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Wales Online
Wales Online
Lifestyle
David Prince

Looking back at when Harry Ramsden's opened in Cardiff Bay back in 1995

During the mid-'90s Cardiff Bay was nothing like it is today, a hub for holidaymakers, theatre-goers and diners. Back then the area was crying out for businesses to open and, in 1995, Harry Ramsden's Fish & Chip shop answered the call.

Since 1928 Harry Ramsden's has been bringing their world-famous fish and chips to the nation, originally opening up in Guiseley, West Yorkshire before becoming a staple across the rest of the UK.

The fish and chip giant opened up in Cardiff Bay in October that year to huge fanfare and quickly won the hearts of its customers.

Read More: 15 things you could do in 1980s Cardiff that you can't do now

There was something special about a visit to Harry's, be it the grand opulence of the restaurant to the poshest fish and chips one could and would dare to buy.

Cooking some of the best fish and chips around, Harry Ramsden's stood as one of the main places to visit down the bay for over a decade. However, in August 2012, the writing was on the wall as the fish and chip franchise said it was in advanced negotiations to give up the lease on its Cardiff Bay restaurant to JD Wetherspoon.

The Harry Ramsden's fish and chip restaurant in Cardiff Bay, shortly after its opening in October 1995. (Mirrorpix)

Here we have a selection of pictures of the better times when Harry came to Wales and conquered the national dish of fish and chips.

What were your favourite memories of the restaurant and can you spot yourself in any of these pictures?

Anyone else fancy a chippy tea after seeing these pictures? (Mirrorpix)

The restaurant in Cardiff Bay was rather special with its grand interior, the palatial ceilings and chandeliers meant that you felt special by dining there and of course some of the best fish and mushy peas ever.

Did you ever try one of the challenges and if so did you finish it?

How the Harry Ramsden's in Cardiff Bay used to look not long after it opened in 1995 (Mirrorpix)

If you go down to Stuart Square, you will see that it is now a Wetherspoons, and while they no doubt serve nice food, they will never beat or compete with a Harry Ramsden's fish and chips.

Did you visit the restaurant when it opened in 1995? (Mirrorpix)

The restaurant was a huge success when it opened and was one of the main places to go for a birthday or a big occasion.
Please let us know your favourite memories of Harry's fish and chips.

Looking pristine just after it opened (Mirrorpix)

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