Top 10 British Pub Snacks

British pub snacks are like a warm hug for your taste buds - simple, satisfying, and packed with nostalgia. Whether you’re a Brit abroad or just curious about what makes a pub snack so special, here’s the lowdown. From crunchy pork scratchings to tangy pickled eggs, these snacks pair perfectly with a pint and offer a slice of UK pub culture. The best part? You don’t have to fly across the pond to enjoy them. At The Great British Shop, we’ve got all your favourites ready to ship across Canada.

Here’s the lineup of the top 10 snacks:

• Pork Scratchings: Crunchy, salty, and a pub classic.
• Scampi Fries: Crispy bites with a bold seafood flavour.
• Pickled Eggs: Tangy and sharp, straight from the jar.
• Salted Peanuts: Simple, salty, and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Potato Crisps: Flavours like cheese & onion or salt & vinegar.
• Scotch Eggs: A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage and breadcrumbs.
• Sausage Rolls: Flaky pastry stuffed with seasoned sausage.
• Mini Pies: Hearty fillings like steak & ale in buttery pastry.
• Ploughman’s Lunch: Cheese, bread, pickles, and chutney - a cold snack board.
• Bacon Fries: Smoky, crunchy crisps that scream pub snack.

Each one has its charm, but they all share that knack for making a pint taste even better. If you’re in Canada and missing these pub staples, we’ve got you covered. From pork scratchings to pickled eggs, you can grab all your favourites online or in-store. Cheers to that!

🇬🇧 Classic BRITISH Pub & Picnic Snacks You Should Try | Yummy Expedition

1. Pork Scratchings

There’s nothing quite as quintessentially British pub as pork scratchings. These crunchy morsels of deep-fried pork skin have been a staple in UK pubs since the 1800s, born out of the thrifty ingenuity of farmers who made sure no part of the pig went to waste.

The process to create these snacks is simple yet effective: the pork skin is first simmered, then deep-fried to achieve that signature crunch and lightly salted finish.

Why are they so popular? Well, according to a study, 72% of Brits have bought pork scratchings at the pub, and one in six pub-goers won’t settle for another snack if they’re not on offer.

"It's the unique flavour and total Britishness of the pork scratching that make them a 'must' to accompany our great beers. Asking pubs not to stock them is like not selling beer in pints, totally unthinkable in my book", says Julie Moss, managed house controller at Arkell's brewery.

The perfect pairing with beer isn’t a coincidence. A whopping 83% of pork snacks are enjoyed alongside a drink. The salty, fatty crunch of scratchings complements a pint beautifully - whether it’s a hoppy IPA or a crisp lager. The beer’s carbonation cuts through the richness, while the salt enhances the flavours of the brew. It’s a match made in pub heaven.

For British expats in Canada longing for a taste of home, The Great British Shop offers a selection of traditional pork scratchings. We know there’s nothing quite like the real deal when it comes to satisfying that nostalgic craving for proper pub snacks.

"There's a real sense of British culture and nostalgia when it comes to going to the pub and the good old-fashioned pork scratching ticks that box perfectly", shares Steven Bennett, head chef at the Healing Manor Hotel.

Every bite of these classic snacks brings a bit of Britain with it, letting you relive the authentic pub experience. When shopping for pork scratchings, look for brands that skip artificial preservatives and keep the sodium in check - ideal for recreating that proper British pub feel right at home.

2. Scampi Fries

Scampi Fries are a true classic when it comes to British pub snacks, offering a seafood-inspired flavour that’s hard to forget. These crunchy little bites are made from extruded cereal tubes, coated in rusk and breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection, delivering that unmistakable prawn taste.

What really sets Scampi Fries apart is their bold flavour - rich prawn notes with a tangy twist and just a hint of lemon. It’s the kind of taste that instantly transports you to a seaside pub. Interestingly, their history includes a surprising twist: in the past, Dover Sole flavouring was used instead of scampi.

These snacks aren’t just about taste - they’re steeped in tradition. John Porter, a respected pub food and drink writer and former Food Editor of The Publican, puts it best:

"They're snacks for grown-ups, sold off a card behind the bar and very much associated with pub culture... For many people, their first 'proper' pint in a pub was accompanied by a bag of Scampi Fries on the side. It's a rite of passage."

