered, with the fish and chips still prepared in beef dripping, and still combined using a traditional stainless steel "posser".
Interior and Atmosphere
The interior also stays mostly as it was more than a century ago, apart from tiling refreshed in the 1950s. Influencer Robbie Thompson recently offered his followers a glimpse at the fish and chips establishment, which he maintains is "rarely featured on social media". He stated in the clip: "This stunning fish and chips is served in newspaper and it's like being transported back in time."
Robbie was seen filming the fish and chips being made as well as sampling some of the food. The post racked up more than 26,000 likes, as one person exclaimed: "Amazing." Another commented: "This is what you call proper British." A third reviewer enthused: "I was there last night. Fantastic. They said it is the only coal fired 3 x compartment fryer in the UK. It has been in the family since 1915! Completely original fittings. Unreal."
Where Can You Find Fields Fish Shop?
Fields Fish Shop can be found at 4 Durham Road, Esh Winning, Durham, DH7 9NW, United Kingdom. The chippy is nestled in the quaint village of Esh Winning in the Deerness Valley, roughly 5 miles west of Durham city centre. Positioned on the village's main road, it stands as a notable local landmark for those seeking out its renowned coal-fired range.
Opening Hours
- Monday – Wednesday: 16:30 – 20:00
- Thursday: 16:00 – 20:00
- Friday: 11:00 – 13:30 and 16:00 – 21:00
- Saturday: 11:30 – 13:30 and 16:00 – 20:00
- Sunday: Closed
Parking and Service
Free on-street parking and a complimentary car park are generally available in the vicinity. It operates predominantly as a takeaway, offering very limited seating (two sets of tables and chairs) inside the premises.
