As Easter Sunday approaches on April 4, 2026, shoppers in the UK are preparing for the holiday weekend. Traditionally, most supermarkets in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland remain closed on Easter Sunday, a practice that continues this year.
However, some exceptions exist. Notably, certain Little Waitrose stores will be open, providing limited options for those needing last-minute groceries. In contrast, supermarkets in Scotland will operate as usual on Easter Sunday, allowing shoppers there to access their local stores without restrictions.
Leading up to Easter Sunday, the trading hours for Good Friday and Easter Monday are crucial for consumers. On Good Friday, many supermarkets will be open from 6am to 10pm or 8am to 8pm, depending on the retailer. Convenience stores typically maintain their normal hours, opening at 7am and closing around 10pm or 11pm.
For Easter Saturday, shoppers can expect a mix of hours. Tesco stores in Wales will open at 6am and close at midnight, while Asda may have varying hours, with some locations operating 24 hours. Lidl and Aldi are expected to follow their usual hours, opening from 8am to 10pm.
Easter Monday will also see varied hours, with many supermarkets opening at 8am and closing by 8pm or 6pm. Aldi, for instance, will be open from 8am to 10pm on this day.
It is essential for customers to check individual store hours, especially for retailers like M&S, which advises shoppers to verify timings for Easter Sunday. This information is vital for those planning their holiday meals or last-minute shopping.
The bank holiday weekend often brings reduced or revised hours for supermarkets, impacting how families prepare for the festivities. Understanding these hours helps consumers avoid disappointment and ensures they can access necessary items.
As the holiday draws closer, shoppers are urged to plan accordingly, especially given the restrictions on Easter Sunday. Knowing when stores are open can make a significant difference in holiday preparations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to store hours, so staying informed is crucial.