Shops Open on Christmas Day 2025: A Complete Guide to Last-Minute Shopping

The Reality of Christmas Day Shopping in the UK

Christmas Day in the UK (Thursday, 25 December 2025) is famously quiet on the retail front, with the vast majority of shops remaining closed to allow staff to spend the holiday with their families. All major supermarket brands are closed on Christmas Day (including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Aldi, Lidl, Morrisons, M&S, Iceland, Co‑op, Waitrose). This closure is supported by trading laws in England and Wales that restrict large retailers from opening on 25 December, though many national retailers choose to close to give staff Christmas Day off, even where exemptions exist.

Where to Find Essentials on Christmas Day

Despite the widespread closures, a few options remain available for those who need last-minute items. Motorway service stations, many petrol forecourts, and a rota of pharmacies typically remain accessible. Motorway service areas are required to be open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — including Christmas Day, offering travel shops and forecourt stores where customers can purchase basic groceries, snacks, and fuel.

There is no requirement for garages to close on Christmas Day — and many stations (particularly major networks and 24-hour sites) will trade, though hours may vary by location. Over 750 Boots pharmacies will be open on one or more festive bank holidays, providing essential medical supplies and prescriptions for those in need. Additionally, you might find some smaller independent shops that are open as well as some convenience shops, particularly in urban areas.

Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Christmas

The key to avoiding festive panic is preparation. Your festive food shop needs to be finished by Christmas Eve, as major retailers typically close their doors by 7pm on 24 December. Shoppers are advised to complete their main grocery shopping several days before Christmas to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure all essential items are secured.

For those who forget something crucial, small convenience stores, petrol station shops, and motorway services offer limited backup options, though product selection will be significantly reduced compared to regular shopping days. The importance of planning ahead cannot be overstated, as Christmas Day represents one of the quietest retail days of the year across the United Kingdom, reflecting both legal requirements and the cultural tradition of prioritising family time over commercial activity.