For British expats in Canada, Scampi Fries are more than just a snack - they’re a little piece of home. You can find them right here at The Great British Shop, where we bring you the best of imported British food and drink. Because sometimes, nothing pairs better with nostalgia than a pint and a bag of Scampi Fries. Cheers!

3. Pickled Eggs

Ah, pickled eggs - a true gem of British pub culture. These hard-boiled eggs, steeped in vinegar brine, have been gracing pub counters since the 19th century. Their tangy, sharp flavour not only adds a zesty kick but also serves a practical purpose: extending their shelf life while transforming them into a snack with a punch.

In Britain, you’ll often find these eggs nestled in glass jars, sitting proudly next to oversized gherkins. And let’s not forget their perfect pairing - a pint of bitter ale. There’s something about that sour snap of a pickled egg that cuts through the richness of a good brew.

Food preservation expert Suzanne Taylor sheds some light on why these eggs have stood the test of time:

"Pickling eggs is just one way of preserving eggs when they are plentiful...They're very easy to preserve and, if you make a really good spiced vinegar to preserve them in, can be really good...They are very good as an hors d'oeuvres or a relish. Very nutritious."

It’s not just pubs that celebrate this humble snack. Wander into a fish & chip shop, and you’re bound to spot a jar of pickled eggs on the counter. As Italian-British food enthusiast Riccardo Costanza puts it:

"Almost every fish & chip shop has a jar on the counter, so no pickled eggs would equal no fish & chips!"

He’s got a point. That acidic bite is the perfect foil for the rich, crispy goodness of battered fish and chips. It’s a match made in snack heaven.

If you’re feeling nostalgic for this quintessential British treat, The Great British Shop has you covered. We stock authentic pickled eggs, along with a wide selection of imported British foods and drinks. Whether you’re reminiscing about pub nights or craving a proper chip shop experience, our pickled eggs will bring a little taste of home to your table.

4. Salted Peanuts

Salted peanuts are a timeless pub favourite - a crunchy, salty treat that’s practically made to go hand-in-hand with a pint of your favourite brew.

At just 170 calories per 28g serving, they’re a gluten-free snack that’s easy to enjoy anywhere, whether you’re on the go or relaxing at home. For Canadians looking to recreate that authentic British pub vibe, salted peanuts are a must-have. Luckily, you can find them at The Great British Shop, along with a variety of other traditional British snacks. We’re proud to bring a taste of the UK to Canada with our selection of British groceries and imported treats.

These classic peanuts are the perfect companion to the other pub staples we’ll be diving into next. Cheers to that!

5. Potato Crisps

Ah, potato crisps - where would a proper British pub be without them? These crunchy, thinly sliced snacks have been a staple of pub culture since the early 1900s. There's just something about their satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with a pint, making them a beloved tradition.

In the UK, people consume an astonishing six billion packets of crisps every year. That’s a lot of crunching! And it’s no wonder, with flavours that have stood the test of time, like salt and vinegar, cheese and onion, prawn cocktail, and smokey bacon. Each one brings its own twist on classic British tastes.

For those of us here in Canada who long for the real deal, sourcing authentic UK crisps can feel like an impossible task. That’s where we come in at The Great British Shop. We pride ourselves on being your go-to British grocer for all things deliciously British. From imported British food to a wide range of British groceries and UK snacks, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re planning a pub night at home or just craving a taste of Britain, you can easily buy British food online in Canada and stock up on these iconic crisps.

So, grab a packet, enjoy the crunch, and let those timeless flavours take you straight to a cosy British pub.

Now, let’s move on to the next pub favourite...

6. Scotch Eggs

Scotch eggs are the kind of snack that feels like a little culinary hug - crispy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Picture this: a hard-boiled egg wrapped in seasoned sausage meat, coated in golden breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection. It’s not just a snack; it’s a meal in disguise.

