Frequently asked questions
Your questions about Bridlington Bay Seafood, answered
Whether you’re buying local lobster for a special occasion, cooking shellfish at home for the first time, or simply curious about the people and practices behind our seafood, this page brings together the questions we’re most often asked.
From availability and storage to sustainability and traceability, here’s everything you need to know about Bridlington Bay Seafood.
When is lobster in season on the East Yorkshire coast?
Lobster is available for much of the year, but the main landing season runs from July to September, when catches from the East Yorkshire coast are at their highest. Availability generally increases through spring and summer, and becomes more variable in winter, when native lobsters move further offshore and landings drop.
What types of shellfish come from Bridlington Bay?
Bridlington Bay is best known for its lobster, but the coastline also lands exceptional brown crab, velvet crab and whelks, valued for their flavour and freshness.
How do I know my lobster is genuinely from Bridlington Bay?
Shellfish sold under the Bridlington Bay name is:
- locally caught within Bridlington Bay
- landed on the East Yorkshire coast
- inspected to strict quality standards
- fully traceable back to a named vessel, merchant or business
This traceability is built into every step of the supply chain.
Look out for the Bridlington Bay Lobster or Bridlington Bay Seafood logo.
Is Bridlington Bay lobster sustainably caught?
How should I store cooked lobster?
Store cooked lobster in the fridge and use within 48 hours. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the meat for up to three months - freezing it with a little melted butter helps retain moisture.
How do I prepare a cooked lobster at home?
Preparing a cooked lobster is simple:
- Twist off the claws and crack the shells.
- Separate the tail from the body and push the tail meat out.
- Remove the digestive vein.
- Snip the knuckles and extract the meat.
Full steps can be found on our recipes page.
Where can I buy Bridlington Bay lobster?
You can buy locally caught lobster from independent fishmongers along the East Yorkshire coast, as well as select restaurants and suppliers specialising in local seafood. See a list of suppliers.
Is it better to buy lobster cooked or raw?
For most home cooks, cooked lobster is the easiest and most convenient option and all our recipes are designed for it.
Fishmongers can cook and prepare the lobster for you, saving time and reducing any uncertainty.
How should I choose the freshest lobster or crab?
Look for shellfish that feels heavy for its size, has a clean, fresh scent, and has been kept chilled or stored correctly. Your fishmonger can guide you to what’s freshest that day.
What makes Bridlington the “Lobster Capital of Europe”?
Bridlington consistently lands more lobster than anywhere else in Europe, with over 300 tonnes landed each year. This reputation comes from the scale of the fishery, the quality of the catch, and the skills of the local community.
