Discover the Top 7 Bagel Shops Across the UK

The humble bagel, with its rich history tracing back to 13th-century Poland and Jewish culinary traditions, has found a beloved place in the UK's diverse food scene. Originally introduced to the UK in the early 1800s, bagels are now a staple in numerous bakeries across the nation, evolving from a Jewish deli specialty to a mainstream delight. Here’s a roundup of the seven best places to savor these doughy rings in the UK.

1. Best Boy Bagels, Sheffield Nestled in Sheffield, Best Boy Bagels doubles as a Jewish deli by day and a bao bun vendor by night. The establishment prides itself on hand-rolled bagels baked daily and filled with locally sourced ingredients, including unique ferments and handcrafted sauces like the must-try coriander hot sauce. Their menu features classics and plant-based options like the beetroot pakora.
2. Beigel Bake, Brick Lane, London A staple of London's Brick Lane since 1974, Beigel Bake is a 24/7 family-run business famous for its queues and delicious offerings. Signature options include the salmon and cream cheese or the hearty salt beef with mustard, each accompanied by a tangy pickle. This iconic spot remains a pilgrimage site for bagel enthusiasts.
3. Bross Bagels, Edinburgh From Montreal to Scotland, Bross Bagels brings the city’s unique bagel style to Edinburgh with two locations. Founded by Larah Bross, the shop offers the McBross, featuring haggis and smoked cheddar, among other inventive fillings. They also provide nationwide next-day delivery of their denser, thinner bagels.
4. The Bagel Project, Nottingham A recent addition in Nottingham’s Hockley area, The Bagel Project is making waves with creative fillings like loaded pulled pork topped with homemade barbecue sauce. Their smoked salmon with cream cheese is elevated with a drizzle of truffle oil, making it a gourmet treat.
5. The Bagel Guys, London In London's Hackney, The Bagel Guys was born out of a New Yorker’s craving for authentic NY-style bagels. Offering 100% sourdough bagels, this shop features standout options like The BEC and a vegan-friendly variant packed with pickled and fresh veggies.
6. Cooper’s Let’s Fress Deli, Manchester A family-run kosher deli in Prestwich, Manchester, Cooper’s Let’s Fress Deli is a local legend known for its extensive daily output of bagels for over 30 years. From classic fillings to unique deli items like pickled herring, they also serve fresh soups and breads, providing a full deli experience.
7. The Bagelry, Liverpool Starting as a home operation in 2013, The Bagelry now boasts two locations in Liverpool. They offer a variety of bagels, including unique flavors like blueberry, beetroot, and black forest. Creative fillings such as kimchi mushroom and Philly cheese steak make each visit a new adventure. Don’t miss their doughnuts and salted potato tots for a complete indulgence.

These seven establishments not only honor the traditional Jewish roots of the bagel but also embrace innovation, making each a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of the best bagels in the UK.