Fish Index — UK, Ireland & Nordic Fish & Seafood Industry Directory
Cockles are small, edible saltwater clams, significant to the UK and Irish seafood industry. Primarily gathered from intertidal sands and mudflats, particularly in estuaries across the UK.
Peak season for cockle harvesting is typically from late spring to autumn, though availability can vary. Closures may occur for stock recovery.
Sustainability varies by fishery; some UK cockle fisheries are MSC certified, indicating healthy stocks and responsible management. Buyers should check specific fishery status.
Popular in traditional British dishes like 'cockles and mussels', often steamed, boiled, or pickled. Also used in pasta dishes and seafood platters.
Key landing areas include the Thames Estuary, Morecambe Bay, and parts of Wales. Significant for local economies and often processed for fresh and preserved markets.
Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down District
Wells-Next-The-Sea, North Norfolk District
Portavogie, Ards and North Down
Kilkeel, Newry Mourne and Down District
Appledore, Devon
Tiverton, Mid Devon District
Ardglass, Newry Mourne and Down District
Haverfordwest, Sir Benfro - Pembrokeshire
Whitstable, Canterbury
London, Tower Hamlets (London Borough)
Llanmorlais, Abertawe - Swansea
Dublin, Dublin