Finding the very best fish and chips can often be difficult - you could end up endlessly searching the whole of County Durham for them. 

It's also about personal preference - some people like to eat their fish and chips at the coast, while others rate it on the quality of the curry sauce and mushy peas.

However, at The Northern Echo, we have picked out five places that we believe are the very best, according to reviews on TripAdvisor. 

These places have been ranked as the best around the region by customers and regulars who have reviewed them online.

Five County Durham fish and chip shops to visit:

Golden Fish Inn

Woodlands House, Consett

Ranked by its customers as 'the best fish and chips in Consett', this place translates across County Durham as one of the best too. 

With an average rating of 4.7 stars out of five from over 700 reviews, this is up there with one of the best ranked. 

And from the reviews, it's easy to see why. 

One person who has been to the Golden Fish Inn said: "5* service and 5* food absolutely amazing, the shop is always immaculate food is always fresh and piping hot, staff are amazing and it’s just as good eating in or taking out. Been a customer for many years the best chippy I’ve been to."

Fields

4 Durham Road, Esh Winning, Durham

Ranked 4.5 stars out of five, Fields is a traditional fish and chip shop in County Durham - which seems to get customers back time and again. 

And from the reviews, it's clear that people love the food, the staff and everything that goes with it. 

One review read: "What a wonderful place with such friendly staff! I rang and pre-ordered for 10 people the day before (which I would advise for big orders) and it was all ready for me on the collection day/time."

Bells

11 Market Place, Durham

One place that always makes the list when it comes to the best fish and chip shops in County Durham; it's well known across the region and people love it. 

Having several venues across the North East - its popularity has boomed. but it seems like its restaurant in Durham City is still a staple and the pinnacle when it comes to fish and chips.

One of the 1000 reviewers who have ranked it 4.8 stars out of five said: "Absolutely loved my experience at this fish and chip restaurant! The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The food was simply beautiful - perfectly crispy fish and golden chips."

Middleton in Teesdale Fish & Chip Shop

49 Market Pl, Middleton-in-Teesdale

Another traditional chippy in the list - this place also has high reviews online - and according to those that have reviewed it - a "must visit". 

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Previously an award-winning establishment, this place is worth a visit during the Bank Holiday. 

One reviewer said: "Easily the best chippy I've ever been to in recent times. Excellent reliable quality. Friendly staff. Busy and often have to queue. Located in the heart of the Middleton in Teesdale village."

 Blackhill Fish & Chips

113 Durham Road, Blackhill, Consett

Another fish and chip shop based near Consett - this place is ranked highly on TripAdvisor and Google for having tasty food and great service. 

One impressed reviewer said: "Lovely fish and chips well priced fast service highly recommend the batter is absolutely to die for."