McDonald's has made a controversial decision that has left many British families disappointed, removing a beloved item from its children's menu.
End of an Era for a Fan Favourite
From today, Wednesday, 26th November 2025, McDonald's has officially axed its Fish Fingers Happy Meal, a long-standing staple that cost £3.89. Despite being a confirmed 'fan favourite' among its younger customers, the fast-food chain has decided to discontinue the option.
The move has sparked an immediate backlash from parents. One frustrated parent told Birmingham Live, "That’s pants. My kid loves the fish fingers." Another echoed this sentiment, stating, "Ah gutted, my [little one] won’t eat anything in burger shape! Fish fingers are her favourite!" The disappointment was severe enough for one family to declare they would be boycotting the restaurant, with a parent saying, "That’s it, we are never going to McDonald’s ever again."
What's Replacing the Fish Fingers?
In place of the traditional fish fingers, McDonald's is introducing two new options to its Happy Meal selection.
The first is a new-to-the-UK McFish Happy Meal. This offering is similar to the adult Filet-o-Fish sandwich but is served without the tartar sauce, making it more suitable for children's palates.
The second new addition is the Mayo Chicken Happy Meal. This features crispy coated chicken with lettuce and cool mayo, all served in a soft bun, providing another alternative for young diners.
However, these changes have not placated all customers. One parent explained the specific challenge this creates: "My daughter only likes nuggets and fish finger Happy Meal … what a silly idea."
A Festive Menu for Adults
This shake-up of the kids' menu coincides with the national rollout of McDonald's Christmas menu for 2025.
The headline festive item is the Grinch Meal, priced at £9.09. Customers can choose this meal with either a Big Mac, nine Chicken McNuggets, or a McPlant option. Each selection is served with the innovative Grinch McShaker Fries, which have a gherkin-flavoured seasoning for pickle lovers, and a drink of your choice.
Another new festive offering is the Cheesy Chicken Stack meal for £8.99. A McDonald's spokesperson described it as "A 100% chicken breast fillet in a crispy, crunchy coating, layered with mega cheese melt, a cheese slice, lettuce, and a warming Chipotle Salsa."
Furthermore, the Big Tasty is returning for £7.99 (or the double version for £9.49). For the first time, both of these burgers can be upgraded with a bacon add-on, giving diners more ways to customise their ideal festive meal.
The company is promoting the new lineup with festive cheer. A McDonald's representative said: "McDonald's is spreading festive cheer with a delicious mix of exciting new treats and returning fan favourites! This year's line-up is packed with merry burgers, delightful desserts, tasty sides, and hot or cold drinks to make the season even jollier."
