THE Festive period sees supermarkets working on a revised schedule.
The Christmas supermarket panic is always a nightmare when it comes to opening hours, but here’s all the need-to-know times for the 2025 holiday season.
Many stores are operating with significantly reduced hours or closing entirely on Thursday, December 25, 2025, so make sure you do not get caught out while hunting for that last-minute cranberry sauce.
While most high streets fall silent on Christmas Day, a few select locations and services remain available for those in need of a quick fix or a festive drink.
Generally, all major supermarket chains will shut their doors on Christmas Day to give staff a well-earned break.
However, some convenience branches and petrol stations may vary.
So, when exactly will your favourite supermarket be open?
Aldi
Aldi has confirmed that all of its stores across the UK will be CLOSED on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
- Christmas Eve: 7am – 6pm
- Christmas Day: CLOSED
- Boxing Day: CLOSED
- Dec 27 – Dec 30: 8am – 8pm (normal hours resume)
Asda
Most Asda superstores will close their doors at 7pm on Christmas Eve and will remain closed on Christmas Day.
- Christmas Eve: 5am – 7pm
- Christmas Day: CLOSED
- Boxing Day: 9am – 6pm
- New Year’s Day: 9am – 6pm
Tesco
Tesco has confirmed that all of its large Extra stores and Superstores will be closed on Christmas Day.
- Christmas Eve: Superstores close at 7pm; Express stores close at 10pm.
- Christmas Day: CLOSED (including Petrol Filling Stations)
- Boxing Day: Superstores open 9am – 6pm; Express stores open 9am – 7pm.
Sainsbury’s
The vast majority of Sainsbury’s supermarkets will be closed on Christmas Day.
- Christmas Eve: 6am – 7pm
- Christmas Day: CLOSED
- Boxing Day: 8am – 8pm
Morrisons
While the main Morrisons stores are closed on Christmas Day, the retailer has noted that some Morrisons Daily convenience stores may remain open.
- Christmas Eve: 6am – 6pm
- Christmas Day: Main stores CLOSED
- Boxing Day: 9am – 6pm (All stores)
Lidl
Lidl follows a strict closure policy for the big day.
- Christmas Eve: 7am – 6pm
- Christmas Day: CLOSED
- Boxing Day: CLOSED (Except inside the M25 and London, which may open 10am – 6pm)
What is open?
If you’re looking for a hot meal or a quick pint, you have a few options:
McDonald’s. While most Golden Arches close, a select 28 branches will remain open.
- 24-Hour Locations: Hackney, Islington, and Wembley Park will operate from 05:00 to 04:59.
- London Central: Edgware Road and Swiss Cottage will be open 08:00 – 22:00.
- Midlands: Coventry and Shirley branches are open 07:00 – 14:00.
Wetherspoons The pub giant, has confirmed that 683 pubs will open on Christmas Day.
- Hours: 11am – 3pm
- Service: Drinks only (No food will be served).
Poundland, Next, and Dobbies – These major retailers have all confirmed they will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day to support their staff.
