Top 5: Traditional U.K. Dishes to Try

British cuisine might not be regarded in the same league as Italian or French food, but there are some strong classic dishes you should definitely try during your time in the country.

Fish and Chips

It might be a cliché, but fish and chips is one of the most iconic British dishes around. Head to the seaside towns like Brighton or Whitstable and get a paper-wrapped fish and chips you can eat on the beach.

Full Breakfast

If you like to eat a lot in the morning, you have to try a full breakfast. There are slight variations around the country, but for the most part you will find sausages, bacon, fried eggs, tomatoes, beans and toast, with a mug of strong tea to wash it down.

Toad in the Hole

Look out for this on pub menus. It’s not the most common dish, but it’s worth a try. Imagine sausages surrounded by batter and baked in the oven until the whole thing turns golden brown and you’re pretty much there.

Shepherd’s Pie

Pies feature heavily in British cooking and shepherd’s pie is an old favorite. Lamb mince with onion gravy is set in a heavy dish and then covered with mash potato. It’s a great winter warmer. Cottage pie is the same but with beef mince.

Bangers and Mash

A childhood favorite for many, this dish is as simple as it sounds. Sausages and mash potato, sometimes accompanied by peas and carrots, but always with lashings of gravy.