For aficionados of fish and chips in Scotland, one town stands out as the ultimate destination: Stonehaven, situated on the breathtaking Aberdeenshire coast. But at the birthplace of the legendary battered Mars Bar, its legacy in British culinary history is secured.

Despite its small population of just over 11,000, Stonehaven is home to four chip shops serving locals, tourists, and day-trippers alike. Remarkably, two of these were named among the UK's top 40 by the National Federation of Fish Friers, according to the Scottish Daily Express.

Redcloak Fish Bar and Carron Fish Bar both secured spots on the list, with customers commending the quality of their offerings.

Redcloak, tucked away from the famous harbour, is renowned for its particularly delicious fish, while the Carron purports to be the birthplace of the legendary deep-fried Mars bar, although it was known as Haven Chip Bar at the time, reports the Daily Record.

According to Google reviews, the Carron shares the top spot in the town with Bay Fish and Chips, a firm local favourite that has amassed more than 90 awards over the years. But it is the owner of the Carron, John Davie who is credited with having first fried a Mars Bar there in 1992.

Even Meyden, the lesser-known chippie, boasts an impressive 4.2-star rating with numerous glowing five-star reviews.

Aberdeenshire itself is a paradise for chip shops, with six of Scotland's top ten outlets, as ranked by the National Federation, located in the region or nearby Aberdeen.

Stonehaven is not just known for its superb fish and chips. Its beach, a mix of sand and pebble, was recognised with a Keep Scotland Beautiful award earlier this year for its cleanliness, amenities, and accessibility.

The bustling harbour encourages visitors to take a leisurely walk to burn off those extra calories, while the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum on the waterfront offers a peek into the town's past.

A short distance away, the striking ruins of Dunnotter Castle sit atop a 160-foot rock, forming one of Scotland's most recognisable sights.

The cliffs around Stonehaven are home to tens of thousands of seabirds, and the town becomes a hub of activity during the renowned Stonehaven Fireballs event, which welcomes the New Year with a blazing display.

Situated about 15 miles south of Aberdeen, Stonehaven can be accessed by car from Glasgow or Edinburgh in approximately two and a half hours.

In other news, Scotland's favourite fish and chip shop was recently announced in the much-anticipated Deliveroo Restaurant Awards.

Sea Salt and Sole, with four branches across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, in Dyce, Bridge of Don, Cove, and Ellon, bagged the title of Best Fish and Chips in Scotland 2025.

Renowned for using freshly caught fish and locally sourced ingredients, Sea Salt and Sole has won over food lovers with its signature double-cooked chips, which perfectly accompany many dishes. The menu changes with the seasons, with meticulous attention paid to everything from the potato varieties to frying temperatures.