When to buy a real Christmas tree

Updated October 2026

Most UK Christmas tree farms open from mid to late November and keep selling trees until shortly before Christmas. The first weekend in December is usually the busiest time to go.

How early is too early?

A freshly cut tree that’s kept in water indoors will normally look good for about four to five weeks. If you put your tree up on the first weekend of December, it should still look fresh on Christmas Day. If you buy at the very start of the season in late November, keep it outside in a bucket of water somewhere cool and bring it in nearer the time.

Why go early

• Choice. The best-shaped trees in popular sizes go first, especially taller trees.
• Quieter visits. Weekday visits are calmer than December weekends.
• Booked events. If a farm runs Santa visits or timed entry, early weekend slots often sell out.

Why go later

• Freshness. A tree cut in mid-December has less time to dry out before Christmas.
• Busy households. If you’re short of space or away for part of December, a later tree is simpler.

Our suggestion

For most families, the first or second weekend of December is a good balance between choice and freshness. Whatever you choose, give the trunk a fresh cut and stand it in water as soon as you get home. Our guide to keeping a real tree fresh explains how.

Farm opening dates vary, and many farms only publish them in October or November. Each farm page shows the dates the farm has published. If there’s nothing there yet, check with the farm before visiting.