Wetherby Whaler

Wetherby Whaler

Wetherby Whaler logo

Wetherby Whaler is a renowned chain of fish and chip restaurants and takeaways located in West Yorkshire, England. Established in 1969, the brand has become synonymous with traditional British fish and chips, offering a quintessentially English dining experience. The chain is particularly noted for its commitment to quality and sustainability, sourcing fish from certified sustainable fisheries.

History

The Wetherby Whaler was founded by Phillip and Janine Murphy in the town of Wetherby, which is situated on the banks of the River Wharfe. The original restaurant quickly gained popularity due to its high-quality fish and chips, leading to the expansion of the brand across the region.

In 1989, the Murphys sold the business to the current owners, Caroline and Phillip Murphy (no relation to the founders), who have continued to uphold the brand's reputation for quality. Under their leadership, the Wetherby Whaler has expanded to include several locations across West Yorkshire, including outlets in Guiseley, Wakefield, York, and Pudsey.

Locations

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Wetherby Whaler in Market Place, Wetherby

The flagship restaurant remains in Wetherby, where it all began. Each location is designed to offer a welcoming atmosphere, often featuring nautical themes and traditional decor that reflect the maritime heritage of fish and chips.

The Guiseley location is particularly notable as it occupies the former Harry Ramsden's restaurant, a historic site in the fish and chip industry. This acquisition in 2012 was a significant milestone for the Wetherby Whaler, allowing it to preserve a piece of British culinary history while expanding its own brand.

Menu

The Wetherby Whaler menu is centered around its signature dish: fish and chips. The fish, typically cod or haddock, is freshly battered and fried to order, served with thick-cut chips. The menu also includes a variety of other seafood options, such as scampi and plaice, as well as traditional British fare like mushy peas, curry sauce, and gravy.

For those seeking alternatives to fish, the Wetherby Whaler offers a selection of pies, sausages, and vegetarian options. The chain is also known for its desserts, including traditional British puddings and ice creams.

Community Involvement

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Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge

The Wetherby Whaler is actively involved in the local community, supporting various charitable events and initiatives. The annual "Festive Challenge" is a popular event that encourages participants to enjoy a meal at the restaurant while raising funds for local charities.

The chain also emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, participating in initiatives to reduce waste and promote recycling within its operations.

Related Pages

• Fish and chips
• West Yorkshire
• Sustainable seafood
• British cuisine