As Christmas Day approaches, many across the UK begin planning their festivities. While for some that means cooking a traditional roast, others may be wondering whether they can skip the oven altogether and enjoy something fast, familiar, and delicious. This leads to a common question every year, is McDonald’s open on Christmas in the UK?
Whether you’re travelling, working, or simply craving a Big Mac instead of Brussels sprouts, this guide explores McDonald’s Christmas opening hours, where to find open branches, and what to expect on Boxing Day and beyond.
Are McDonald’s Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in the UK?
Christmas Day is one of the rare occasions when most McDonald’s restaurants in the UK close their doors. With more than 1,400 locations nationwide, McDonald’s offers widespread convenience throughout the year. However, on 25 December, most of these outlets shut down to give staff time off to spend with their families.
It’s important to note that McDonald’s operates under a franchise model, with approximately 80% of its UK branches being franchised. This means individual franchise owners can determine their own opening hours, including on Christmas Day.
As a result, a small selection of locations, usually in major cities or high-traffic areas, may remain open with limited or adjusted hours.
If you’re considering stopping by your local McDonald’s this Christmas, you’ll need to check ahead, and we’ll show you how later in this post.
Which McDonald’s Locations Are Open on Christmas Day 2025?
While most McDonald’s stores will be closed on 25 December, a handful of branches will welcome customers throughout the day. These are typically found in central London, busy urban locations, and motorway service areas.
Confirmed McDonald’s Stores Open on Christmas Day (2025):
Here is a selection of confirmed McDonald’s locations that will open on Christmas Day, along with their hours of operation:
| Location | Opening Hours |
| Hackney, London | Open 24 hours |
| Islington, London | Open 24 hours |
| Edgware Road, London | 8am – 10pm |
| Coventry | 7am – 2pm |
| Olten, West Midlands | 7am – 2pm |
| Neasden, London | 11am – 7pm |
| Shirley, Solihull | 7am – 2pm |
| Kitts Green, Birmingham | 7am – 3pm |
| City Road, London | Open 24 hours |
| Tamworth, Staffordshire | 7am – 3pm |
| Beckton, London | Open 24 hours |
| Holloway Road, London | 11am – 10pm |
| Highbury Corner, London | 9am – 10pm |
Please note that opening times may change at short notice. Always check using McDonald’s store locator before travelling.
Why Do Some People Visit McDonald’s on Christmas Day?
Christmas may traditionally be associated with home-cooked meals, but for a variety of reasons, not everyone celebrates the day the same way.
Common Reasons People Choose McDonald’s on Christmas:
- Non-celebrants: Not all communities observe Christmas, making McDonald’s a convenient and inclusive food option.
- Essential workers: NHS staff, delivery drivers, police, and emergency workers often work on Christmas and need a quick meal during their shifts.
- Travellers: Many people are on the road visiting family and may stop at McDonald’s along their journey.
- Alternative traditions: Some families simply prefer fast food to traditional Christmas fare.
- Convenience: A hot meal without preparation or clean-up appeals to many, especially those spending the day alone or working late.
Is McDelivery Available on Christmas Day and Boxing Day?
McDelivery has become a go-to option for many UK households, especially during the colder months. However, availability during the festive period can be limited.
Whether or not you can get a McDelivery on Christmas Day depends entirely on two factors:
- Whether your nearest McDonald’s is open.
- Whether delivery partners such as Uber Eats, Just Eat, or Deliveroo are operational in your area at that time.
On Christmas Eve, McDelivery typically follows the restaurant’s reduced hours. On Christmas Day, only those select restaurants that are open may offer delivery, depending on staffing and demand. By Boxing Day, most locations resume delivery with fewer restrictions.
It’s advisable to use the McDonald’s app or website to check real-time delivery availability on both days.
What Are McDonald’s Boxing Day Opening Hours Across the UK?
After the brief Christmas closure, Boxing Day sees the majority of McDonald’s branches reopen. However, not all locations return to normal hours immediately. Many operate on reduced holiday hours on 26 December before resuming their usual schedules on the 27th.