These tasty treats have been a fixture in British pubs since the early 20th century, but their roots stretch back much further. Some food historians reckon they were inspired by Indian koftas, which adds a fascinating twist to their story. Whether you’re nibbling on one at a pub or packing it for a picnic, Scotch eggs have an undeniable charm.

What makes them so brilliant is their versatility. Fresh out of the fryer, they’re a warm, crispy delight. But even cold, they hold their own as a convenient, grab-and-go option. In Britain, they’re often served with a dab of mustard, a dollop of mayo, or a spoonful of chutney for dipping. Pair them with chips, a fresh salad, or some tangy pickles, and you’ve got yourself a proper meal. From starters to late-night snacks, Scotch eggs fit the bill.

Now, here in Canada, finding an authentic Scotch egg can be a bit of a challenge. That’s where The Great British Shop comes in. We stock imported Scotch eggs along with a wide range of British groceries, bringing the flavours of Britain straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re shopping online or visiting us in person, we’ve got you covered.

So, whether you’re planning a British-themed party or just craving that comforting pub vibe at home, Scotch eggs are your go-to. They’re more than just food - they’re a little piece of Britain you can hold in your hand.

sbb-itb-decb2b4

7. Sausage Rolls

Let’s talk about another pub staple that’s as British as a rainy day in November: sausage rolls. These golden parcels of joy are a true reflection of British pub culture. Imagine seasoned pork sausage, wrapped snugly in flaky puff pastry, baked to perfection - crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside. Simple, yet absolutely brilliant.

Food writer Jake O'Brien Murphy puts it perfectly:

"The sausage roll's appeal as a bar snack is in its straightforward, steadfast form. A flaky, pork-filled baton of enduring utility. A true friend to all. It is what I think of as a silhouette food much like the burger, hotdogs or pizza - something universally understood without any need for explanation."

And he’s spot on. Sausage rolls are easy to grab, easy to eat, and they pair beautifully with a pint. No fuss, no mess - just good, hearty food.

They’re wildly popular too. A whopping 76% of Brits can’t resist them, with millions sold every week. Murphy calls them "the drinker's best friend", and it’s not hard to see why. The seasoned pork and buttery pastry hit all the right notes, satisfying your hunger without leaving you feeling stuffed.

What makes a sausage roll truly British? It’s all in the details. British sausage meat has a finer grind than its North American counterpart and often includes breadcrumbs or rusk for texture. The seasoning is key - think sage, nutmeg, mace, onion powder, and garlic powder. And don’t underestimate the importance of the sausage-to-pastry ratio. Over half of Brits agree that getting this balance right is non-negotiable.

If you’re craving proper British pub snacks, The Great British Shop has you covered. We stock a fantastic range of imported British groceries, so you can enjoy authentic flavours right here in Canada.

But sausage rolls are more than just a tasty bite. They’re social food at its finest. Whether you’re sharing a plate at a casual gathering or serving them at a full-on British-themed bash, they bring people together. Warm, flaky, and full of flavour, they create that cosy pub vibe, no matter where you are.

8. Mini Pies

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm mini pie. These little pastry parcels are just the thing for a proper pub experience - small enough to hold in one hand while your pint’s in the other, but hearty enough to fill the gap without the need for a full meal.

At their core, mini pies are savoury pastries stuffed with seasoned minced meat, often paired with vegetables and a rich gravy. You’ll find classic fillings like steak and ale, chicken and mushroom, or minced beef and onion. The secret to their appeal lies in the combination of a sturdy shortcrust pastry base and a flaky puff-pastry lid - it’s the perfect package for keeping all that delicious filling intact.

When served piping hot, mini pies are the ultimate comfort food. The buttery, flaky pastry paired with the savoury, rich filling creates a satisfying mix of textures and flavours. Some pubs even offer gourmet twists, with fillings like steak in ale gravy, butter chicken balti, or roasted vegetables with a red pesto pastry. Whether you’re sticking to the classics or trying something a bit more adventurous, there’s a mini pie for every taste.

The history of savoury pies in British pubs is as rich as the fillings themselves. Originally, they were a practical meal for travellers and workers - easy to carry and filling enough to keep you going. Over time, they became a staple of pub culture, where hearty, no-fuss food pairs perfectly with a pint. This connection to tradition and their comforting flavours have cemented mini pies as a beloved pub snack.

