Scotland the best

Fantastic chippies

Scotland has the very best fish and chip shops, so good, they’ll leave you feeling, er, chipper The Bay, Stonehaven

On the prom towards the open air swimming pool, just look for the queue almost always there. They really do come from miles away (and to Aunty Betty’s next door for ice cream). All is cooked to order. You wait and walk on the front – perfect! The Bay wins many awards. Open 7 days, noon-10pm. thebayfishandchips.co.uk 01569 762000

The Wee Hurrie, Troon Alandas, Prestonpans

Here almost 30 years and I’d have to admit I didn’t notice and only became a big fan of Alandas when they came as a pop-up to George Square, Edinburgh, during the Fringe – and became the best F&C in the city. Never mind the dozens of other temporary takeaways in this heart of the Fringe quarter, Alandas is the best for festival food on the go. In Prestonpans there’s also pizza. Seven days 4-10pm. alandas.co.uk 01875 815999

Balmoral, Dumfries

Seems as old and essential as the Bard himself (actually 100 years!). Adjacent is the equally legendary Bruno’s Italian restaurant (same family). Using rapeseed oil, it’s the best chippie in the south. Out the Annan road heading east, 1km from centre.

01387 252583

The Fish Works, Largs

On the prom by the Cumbrae ferry in a town of much ice cream and F&C, this is the best of the latter and the batter. It wins awards and the local consensus. 7 days noon-9pm. thefishworks.co.uk 01475 674111

Famed, fabulous and stripped-down, on Troon harbour with its boats, the Wee Hurrie is part of MacCallums oyster and fish restaurant. Big range of freshly caught fish. L Tue-Sun noon-8pm (9pm Fri/Sat). maccallumsoftroon.co.uk 01292 319340 The Bay: No better batter!