This festive season, the traditional British Christmas plate is undergoing a quiet revolution, with millions opting for surprising alternatives to the classic roast. However, one staple is defiantly holding its ground in the capital: the beloved Yorkshire pudding.
The Rise of the 'Christmas Dinner Sinner'
According to a major new survey by Audley Villages, a significant number of Brits are boldly rewriting the rulebook for the 25th of December. The research indicates that a staggering 5.3 million people plan to serve chips alongside their turkey this year, while 2.9 million will incorporate baked beans into their festive feast.
Even more surprisingly, a greener trend is emerging, with approximately six million individuals opting to include a salad on their Christmas plate. The condiment selection is also seeing a shake-up, with BBQ sauce (7%) and curry sauce (6%) making unexpected appearances. Further breaking from tradition, one in ten (10%) will serve chicken nuggets, and one in twenty (5%) are set to dish up fish fingers.
London's Loyalty to a Classic
Amidst this culinary rebellion, some traditions are proving resilient. The survey, published on 17th December 2025, reveals that in Greater London, 42% of people still enjoy a Yorkshire pudding with their Christmas lunch. This demonstrates a strong, albeit not leading, attachment to the classic accompaniment in the capital.
The crown for the most Yorkshire-pudding-loving region, however, goes to the North East of England, where a commanding 66% of residents insist on having one on their festive plate.
The Undisputed Festive Heroes
While new trends emerge, the nation's core festive favourites remain largely unchanged and deeply cherished. The research confirms that roast potatoes are the undisputed 'festive hero', with a mere 1% naming them the worst part of the meal.
Other essential components with near-universal approval include carrots (99%), gravy (99%), and stuffing (97%). Interestingly, almost a third (30%) of Brits adore every element of the Christmas feast and cannot choose a 'worst' part. For those who can, the Brussels sprout remains divisive, disliked by 15% (one in seven) of those surveyed.
The findings paint a picture of a modern British Christmas where personal taste is triumphing over rigid tradition, sparking conversations at dining tables across the country. Yet, the enduring popularity of certain classics, like the Yorkshire pudding in London and the roast potato nationwide, shows that the heart of the festive meal still beats strong.