For those in Canada looking to enjoy a proper British mini pie, The Great British Shop has you covered. As your go-to British grocer, we bring a range of imported British groceries right to your doorstep. Whether you’re in Halifax or elsewhere in Canada, you can easily order online and savour authentic British food and drink, including these classic pub treats.

Mini pies are a shining example of pub food done right - offering the satisfying heartiness of a meal in a format that’s easy, social, and perfectly suited to a cold pint.

9. Ploughman's Lunch

The Ploughman's Lunch is a classic cold meal that turns humble ingredients into something special. Picture a rustic wooden board piled with crusty bread, a variety of British cheeses, tangy pickled onions, and a generous helping of Branston pickle or chutney. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.

As food writer Karen Burns-Booth aptly explains:

"A traditional Ploughman's Lunch is more an assembly job than a recipe. Its main components are cheese, crusty bread and butter, pickles, chutney and salad vegetables."

The essentials start with a hearty bread - wholemeal or whole grain is the usual choice - paired with cheeses like sharp cheddar, Stilton, or Red Leicester. The pickles are non-negotiable: think zesty pickled onions and gherkins, which cut through the richness of the cheese. Add a dollop of Branston pickle or chutney, and you’ve got a perfect balance of savoury, sweet, and sour.

While the traditional version is lovely as is, modern takes often include extras like ham, hard-boiled eggs, apple slices, or a handful of salad greens to add variety and a bit more substance. These additions keep the meal fresh and exciting without losing its roots.

One of the reasons the Ploughman’s Lunch remains a pub favourite is how beautifully it pairs with a cold pint of beer. The saltiness of the cheese and the tangy pickles seem made for sipping alongside a brew, creating a timeless combination.

If you’re in Canada and craving a taste of Britain, The Great British Shop has you covered. We stock all the essentials - from authentic British cheeses and Branston pickle to pickled onions and chutneys. Whether you’re recreating this iconic dish or just stocking up on your favourites, you can buy British food online and bring a bit of pub tradition to your table.

The charm of a Ploughman’s Lunch lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a celebration of good bread, quality cheese, and the joy of a well-crafted meal - best enjoyed with a pint in hand.

10. Bacon Fries

Bacon Fries are the ultimate savoury pub snack, perfectly capturing the essence of a proper British pub experience. These corn-based crisps are a lighter, crunchier alternative to traditional potato chips, with a texture that pairs beautifully with their bold bacon seasoning. The smoky flavour is rich but not overbearing, making it the perfect partner to your pint, adding to the experience without stealing the spotlight.

Smiths Bacon Fries have earned their spot as one of the brand’s top sellers, and it’s clear why. They’ve nailed the art of turning that classic bacon taste into a snack that’s both crunchy and satisfying. As Smiths puts it, these are a “much-loved savoury snack boasting an extra crunchy bacon taste.”

Bacon Fries aren’t just a snack - they’re a tradition. Deeply rooted in British pub culture, they’ve been a staple behind the bar for generations, symbolizing the transition from casual drinks to a full-on pub appreciation. They’re part of what makes the pub experience so unique, offering a grown-up snack that’s as much about nostalgia as it is about flavour.

What makes Bacon Fries shine is their perfect pairing with beer. The salty, smoky seasoning complements the flavours of your drink, while the satisfying crunch keeps you coming back for more. They’re filling enough to curb your hunger but light enough not to weigh you down.

For those in Canada craving a taste of the UK, The Great British Shop has you covered. We stock Smiths Bacon Fries so you can enjoy this iconic pub snack without hopping on a plane. Whether you’re planning a British pub night at home or just fancy trying a classic bar snack, you’ll find them here at a fair price. As your trusted source for imported British groceries, we’re here to bring a slice of Britain to your door.

Add Bacon Fries to your snack stash and savour the smoky crunch that’s been delighting pub-goers across the UK for decades. It’s a little bite of Britain, right here in Canada.

