Fresh seafood and foodie experiences across England’s coast

Across the coastline, seafood is deeply connected to place — shaped by local waters, traditional fishing methods and generations of expertise.

Yorkshire Coast: crab, lobster and coastal heritage

You’ll find our friends at the North York Moors National Park have mapped a dream trail of more than 60 farm shops, delis, bakeries, village shops and more to give you a taste of the very freshest local produce. What’s more there’s a serious message behind the trail, disposable or gas BBQs can cause fires resulting in burnt Moorland which takes decades to recover. So rather than a charred, burnt offering for lunch, support local suppliers and pack a fresh Yorkshire picnic – Prevent, Protect, Picnic! 

Visit Whitby and you’ll find unique tastes and local suppliers round every corner. If you spot a smart blue and white fishing boat out in summer, it may well be drawing seawater to produce Whitby Sea Salt! Visit Whitby Lobster Hatchery which releases 100,000 juvenile lobsters into the sea each year to protect the species for generations to come, drop into the Discovery Centre to see 30 species of marine life. 

Worked up a thirst? Make your way to a former cowshed with stunning views of Whitby Abbey – Whitby Brewery. Take a tour then settle at the bar for a pint of Saltwick Nab or Jet Black. For gin lovers, moorland heather inspired the flavour of Whitby Gin, sample this award-winning tipple in the Visitor Centre next to Whitby Abbey. 

If it’s a special occasion or you’re just looking to splurge, the 1881 restaurant at Wrea Head Hall fits the bill. Situated near Scarborough, superb contemporary cuisine is served in equally lavish surroundings, think oak panelling, gilt lighting and views out to sweeping landscaped gardens.

For the quintessential seaside taste, Quayside Restaurant and Lounge Bar has to be a top spot for fish and chips, boasting fabulous panoramic views across the harbour, alongside fish and seafood make space for homemade gelato, deserts and cocktails. 

Don't miss this coastal tradition
Kippers are one of the UK’s most famous delicacies, traditionally smoked using methods that have been passed down for generations. This focus on craft and heritage is echoed across the coastline, where local identity and food remain closely intertwined. Explore Forture's Kippers of Whitby →

Mersea Rock oysters, hot seafood platters and delicious smoked fish - with 350 miles of coastline, Essex’s seafood scene is booming! 

Essex Coast: oysters, cockles and estuary views

To taste the Essex coast at its freshest, head over to Mersea Island, perhaps the seafood capital of the county where eating native oysters date back to the Romans. Savour oysters harvested directly from the surrounding estuary, enjoy experiences across the island to learn about oyster cultivation, preparation and the rich heritage behind this iconic local delicacy. 

Low in fat and high in protein, Leigh-on-Sea cockles are renowned for their plump texture and buttery flavour. Uncover the story behind this traditional shellfish at the historic cockle sheds of Old Leigh, one of Essex’s most authentic coastal food experiences.  There’s the chance to sample shellfish straight from the estuary while learning about the town’s long-standing fishing heritage and connection to the sea. 

If you’d rather get out on the water, set sail from Maldon on a traditional Thames sailing barge with Topsail Charters, dining cruises combine sampling the freshest ingredients with storytelling of the area’s maritime heritage, take your pick from afternoon tea, Grape and Grain, morning coffee to brunch, lunch and sunset cruises. 

Back on terra firma, The Pier at Harwich overlooks the harbour and blends boutique accommodation with an award‑winning seafood restaurant. Menus showcase fish and shellfish landed on the harbour opposite, enjoy drinks and al fresco dining on the first-floor balcony, in addition to cask ales and cocktails there’s a gin library featuring more than 150 types. 

A superb line-up of sparkling, white and reds is in store for wine aficionados if you’re visiting Essex. Spend a day at Crouch Ridge Vineyard overlooking the River Crouch estuary, take a guided tour, experience food pairings with local produce and enjoy sampling award-winning vintages in an outstanding setting. 

With 'Sandwich' in its repertoire, it’s little wonder that White Cliffs Country lives up to Kent’s reputation as the Garden of England. 

Kent Coast: heritage flavours and foodie experiences

Local restaurants, cafes and bars champion local food producers, Kent hop fields have made the beer world-famous for centuries while its orchards continue to produce award-winning cider, pop into a local pub for a taste. 

The weekly Saturday Deal market has to be one of the best in the country. Come for a coffee and then browse antiques, bric-a-brac and wonderful preserves, cheeses, fresh flowers, local honey, herbs and then enjoy a glass of the delicious local wine. In Sandwich you’ll find a Thursday market, pick up freshly baked bread, plants and cut flowers, fruit and veg, gifts and much more. 

Deal brims with bakers, fishmongers and great stops for brunch, lunch or relaxed fine dining, it’s long been having a moment as a foodie haven.  However, Sandwich also packs an impressive culinary punch, enjoy riverside brasseries, traditional Kentish pubs and laid-back al fresco dining. Not to be outdone, Dover offers a great range of dining options too with panoramic seafront views, traditional English pubs serving great family fare. 

Foodie Experiences in Kent.
Hidden away but in the centre of Deal, The Lane is an intimate restaurant offering cocktail making classes for groups of five to 10, conjure up a classic Mojito or dial up the rum in a Spicy Mango Slush.

Or kick-start your foraging journey with Lucia Stuart from The Wild Kitchen, scour beaches for fresh shellfish, edible seaweed and learn how to create a gourmet outdoor feast. 

Create your own ice-cream sundae at Solley’s Parlour, learn professional knife skills from an artisan, award-winning butcher at The Black Pig or join a bespoke tour at one of Kent’s oldest vineyards, Barnsole, sampling award-winning sparkling, white and reds. 

Plan your next adventure

Whether it’s oysters straight from the estuary, freshly dressed crab in a harbour town or traditional smoked fish enjoyed beside the sea, seafood is one of the most memorable ways to experience England’s coast.

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