McDonald’s breakfast typically starts at 5:00 am at 24-hour locations across the UK. For non-24-hour branches, breakfast begins as soon as the doors open, usually at 6:00 am or 7:00 am. All McDonald’s UK restaurants stop serving breakfast at exactly 11:00 am daily.
For many people across the UK, timing matters.
Whether it is a commuter heading into London, a parent on the school run, or someone finishing a night shift, knowing what time does McDonald’s breakfast start helps avoid disappointment.
Here is everything UK customers need to know for 2026.
What Time Does McDonald’s Breakfast Start in the UK?
In most cases, breakfast starts early but the exact time depends on the type of branch.
Standard Start Times
- 24-hour restaurants: 5:00 am
- High street locations: When the branch opens (usually 6:00–7:00 am)
- Shopping centre branches: Typically 7:00–8:00 am
- Motorway services: Often 5:00 am
Most confusion comes from assuming all branches operate the same way. They do not. Some locations are franchise-operated and may adjust slightly based on local demand.
Quick Comparison Table (2026 UK Breakfast Hours)
| Location Type | Breakfast Start Time | Breakfast End Time |
| 24-Hour Restaurants | 5:00 am | 11:00 am |
| High Street / In-Store | Opening (6am – 8am) | 11:00 am |
| McDelivery (Uber/JustEat) | 5:00 am / 7:00 am | 10:45 am |
Important: Delivery platforms often stop breakfast orders at 10:45 am to allow kitchen changeover time.
What Time Does McDonald’s Stop Serving Breakfast in 2026?
Across the UK, breakfast ends at 11:00 am sharp.
This applies:
- Monday to Sunday
- Weekends
- Most bank holidays
There is no extended weekend schedule.
If someone orders at 10:59 am, breakfast will still be served. At 11:01 am, the system switches to the main menu.
Why the 11:00 am Cut-Off?
The changeover allows:
- Kitchen equipment reset
- Lunch menu preparation
- Faster service during peak hours
This is a confirmed national policy in 2026.
Can You Get McDonald’s Breakfast All Day?
No. Breakfast is not available after 11:00 am in the UK. Some customers still believe 24-hour branches offer all-day breakfast. This is incorrect.
Confirmed Fact
Breakfast service ends at 11:00 am nationwide.
Common Misunderstanding
24-hour restaurants serve breakfast all day.
They do not.
Proposed Changes?
As of February 2026, there are no confirmed plans to reintroduce all-day breakfast in the UK.
McDonald’s Breakfast Menu & Prices UK
The breakfast menu remains consistent in 2026, with popular favourites available nationwide until 11:00 am. While exact prices can vary slightly by location especially in central London, airports, and motorway services the table below shows typical UK price ranges.
Typical McDonald’s Breakfast Prices (UK 2026)
| Menu Item | Individual Price (Approx.) | Meal Price (Approx.) |
| Egg McMuffin | £2.79 – £3.19 | £4.79 – £5.39 |
| Sausage & Egg McMuffin | £3.29 – £3.69 | £5.19 – £5.79 |
| Bacon Roll | £2.49 – £2.99 | £4.29 – £4.89 |
| Breakfast Wrap | £3.89 – £4.29 | £5.89 – £6.49 |
| Hash Browns | £1.69 – £1.99 | Included in meal |
| Porridge | £1.99 – £2.49 | N/A |
| Pancakes & Syrup | £2.49 – £2.99 | £4.49 – £4.99 |
Note:
- “Meal” typically includes a hot drink and hash brown.
- Prices may be slightly higher in central London locations such as Leicester Square.
- Delivery platforms may add service fees.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, customers should check the official McDonald’s UK app or their local branch.
Popular Items
- Egg McMuffin
- Sausage & Egg McMuffin
- Hash Browns
- Porridge
- Breakfast Roll (selected branches)
Prices typically range from £1.99 to around £4.79 depending on location. London branches may be slightly higher due to operating costs. Vegetarian and lighter options remain available.
How to Find Your Local McDonald’s Opening Hours?
Opening times can vary slightly by branch. The safest method is to check directly:
Official McDonald’s UK Restaurant Locator:
https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb/restaurant-locator.html
You can also:
- Use the McDonald’s UK app
- Check Google Maps
- Call the branch directly
- Review delivery apps for current availability
London Local Insight: Early Morning Hotspots
For London readers, location can make a difference. Some of the busiest early-morning branches include:
- McDonald’s Leicester Square
- McDonald’s Liverpool Street Station
- McDonald’s Oxford Street
These locations often begin breakfast at 5:00 am due to commuter demand.
For example:
A City worker finishing a night shift near Liverpool Street at 5:15 am can usually access the full breakfast menu without issue.
Do Bank Holidays or Christmas Change Breakfast Times?
Generally, no. Most bank holidays follow normal Sunday hours.
However:
- Christmas Day: Many branches close
- Boxing Day: Reduced hours at some locations
Always verify directly during festive periods.
Conclusion
For those asking what time does McDonald’s breakfast start, the answer in 2026 is simple and consistent across the UK. Most 24-hour restaurants begin breakfast at 5:00 am, while other branches start serving when they open, usually between 6:00 am and 7:00 am.
Breakfast ends nationwide at exactly 11:00 am, with no all-day option available. After 11:00 am, the menu switches to lunch favourites, including burgers, fries and the popular McDonald’s Happy Meal. Checking your local branch in advance ensures you never miss your morning order.
FAQs
Does McDonald’s serve breakfast later in London?
No. The 11:00 am cut-off applies across London and the UK.
Are Scottish McDonald’s breakfast times different?
No. Scotland follows the same 11:00 am rule.
Why does delivery stop at 10:45 am?
This allows the kitchen to transition to the lunch menu smoothly.
Can breakfast items sell out early?
Rarely, but busy city branches may temporarily run low during peak hours.
Are drive-thru times different from dine-in?
No. Service begins simultaneously.
Is porridge available all year?
Yes, it is a permanent breakfast option.
Do prices vary across the UK?
Yes. London and airport locations may charge slightly more.
