As the festive season approaches, it’s important for both business owners and the public to be aware of the specific rules governing alcohol sales in Northern Ireland. The permitted hours for licensed premises differ from the rest of the year, and understanding these laws is crucial. At McPartland & Sons Solicitors, we provide expert advice on all aspects of licensing law to ensure you stay compliant.
The New Licensing Laws
The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has brought significant changes to the licensing system. These reforms have provided greater flexibility for the hospitality sector, including extended opening hours and relaxed restrictions on certain days. As of 2025, a court must be satisfied that those applying for an alcohol licence or club registration are aware of their responsibilities and are complying with a new Code of Practice.
Christmas Licensing Hours 2025
The permitted hours for selling alcohol on licensed premises during the Christmas period are as follows:
- Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December 2025:
- Licensed premises can sell alcohol from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm.
- Those with a ‘late licence’ may sell alcohol until midnight.
- Off-licences may sell alcohol from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.
- Christmas Day, Thursday 25 December 2025:
- Licensed premises may only sell alcohol from 12:30 pm to 10:00 pm, even if they hold a late licence.
- Off-licences are not allowed to sell alcohol at all on Christmas Day.
- Boxing Day, Friday 26 December 2025:
- Licensed premises may sell alcohol from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, and those with a late licence may sell alcohol until 1:00 am, or with additional permitted hours until 2:00 am.
- Off-licences may sell alcohol from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.
- New Year’s Eve, Wednesday 31 December 2025:
- Licensed premises may sell alcohol from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, and those with a late licence may sell alcohol until 1:00 am, or with additional permitted hours until 2:00 am.
- Off-licences may sell alcohol from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Important Exceptions
- Hotels and Guesthouses: If a business provides accommodation, such as a hotel or guesthouse, the standard licensing hours do not apply when selling alcohol to overnight guests. They may sell alcohol to a resident at any time.
- Drinking-Up Time: Under the new legislation, the “drinking-up time” has been extended from 30 minutes to one hour, allowing for a more gradual departure of patrons from the premises after closing time.
Young People and Alcohol
The welfare of young people is a primary concern in alcohol licensing.
- Children under 18 are not permitted in bars unless the premises holds a children’s certificate, which allows young people to stay until 9:00 pm or 9:30 pm if they are finishing a meal.
- Exceptions exist for children in an off-licence with an adult, at refreshment rooms in transport terminals, sporting clubs until 10:00 pm, and in arenas or stadiums.
Legal Advice and Drink Driving
The festive period can be busy, but it’s essential to be mindful of the law. McPartland & Sons Solicitors reminds everyone that drink driving laws are strictly enforced in Northern Ireland. The safest advice is to avoid alcohol completely if you are driving.
For any questions about licensing laws or to ensure your premises is fully compliant, contact the expert team at McPartland & Sons Solicitors. We provide comprehensive legal services to businesses in Lisburn and Lurgan, helping you navigate the complexities of Northern Ireland’s legal system.
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