TV Licensing

Your guide to this year’s Christmas TV lineup

Christmas isn’t complete without festive TV. From cosy dramas to laugh‑out‑loud comedies, these specials bring families together year after year. This year’s lineup is full of favourites and brand‑new shows to enjoy from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.

We’ve rounded up the must‑watch specials so you don’t miss a moment of the magic.

To watch live on any channel, stream live or on catch-up via BBC iPlayer, you’ll need a valid TV Licence. It’s quick and easy to get covered, so you can settle in and enjoy the shows you love without a hitch. 

Do you need a licence to watch your favourite Christmas specials?

Christmas TV brings familiar faces back to our screens. From the Doctor on a festive trip through time and space, the midwives of Poplar getting ready for Christmas, to plenty of fun and sparkle from your favourite quiz and game shows. 

Each year, millions tune in live to watch these unmissable moments as they happen. To do that, or to catch up later on BBC iPlayer, you’ll need a TV Licence.

Your licence covers:

• Watching or recording live TV on any channel
• Streaming live on apps, mobile devices, or on iPlayer
• Catching up later on iPlayer after broadcast

A licence makes sure you can enjoy all Christmas TV without interruption.

What’s on this festive season

The magic of Christmas TV lies in its ability to bring people together. Generations continue to gather on the sofa, to laugh, sing, or wipe away a tear during the finale of a much-loved show. This year’s festive schedule is bursting with familiar favourites and brand-new specials to keep everyone entertained.

All Creatures Great and Small Christmas Special (Channel 5 - 23rd December)

A heartwarming countryside celebration with the beloved veterinary team. 

Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Special (BBC One - Christmas Day)

Brendan O’Carroll returns with more festive chaos from the Brown household.

Catch up on past specials now on BBC iPlayer.

Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel Christmas Special (BBC One - Christmas Day)

Big laughs and big prizes in this seasonal edition of the hit game show.

Previous episodes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Ant & Dec’s Limitless Win Christmas Special (ITV1 - Christmas Day)

The nation’s favourite duo hosts a high-stakes quiz with a festive twist.

Coronation Street Christmas Special (ITV1 - Christmas Day)

Expect drama, romance, and surprises on the cobbles this Christmas.

Taskmaster Champion of Champions (Channel 4 - 22nd December)

Fan-favourite contestants return for a festive showdown of absurd challenges.

Would I Lie to You Christmas Special (BBC One – Boxing Day)

Festive fibs and laugh-out-loud tales as the panel try to separate holiday truth from merry mischief.

The most anticipated Christmas specials

These are the festive shows generating the most buzz this season, with returning favourites and standout new premieres.

Expect drama, laughter, and mystery as these specials light up the Christmas period.

Call the Midwife Christmas Special (BBC One)

This year’s special takes the midwives from Poplar to Hong Kong in a dramatic and emotional storyline.

Relive past series and Christmas specials on BBC iPlayer before the new special airs.

Strictly Come Dancing Final (BBC One)

The glittering climax of the dance competition, watched by millions.

Watch previous finals and specials on BBC iPlayer.

Death in Paradise Christmas Special (BBC One)

A festive mystery in the sun — always a crowd-pleaser.

Catch-up on previous seasons on BBC iPlayer

The Masked Singer Christmas Special (ITV1)

Celebrities in disguise belt out holiday hits in this musical guessing game.

Gladiators Christmas Special (BBC One)

A festive showdown of powerhouse challenges as the nation’s favourite contenders battle for glory in the arena.

Dear Father Christmas (Channel 4)

Channel 4’s headline drama with a star-studded cast and a unique festive plot.

Looking ahead

As the last of the mince pies disappear and we count down to 2026, there’s even more great TV to look forward to.

From the very first festive jingle to the final credits at night, Christmas TV is a shared tradition that connects us across generations.

Make sure you’re ready to enjoy every moment, this Christmas and beyond.