Every year, Tesco releases a list of the top 50 items shoppers buy on Christmas Eve. Last year, the top seller was fresh cream (for the pudding), followed by bacon (for the morning-after breakfast). Other staples? Lotto tickets (a tradition), tinfoil (for leftovers), and, oddly enough, antacid tablets.
Tesco Christmas and Boxing Day opening and closing hours 2026
Oh, and a fun fact: Tesco sells enough mince pies on Christmas Eve to feed a small army. Specifically, around 2.5 million are sold that single day. That’s roughly one pie for every person in Scotland. So yes, if you want one, get there early.
What Happens If You Miss the Cutoff?
Don’t panic. You have options beyond a tearful trip to the corner shop. First, check if a local Tesco Express is open later—many near train stations or busy high streets stay open until 9 PM. Second, petrol station Tescos often operate on reduced hours until 10 PM, though stock is basic (think crisps, beer, and maybe eggs).
If all else fails, embrace the “Christmas improvisation.” Swap cranberry sauce for redcurrant jelly. Use roasted chickpeas instead of chestnuts. No one will notice—especially after the second glass of mulled wine.
