The Wetherby Whaler is a chain of fish and chip restaurants based in Yorkshire, England. Known for its traditional British fish and chips, the chain operates in multiple locations, including Wetherby, York, and Wakefield. It is renowned for its high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and family-friendly dining experience.
The Wetherby Whaler is one of Yorkshire’s most famous names in fish and chips. Founded in 1969, it has grown to become a household name, offering high-quality meals across its multiple locations. With a commitment to sustainability, locally-sourced ingredients, and customer satisfaction, the Wetherby Whaler provides an unforgettable dining experience for locals and tourists alike.
What Makes the Wetherby Whaler So Special?
The Wetherby Whaler is more than just a restaurant, it is a true Yorkshire institution. The menu features fresh haddock, hand-cut chips and a variety of tasty extras, both to eat in or take away. Families, locals and visitors alike come to enjoy the quality and comfort of the Wetherby Whaler.
With five restaurants in key locations throughout Yorkshire, you can be sure of a great experience and excellent service wherever you go. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available.
The History of the Wetherby Whaler
The Wetherby Whaler was founded in 1969, with the first restaurant opening in Wetherby. Over the years, the company has grown and developed a reputation for great food and excellent service. In 2012, the Wetherby Whaler restored and reopened the historic Harry Ramsden’s Guiseley restaurant, which is often referred to as the “home of fish and chips”.
The Guiseley restaurant retains the character of the original Harry Ramsden’s but now serves the Wetherby Whaler’s own range of dishes.
Signature Dishes
The Wetherby Whaler menu includes a range of classic fish and chips, lighter dishes and speciality options. These include:
- Starters: Prawn cocktail, homemade soup.
- Main dishes: Cod, haddock, scampi or vegetarian options.
- Sides: Mushy peas, curry sauce, pickled eggs.
- Desserts: Gluten-free sponge pudding with custard.
Lighter options include fresh salads, with vegetarian ingredients sourced locally. The gluten-free fish and chips are made with fresh ingredients.
Where to Find the Wetherby Whaler
The Wetherby Whaler has five locations in Yorkshire. Each offers a different experience, but the same promise of great food and excellent service.
- Wetherby: The original restaurant, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Guiseley: The historic site, often referred to as the “home of fish and chips”.
- Wakefield: A spacious restaurant ideal for family meals.
- Pudsey: A modern restaurant with convenient takeaway options.
- York: Conveniently located near tourist attractions.
These locations reflect the Wetherby Whaler’s commitment to quality and accessibility across Yorkshire.
The Wetherby Whaler Experience
The Wetherby Whaler is known for a great dining experience, with consistent food quality and friendly service. Customers often comment on the light, crispy batter on the haddock, the generous portions of freshly cooked chips and the clean environment of the restaurants.
The fish is sourced from MSC-approved suppliers, while potatoes are grown locally and hand-cut daily to produce the perfect chip. This commitment to freshness and quality makes the Wetherby Whaler stand out from the rest.
Sustainability
The Wetherby Whaler is committed to environmentally-friendly practices.
- Fish: All haddock is sourced from MSC-approved sustainable fisheries.
- Recycling: The company recycles glass, paper, foil and food waste.
- Energy: Modern frying equipment is energy-efficient.
- Local sourcing: Ingredients are sourced from Yorkshire farmers and fishermen.
These practices make the Wetherby Whaler a great place to eat and a sustainable choice.
Why You Need to Visit the Wetherby Whaler
The Wetherby Whaler is more than just a restaurant, it is a part of Yorkshire’s food and tourism heritage. You can enjoy a plate of fish and chips at the historic Guiseley restaurant or grab a takeaway from the busy York branch. With its commitment to great food, excellent service and Yorkshire roots, it is a place you won’t want to miss.
Facilities:
- Open 7 days a week
- Free parking
- Excellent facilities for the disabled
- 160 seater restaurant
- Fully air-conditioned restaurant
- Children’s menu includes free toy and children’s loyalty card
- Licensed to sell wine beer and lager
- Vegetarian menu available
- Gluten free option available
Popular Questions
Below you can find common questions we get asked about Wetherby Whaler.
Does the Wetherby Whaler offer gluten-free options?
Yes, the Wetherby Whaler offers gluten-free fish and chips at most restaurants, as well as gluten-free desserts such as sponge pudding and custard.
What sustainability practices does the Wetherby Whaler implement?
The Wetherby Whaler sources haddock from MSC-approved suppliers and recycles glass, paper and food waste. They also use energy-efficient frying ranges in all restaurants.
How does the Wetherby Whaler maintain food quality?
The Wetherby Whaler maintains consistency by using locally-sourced produce and fresh Icelandic haddock delivered daily. Chefs use perfected recipes to maintain high standards across all restaurants.
What training programs does the Wetherby Whaler offer its staff?
We do not have specific information on staff training programs. The Wetherby Whaler does mention staff training as part of their environmental awareness and service excellence.
