Christmas Day Trading Hours in the UK 2025: What’s Open on December

Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25, 2025) is a bank holiday across the UK, and most major shops, supermarkets, and off-licences (bottle shops/liquor stores) are closed to give staff time off. Trading laws in England and Wales require large stores (over 280 sqm) to close on Christmas Day, with similar practices in Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you’re searching for “shops open on Christmas Day UK,” “supermarkets open Christmas Day,” or “off licences open Christmas Day,” here’s the latest guide based on current retailer announcements.

Major Supermarkets: All Closed on Christmas Day

The big chains shut down completely on December 25, with limited or no exceptions for main stores:

• Tesco — All stores closed (including Extra, Superstores, and most Express). Some smaller convenience formats may vary, but expect closures.
• Sainsbury’s — All branches closed (supermarkets and most Local/convenience stores).
• Asda — Larger superstores closed. Some Asda Express (especially those attached to petrol stations) may open with reduced hours or 24/7 in select locations—check your local via the Asda store locator.
• Aldi — All stores closed.
• Lidl — All stores closed.
• Morrisons — All main stores closed; some smaller Daily/convenience formats may open in limited cases.
• Marks & Spencer (M&S) — All main stores and foodhalls closed.
• Waitrose — Most closed, with rare exceptions at select motorway/Welcome Break service stations.

Stock up on Christmas Eve (many stores close early, e.g., 6-7pm for larger branches, up to 10pm for some Express).

Off-Licences & Alcohol Sales: Mostly Closed

Traditional off-licences (bottle shops) and supermarket alcohol sections follow the same rules—alcohol sales are unavailable in closed stores. Independent or small off-licences may open if under the size threshold, but most choose to close. No widespread openings reported for 2025; plan ahead and buy on Christmas Eve.

What Might Be Open? Limited Options for Essentials

While big retail shuts down, these are your best bets for basics like milk, snacks, medicine, batteries, or fuel:

• Petrol stations & forecourts — Many (e.g., those attached to Asda Express, independent garages, or 24-hour sites) stay open, often 24/7. Great for quick grabs, though prices may be higher.
• Motorway service stations — Required to operate 365 days a year (e.g., Welcome Break, Moto). Expect convenience stores, forecourts, and limited food outlets (WHSmith often 24 hours). Access may be restricted to forecourt areas during quiet times.
• Pharmacies — Some open on a rota basis (e.g., Boots has over 60 open on Christmas Day nationwide). Use the NHS pharmacy locator for your area—ideal for urgent meds.
• Small independent/convenience stores — Corner shops, local newsagents, or very small stores (under 280 sqm) can legally open and often do for essentials. Availability varies hugely by location—check locally.
• Fast food & takeaways — Select McDonald’s, KFC, or others in service stations/travel hubs may operate; delivery apps like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat run throughout.

Quick Tips for Christmas Day

• Plan ahead — Do your main shop on Christmas Eve (extended hours in many places).
• Use store locators — Always verify your specific branch via official websites/apps (e.g., Tesco Store Finder, Asda Locator).
• Regional notes — Scotland and Northern Ireland follow similar patterns, though some convenience options may differ slightly.
• Emergencies — Pharmacies and petrol stations are the most reliable.

Most stores reopen (often reduced) on Boxing Day (December 26), with normal trading resuming soon after. Enjoy your Christmas Day, and happy holidays from World Report Press!  For real-time updates, check official retailer sites or local news.