The Best Christmas Movies to Watch Before Bed

As the nights grow longer and fairy lights twinkle in every window, there’s nothing quite like climbing into bed with a comforting Christmas film and a steaming mug of hot chocolate. But with so many festive favourites to choose from, finding one that suits the whole family can be tricky. Whether you’re sharing a magical moment with the kids before lights out or curling up solo with a timeless classic, we’ve rounded up the best Christmas movies to help you unwind.

Arguably one of the best Christmas movies of all time, Will Ferrell’s Buddy the Elf brings pure joy to every scene in this feel-good favourite. While it’s upbeat and energetic, there’s something about Buddy’s wide-eyed wonder and genuine goodness that leaves you feeling warm and content. Great for when you want to end your day with a smile, this modern classic never fails to lift spirits before bedtime.

Best for: Teens and adults who need a dose of Christmas cheer.
Where to watch: NOW TV, Sky Go.

Tim Allen’s transformation from reluctant Christmas stand-in to the real Santa makes for festive, cosy viewing. This heartwarming tale balances gentle humour with genuine emotion, creating the ideal atmosphere for winding down. It’s become one of the best family Christmas films for both children and adults, reminding us all about the magic of believing. And if you’re not quite ready to leave the North Pole behind, the sequels are a fantastic way to keep your Christmas movie night going.

Best for: Family movie nights before bed.
Where to watch: Disney+.

This charming modern remake brings the beloved story to life in colour while keeping all the warmth of the original. Richard Attenborough’s portrayal of Kris Kringle is gentle and reassuring, making this one of the best Christmas films ever for families to settle down and watch together. The courtroom scenes add just enough tension to keep you gripped all the way to the joyful ending. There’s something deeply comforting about watching cynicism melt away into belief, making it an excellent viewing for little ones starting to question Santa.

Best for: Families with children aged 6 and above, and anyone seeking feel-good festive viewing.
Where to watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV.

Home Alone is a Christmas classic that never loses its charm. Watching young Kevin McCallister defend his family home with clever tricks and boundless courage is both thrilling and oddly comforting. While it’s more action-packed than your typical bedtime film, there’s something satisfying about seeing everything fall into place. This festive favourite reminds us of the warmth of coming home, leaving you to drift off with a smile.

Best for: Children aged 7 and above, as well as nostalgic adults.
Where to watch: Disney+.

This much-loved ensemble romance has become a modern Christmas tradition for many. Best enjoyed once the little ones are tucked up in bed, it’s the perfect pick for adults seeking something a little more heartfelt before sleep. With its beautifully interwoven stories of love, loss and connection, Love Actually captures the full spectrum of festive emotion – from laughter to tears, and everything in between. By the time the credits roll, you’re left with that unmistakable feeling of warmth and hope that helps you drift off peacefully.

Best for: Adults and older teens.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

Michael Caine, alongside the beloved Muppets, creates magic in this faithful yet entertaining adaptation of Dickens’s classic. It’s suitable for younger viewers whilst staying true to the story’s emotional depth, earning its place among the best Christmas films for toddlers and older children. The songs are catchy without being overstimulating, and the tale of kindness and redemption leaves you with that cosy, content feeling.

Best for: All ages, particularly families with younger children.
Where to watch: Disney+.

This underrated gem deserves far more recognition as one of the best family Christmas films. Arthur’s determination to deliver one missed present is touching and wholesome, and the modern take on Santa’s operation is cleverly done. The animation sparks emotion without being overwhelming, making it ideal for evening viewing when you want something entertaining but not too stimulating before sleep.

Best for: Families with children of all ages.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

For something truly calming, this wordless animated classic is the perfect choice before bed. Its soft, hand-drawn animation creates a dreamlike atmosphere that feels like a lullaby in motion. At just 26 minutes long, it’s ideal for toddlers and younger children who need something gentle and short before drifting off. A masterpiece of storytelling without words, it’s one of the loveliest Christmas films to watch as the day winds peacefully to a close.

Best for: Very young children and anyone seeking a quick and peaceful viewing experience.
Where to watch: Channel 4.

This British gem brings a blend of warmth and humour to the festive film line-up. Set in a primary school preparing for its nativity play, it’s delightfully relatable for families – full of charming chaos, innocent excitement and heart. Embracing the messiness of real life and finishing with an uplifting, happy ending, Nativity! has become a firm favourite among UK families, perfectly capturing that uniquely British mix of laughter, mishaps, and magic that makes school Christmas productions so unforgettable.

Best for: UK families with primary school-aged children.
Where to watch: Netflix, BBC iPlayer.

Watching festive films before slumber can become a cherished December ritual. Feel-good festive movies create a moment to unwind, feel cosy, and drift into dreams filled with twinkling lights and gentle laughter. Here’s how to make it extra special:

• Dim the lights and switch on some soft fairy lights to create a warm, inviting glow.
• Add a few extra cushions and your favourite throw to make your bed feel like a snug little cinema.
• Keep the volume low enough to stay relaxed, but high enough to enjoy every line and note of festive music.
• Start your film early enough that you can finish about 30 minutes before bedtime. That way, you’ll have time to brush your teeth, wind down and slip peacefully under the covers.
• If you drift off before the credits roll, especially with one of the gentler films on our list, that’s all part of the magic.

The best Christmas movies leave you feeling warm, content, and ready to drift into peaceful sleep. Whether you’re settling the kids, unwinding with your partner, or streaming solo, there’s something magical about ending the day wrapped in Christmas cheer. The secret isn’t just the film you choose, but the cosy atmosphere around it – soft lighting, a snug bed, and the people you love. Sweet dreams, and may your nights be merry, bright, and full of festive comfort.