Are Petrol Stations Open on Christmas Day? What UK Drivers Need to Know

The Importance of Planning Fuel Stops on Christmas Day

For millions of UK drivers travelling to visit family and friends on Christmas Day, knowing where to refuel is essential. While many shops shut entirely on 25 December, fuel availability doesn’t disappear altogether, though it does become more limited. Understanding which petrol stations remain open can help prevent unnecessary stress during holiday travel.

Motorway Service Stations: Your Most Reliable Option

Motorway service stations are exempt from the trading rules that apply to regular shops, and petrol stations also have different regulations. Major operators such as Moto, Welcome Break, Roadchef and Extra typically keep their petrol pumps running 24 hours a day, all year round, including on Christmas Day. These service areas are required by law to provide fuel, food, drink and toilet facilities to drivers throughout the festive period.

During very quiet times (like on Christmas Day) you may only be able to go to the petrol station to use the coffee machine and grab a sandwich, but this still fulfils what is expected of them. While some shops and restaurants within service stations may operate reduced hours, the forecourts themselves remain accessible.

Major Branded Petrol Stations and Supermarket Forecourts

Nearly every Esso, Shell and BP petrol station, the largest chains in the UK, will be open tomorrow. Most pumps operated by brands like Shell, BP and Esso will be available to use, though their shops and other in-store services like toilets may be limited. Many of these stations offer pay-at-pump services, allowing drivers to refuel even when staff are not present.

However, the picture is different for supermarket petrol stations. Stations tied to supermarkets usually follow the Christmas Day closures of their stores, and this year includes the likes of Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, whose forecourts will close alongside their main stores. This represents a significant reduction in available options for drivers in many areas.

Planning Ahead Is Essential

With reduced options on Christmas Day, drivers are strongly advised to plan their journeys carefully. Checking your local petrol station’s Christmas opening hours online or via mapping apps before setting off can save time. Filling up your tank on Christmas Eve is the safest option to avoid any potential issues.

While Christmas Day fuel options are more limited than usual, drivers are unlikely to be left completely stranded, provided they plan ahead and know where to look. For those making longer journeys, motorway service stations offer the most reliable guarantee of fuel availability throughout the festive period.