There was a time when Herring was one of the most important fish in Britain. Entire coastal towns were built around the herring fishery, and for generations it was a staple part of the British diet.

Today, fresh Herring is much less common, which is a shame because it's a wonderfully flavourful fish. Rich, oily and packed with character, it's a world away from the bland reputation some people imagine.

We source Herring from around the UK coast, often from Scotland where some of the finest fisheries still operate. Landings can be variable and seasonal, but whenever they're available we're always delighted to have them on the counter.

I'll admit that for years I bought Herring mainly to remind myself that nobody bought Herring. Then along came our WhatsApp Community. Once customers started seeing regular updates whenever they were landed, something unexpected happened - people started buying them! These days, we're often pleasantly surprised by how quickly they disappear.

Yes, they do have more bones than many modern favourites, but those willing to spend a few extra moments at the table are rewarded with one of the most delicious fish swimming in our waters.

An old favourite that's making a very welcome comeback.

Did you know
The Herring fishery was once so important that it employed tens of thousands of people around the British coastline. The famous 'Herring Lassies' travelled from port to port following the fishing fleet, working long hours gutting, salting and packing fish. Their skill and speed became legendary, with experienced lassies able to prepare thousands of herring in a single day.

Many of Britain's traditional smoked products, including Kippers, begin life as Herring. The fish are split, cured and traditionally smoked to create one of the country's most iconic breakfasts. Herring are also one of the most important food sources for larger fish, seabirds and marine mammals, playing a vital role in the marine ecosystem. At their peak, herring shoals were so vast that fishermen described the sea as 'turning silver'.

Few fish have shaped Britain's coastal communities quite like the humble Herring.