Comparison Table

Here's a handy guide to some classic British pub snacks and how they're typically served:

This table is a quick reference to the variety of textures, flavours, and serving styles that make British pub snacks so distinctive. From the crackly crunch of pork scratchings to the hearty mix of a Ploughman’s lunch, there’s something for everyone.

As Sue Tyley, the founder of Purely Pickled Eggs, famously said:

"Pickled eggs are like Marmite. Love them or hate them."

If you’re in Canada and fancy trying these classic pub favourites, The Great British Shop has got you covered. Whether it’s the tangy bite of a pickled egg or the smoky crunch of Bacon Fries, we deliver these authentic snacks right to your doorstep.

Some snacks are best served warm, like mini pies and sausage rolls, while others, like crisps and pork scratchings, are perfect at room temperature. For more details, check out our descriptions of each snack to find your perfect pub-style treat.

Conclusion

British pub snacks hold a special place in the hearts of many Canadians. They bring to mind the warmth of British culture and the charm of cosy pub evenings.

For expats and locals alike, there’s something magical about the crunch of pork scratchings or the tang of a pickled egg. These simple yet iconic snacks have a way of whisking you straight to a bustling pub in Manchester or London, making them more than just food - they’re a connection to a tradition that feels both comforting and timeless.

At The Great British Shop, we’ve made it our mission to bring these authentic British flavours to Canada. As we like to say:

"Welcome to The Great British Shop – your ultimate destination for authentic and imported British food and drinks in Canada!"

Whether you’re longing for the familiar taste of home or curious to try something new, these snacks offer a genuine slice of British life. From the satisfying richness of a Scotch egg to the perfectly seasoned crunch of crisps, every bite carries a story of tradition and community.

With low fixed-rate shipping across Canada, we make sure that your favourite British treats are always within reach. After all, good food has a way of connecting people - whether it’s at a pub table in Yorkshire or on a couch in your Canadian living room.

For authentic British groceries delivered anywhere in Canada, The Great British Shop is here to bring a taste of Britain right to your door.

FAQs

What makes British pub snacks stand out from other snacks?

British pub snacks hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of anyone familiar with the traditional pub scene. There’s something about classics like pork scratchings, pickled eggs, and scampi fries that feels like a comforting nod to Britain’s culinary past. These aren’t just snacks; they’re little bites of nostalgia, packed with bold, savoury flavours and satisfying crunches that seem tailor-made to go with a pint of beer or cider.

What sets them apart is their straightforward, hearty nature. No frills, no fuss - just honest-to-goodness snacks that bring a slice of British pub life to your plate. Whether you’re after something crispy, salty, or with a tangy kick, these snacks offer an experience that’s hard to find anywhere else, steeped in tradition and full of flavour.

How can I create an authentic British pub experience at home in Canada?

To bring the warm, welcoming vibe of a British pub into your Canadian home, start by creating the right atmosphere. Think soft, cosy lighting, traditional decor, and seating that invites you to linger. The food and drink are just as important - serve up classic pub snacks like pork scratchings, scampi fries, and the ever-quirky pickled eggs, paired with a selection of British beers or ales for that unmistakable pub feel.

For an extra layer of authenticity, stock your shelves with goodies from The Great British Shop. As a trusted British grocer in Canada, they’ve got everything from traditional UK snacks to iconic beverages and ingredients. Whether it’s a themed pub night with friends or a quiet evening in, you can recreate the flavours and charm of a proper British pub without stepping out your front door. Cheers! 🍻

Are there vegetarian-friendly options for classic British pub snacks?

If you're a fan of classic British pub snacks but prefer a vegetarian twist, you're in luck! These days, you can find vegetarian scampi fries, veggie sausage rolls, and crispy bean bites that bring all the flavour without the meat. They’re perfect for recreating that proper pub vibe at home. Craving a taste of Britain? Check out The Great British Shop - we’ve got a fantastic range of British groceries, including plenty of veggie-friendly options, right here in Canada!

Related posts

• Essential British Pantry Items: Complete Checklist
• British Food Questions: Expats Ask Most Often
• What Makes British Pickles Unique?
• British Sweets