Sample Boxing Day Hours:
| Location | Boxing Day Hours |
| Manchester Oxford Road | 11am – 7pm |
| Cobham Services, Surrey | Open 24 hours |
| Wembley Park, London | Open 24 hours |
| Ealing Broadway, London | Open 24 hours |
| Uttoxeter, Staffordshire | 7am – 2pm |
To avoid disappointment, check each store’s hours in advance.
How Can You Check If Your Local McDonald’s is Open on Christmas?
Since opening times vary significantly, the most reliable way to find out if your local McDonald’s is open is by using the restaurant locator on their official website or app.
This tool allows users to enter their postcode and see live information on:
- Holiday opening hours
- Delivery availability
- Drive-thru and dine-in options
Calling the branch directly or checking its Google Maps listing for festive hours is also advisable.
Are Any McDonald’s Service Stations or Motorway Locations Open on Christmas?
For those travelling long distances across the UK during the festive season, motorway service stations offer convenient rest stops. Fortunately, some McDonald’s locations situated at service areas tend to stay open, catering to motorists and transport professionals.
These locations are more likely to operate on Christmas Day compared to high street branches.
Examples of Motorway Locations Likely Open:
| Service Station McDonald’s | Likely Opening Status |
| Cobham (Surrey) – M25 | Open 24 hours |
| Swavesey (Cambridgeshire) – A14 | Open 24 hours |
| Tamworth Wilnecote – Staffordshire | 7am – 2pm |
It’s important to remember that even these high-traffic locations may adjust their hours based on staff availability and weather conditions.
What Other Fast Food Restaurants Are Open on Christmas in the UK?
If your local McDonald’s is closed on Christmas Day, you might wonder whether any other fast-food restaurants are operating. While options remain limited, a few major chains do keep select locations open.
Commonly Open Restaurants:
- Starbucks
- Burger King
- Subway
- KFC (in limited locations)
These chains often have similar franchise structures to McDonald’s, meaning only select branches will be open. Be sure to confirm opening times before making the trip. Conversely, many popular chains remain closed, such as Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Taco Bell.
What’s Coming Next at McDonald’s After Christmas?
Looking ahead, McDonald’s is preparing to launch a new “secret menu” in January 2026. The menu will include five new items, creating excitement among loyal fans as they recover from the Christmas rush.
Expected new additions include:
- Surf N Turf Burger (double cheeseburger with fillet-o-fish patty)
- Chicken Cheeseburger
- Apple Pie Mini McFlurry
- Espresso Shake
- Big Mac Sauce Dip
Returning fan favourites like the Galaxy Caramel McFlurry, Chicken Big Mac, and Chilli Cheese Bites will also feature. This anticipated launch gives McDonald’s fans something else to look forward to in the new year.
Conclusion
In summary, most McDonald’s restaurants in the UK will be closed on Christmas Day, but a select few, especially in London, West Midlands, and major service stations, will remain open for those looking to enjoy a festive Big Mac or a convenient coffee.
Whether you’re working, travelling, or just avoiding the kitchen, there’s still a chance to satisfy your McDonald’s cravings on Christmas Day. The key takeaway? Always check ahead using the restaurant locator or app, as hours vary by location and can change at short notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McDonald’s serve breakfast on Christmas Day?
Only in branches that are open early and operating full menus. Breakfast availability will vary, so checking with your local branch is essential.
Can I place a McDelivery order on Christmas morning?
Yes, but only if your local McDonald’s is open and the delivery service is available in your area at that time.
Is McDonald’s open 24 hours during Christmas?
A few select locations, particularly in London, operate 24 hours on Christmas Day. However, most do not.
What are McDonald’s Christmas Eve hours in the UK?
Most locations open on Christmas Eve but may close earlier than usual, typically between 6pm and 9pm.
Why do some McDonald’s stay open on Christmas Day?
High-demand areas such as city centres or service stations may stay open to serve essential workers, travellers, and non-celebrants.
Is McDonald’s drive-thru open on Christmas Day?
Where McDonald’s branches are open, drive-thrus often remain operational. However, availability may be reduced based on staffing.
Are motorway service McDonald’s open on Christmas Day?
Yes, a handful of service station McDonald’s are open on 25 December to accommodate holiday traffic and long-distance travel.
