The festive season is officially upon us, and the shelves of UK supermarkets and high street chains are once again groaning under the weight of their annual Christmas sandwich offerings. For 2025, the selection is bigger than ever, making that crucial lunchtime choice a daunting task. But fear not, as we've undertaken the arduous but delicious duty of tasting a wide array to bring you the definitive guide to this year's festive sarnies.
Our mission was simple: pick two sandwiches from each major retailer—one classic Christmas option and one new, exciting creation for 2025. Each was then rigorously assessed and given a rating out of five. The results include some stunning five-star winners and one shockingly poor offering that scored a measly 1/5.
The Standout Stars & Festive Flops
Several retailers truly delivered on flavour this year. Tesco's Finest Turkey BLT (£4.25) was an absolute triumph, earning a perfect 5/5. This 'transatlantic take' on a classic, featuring pastrami-style turkey, maple-cured bacon, and gherkin mayo on rye bread, was declared 'one of the best supermarket sandwiches I’ve ever had.'
Not to be outdone, Pret's Veggie Christmas Flatbread surprised our meat-loving reviewer, also securing a top score of 5/5. The combination of roasted butternut squash, chestnut & herb stuffing, and sage mayo was a flavour sensation, giving 'delicious nut roast' vibes.
Aldi also impressed with two high-scoring options. Their Specially Selected Honey Roast Gammon Ham & Christmas Slaw Bloomer (£2.75) earned a 4.5/5 for its generous filling and well-balanced spiced slaw, while the Vegan Festive Feast Wrap (£2.49) achieved a perfect 5/5, being hailed as a 'delicate but delicious pick-me-up' that could become a new lunch staple.
However, not every sandwich was a winner. The dubious honour of the lowest score went to Greggs' Festive Flatbread (£3.65), which received a dismal 1/5. Criticised for being burnt, tough, and 'a bit sloppy,' it was a disappointing offering from the high street baker.
Solid Performers & Mid-Range Options
Many sandwiches landed in the solid, if not spectacular, middle ground. M&S's perennial favourite, the Turkey Feast (£4), scored a reliable 4/5 for its stunning layering and even distribution of quality ingredients, though it was noted it could use a touch more cranberry sauce.
Starbucks' Festive Turkey Sandwich, with its unique cranberry bread and turkey gravy, was a pleasant surprise and scored a 4/5. Conversely, their Festive Feast Toastie was a letdown, scoring only 2/5 due to a disastrous mix of soggy and overcooked textures.
Waitrose offered a mixed bag. Their Turkey, Stuffing & Bacon sandwich (£4.50) was praised as an 'elevated version of the classic' and scored 4/5. Their Merry Club'mas Sandwich, however, felt like a 'basic chicken sandwich' with unnecessary extras and scored just 2/5.
The Final Verdict on Your 2025 Lunch
This year's Christmas sandwich lineup proves that innovation and quality are still thriving. For the ultimate festive experience, you can't go wrong with the top-tier options from Tesco, Pret, and Aldi. Those seeking a classic, reliable turkey feast should look to M&S or Waitrose.
Ultimately, whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, there's a festive sandwich with your name on it this December. Just maybe steer clear of the Greggs flatbread unless you fancy a festive disappointment.
