Is McDonald’s Open on Boxing Day? What You Need to Know

McDonald’s Boxing Day Opening Hours: The Essential Guide

As Boxing Day arrives and many UK retailers close their doors to give staff a well-deserved break, hungry customers are asking: is McDonald’s open on Boxing Day? The answer is yes, but with some important caveats that shoppers need to know before heading out.

Most McDonald’s Locations Open on Boxing Day

While most McDonald’s outlets close on Christmas Day, select branches—particularly in larger cities like London and Birmingham—remain open on Boxing Day, with locations in Hackney, Islington, and Wembley Park expected to operate with extended hours. However, the fast-food giant’s franchise model means that 93% of restaurants are operated by independent business owners who can decide their own hours, so there’s a chance that your local branch will be open during the holidays, but it’s not a guarantee.

Why Boxing Day Hours Matter

Boxing Day has traditionally been one of the busiest shopping days in the UK, though it was once synonymous with packed high streets and major in-store sales, but in recent years many large retailers have chosen to close their stores on 26 December, reflecting a shift in priorities across the industry. With major chains like M&S, Next, and John Lewis closing on Boxing Day 2024, fast-food options like McDonald’s become even more important for those seeking a quick meal during the holiday.

How to Check Your Local McDonald’s

To avoid disappointment, customers should verify their local restaurant’s Boxing Day hours before visiting. Only a handful of McDonald’s restaurants open on Christmas Day, so customers should refer to the restaurant locator to confirm if their local restaurant is open during the Christmas period and what times they are trading. The same advice applies to Boxing Day. McDonald’s UK website offers a restaurant locator tool where you can search by postcode or city to find specific opening times for your nearest branch.

What to Expect on Boxing Day

For those McDonald’s locations that do open on Boxing Day, hours are typically adjusted from their regular schedules. Historical data shows that branches often operate with reduced hours, opening later in the morning and closing earlier in the evening to allow staff some holiday time. Drive-through services and delivery options through platforms like Uber Eats and Just Eat may also be available at participating locations, offering convenient alternatives to dining in.