The 7 Must-Try Traditional British Dishes

While British food is now an exciting mix of cuisine from around the world, there’s still plenty of traditional dishes to try. All the different regions of England all have their own specialities, but here’s seven you need to try.

Traditional British Food Dishes

1. Fish and Chips

This classic dish has been around since the 19th century in the UK, and was originally sold wrapped in old newspapers. You’ll find chippies all over the country serving freshly battered and fried fish with thick cut chips (fries) on the side. Ask for lots of salt and vinegar!

Visiting the UK? Check out our picks of the best chips in England.

2. Bakewell Tart

This tasty treat consists of a shortcrust pastry shell beneath layers of jam, frangipane, and a topping of flaked almonds.

3. Yorkshire Pudding

No Sunday roast is complete without a Yorkshire pudding (made of eggs, flour and milk), which is traditionally served with beef and gravy. Its bowl-like shape is perfect for mopping up every last bite of a delicious Sunday roast!

Visiting the UK? Check out our picks of the best gastropubs in the UK.

4. Cornish Pasties

This shortcrust, savoury pasty originate from Cornwall and is stuffed with minced beef, potatoes, onions, and seasoning. Traditional recipes say that the whole pasty must be at least 12.5% beef and 25% vegetables.

5. Pork Pie

There’s different variations of pies all across the UK, but the classic pork pie is a cold meat pie of roughly chopped pork and pork jelly sealed in a crust pastry. It’s a wonderfully savoury and delicious bite to eat that’s perfect for a picnic.

6. Shepherd’s Pie

This favourite comfort food dish is a delicious casserole with a layer of meat and vegetables, topped with crispy mashed potatoes fresh out of the oven. It’s similar to cottage pie, except traditionally you use lamb for shepherd’s pie and beef for cottage pie.

7. English Breakfast

No British dish can cure all woe quite like this hearty breakfast. The full English breakfast usually includes: bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, toast, mushrooms, tomatoes, hash browns and black puddings.

Check out where to find the best full English breakfasts in England here.