
Listen. I've done some questionable things for a bargain, but queuing up at 9:45am for fish and chips that don't start serving until 11:30? That might take the cake.
But here's the thing – Harry Ramsden's in Bournemouth decided to throw prices back to 1928 for one day only. Seven bloody pence for fish and chips. My gran used to tell me stories about prices like that, and I always thought she was exaggerating the way old people do.
The Queue That Ate Bournemouth
By the time I got there (thinking I was being clever arriving early), the line already snaked around the block. Hundreds of us, all clutching our phones and making awkward small talk with strangers. The bloke next to me had driven down from Southampton. "My wife thinks I've lost it," he said, checking his watch for the tenth time.
She wasn't wrong.

Mohammed Shaikh, the general manager, later told reporters they'd prepared 1,928 portions – a nice touch with the year reference. They'd been planning this madness for eight months, which explains why everything ran so smoothly despite the chaos.
Why Beef Dripping Changes Everything
Here's what most people don't realize about this whole thing. It wasn't just about the price (though obviously that helped). Harry Ramsden's brought back their original beef dripping method for frying. You know, the way they used to do it before everyone got health-conscious and switched to vegetable oils.
The difference is... God, how do I explain this? It's like comparing a photocopy to an original painting. The beef dripping gives the batter this incredible depth of flavor that you just can't get any other way. My grandad would've lost his mind over this.
They kept a separate fryer for people with dietary requirements, which was thoughtful. Though I suspect most of us in that queue weren't exactly counting calories that day.

Community Spirit (Or Mass Hysteria?)
What struck me most was how genuinely happy everyone seemed. One woman near the front kept saying "Everyone's here, it's just beautiful. You can see the sea while you queue – can't beat that." She wasn't wrong – there are worse places to spend your morning than overlooking Bournemouth beach.
Another customer summed it up perfectly: "I know all about their history – my grandma, my granddad, we all love their fish and chips, and we love a good queue in this country, don't we?"
We really do. It's almost embarrassing how much we enjoy a proper queue when there's something worthwhile at teh end of it.
The Verdict
Was it worth the wait? Absolutely. The fish was perfectly flaky, the chips were golden and crispy, and that beef dripping flavor hit different. For 7p, I would've been happy with cardboard, but this was the real deal.
Plus they had this whole retro carnival setup with games and a sweet shop selling old-fashioned treats. My kids thought I was the coolest dad alive for about twenty minutes, which honestly might've been worth the queue time alone.
Harry Ramsden's also launched a loyalty program that day with 20% discounts and free dessert vouchers. Smart move – they'll probably see half that crowd back within the month, paying full price.
This whole thing reminded me of those VE Day celebrations earlier this month when pubs across the country rolled back their prices. There's something magical about nostalgia pricing that brings people together.
Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. Though next time I'm bringing a folding chair adn maybe a thermos of tea. Two hours is a long time to stand around, even for the best fish and chips in Britain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does inflation affect the value of money?
Inflation refers to the general rise in prices over time, which erodes the purchasing power of money. As inflation increases, each unit of currency buys fewer goods and services, meaning that the value of money decreases in terms of what it can purchase.
What are the risks associated with investing in the stock market?
Investing in the stock market involves several risks, including market volatility, economic downturns, and company-specific factors that can lead to losses. Investors may also face liquidity risk, where they cannot sell an investment quickly without incurring a loss. Diversification and thorough research can help mitigate these risks.
What is a budget deficit?
A budget deficit occurs when a government's expenditures exceed its revenues over a specific period, usually a fiscal year. This can lead to increased borrowing and national debt if not addressed through spending cuts or revenue increases.
How can I budget my money effectively?
To budget effectively, start by tracking your income and expenses to understand your spending habits. Set realistic financial goals, categorize your expenses, and allocate funds accordingly. Regularly review and adjust your budget to ensure it reflects your current financial situation and objectives.
What is the role of central banks in the economy?
Central banks manage a nation's currency, money supply, and interest rates. They implement monetary policy to control inflation, stabilize the currency, and foster economic growth. They also serve as lenders of last resort to the banking system during financial crises.
What is the importance of financial literacy?
Financial literacy is essential for making informed decisions about budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. It empowers individuals to understand financial concepts, evaluate risks, and navigate complex financial products, leading to better financial stability and long-term wealth building.
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Credit scores are numerical representations of an individual's creditworthiness, calculated based on credit history, payment behavior, and debt levels. They are important because they impact the ability to obtain loans, credit cards, and favorable interest rates, affecting overall financial health.
Statistics
- A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at some point in the past month.
- According to the Federal Reserve, approximately 39% of Americans do not have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency expense.
- A report by Bankrate indicated that only 29% of Americans have a written financial plan.
- According to a survey by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), about 66% of Americans could not correctly answer four basic financial literacy questions.
- According to the World Bank, around 1.7 billion adults worldwide remain unbanked, lacking access to basic financial services.
- As of 2021, the average American household had approximately $8,400 in credit card debt, according to Experian.
- Research by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that individuals who receive financial education are 25% more likely to save than those who do not.
- The average return on investment for the S&P 500 over the past 90 years is about 10% per annum.
External Links
How To
How To Build an Emergency Fund Effectively
Building an emergency fund is essential for financial security. Start by determining how much you need; a common recommendation is to save three to six months' worth of living expenses. Open a separate savings account to keep your emergency funds easily accessible but separate from your regular spending. Automate your savings by setting up a monthly transfer from your checking to your emergency fund. Initially, focus on small, manageable contributions, gradually increasing them as your budget allows. Avoid using this fund for non-emergencies, and replenish it after any withdrawals to maintain your financial safety net.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/money/that-holiday-text-could-cost-you-5000-and-i-almost-found-out-the-hard-way