As Easter Monday approaches, many across the UK are finalising their holiday plans, whether it's preparing a festive feast or stocking up on chocolate treats for an egg hunt. With the bank holiday often bringing revised operating hours, it's crucial to verify supermarket schedules to avoid disappointment. This guide compiles the latest Easter opening times for major UK supermarkets from Good Friday through Easter Monday, helping you shop with confidence.
Why Check Supermarket Hours This Easter?
Easter weekend typically sees supermarkets adjust their hours, with some stores closing entirely on Easter Sunday in certain regions. Reduced hours on Easter Monday are common, and variations can occur based on location, especially for smaller convenience outlets. Always confirm with your local branch before heading out to ensure a smooth shopping experience.
Major Supermarket Opening Times for Easter 2026
Here’s a detailed breakdown of opening hours for key supermarkets during the Easter period. Note that times are based on current announcements and may vary by store.
- Sainsbury’s: Good Friday and Easter Saturday: 7am-11pm for convenience stores. Easter Sunday: Closed in England and Wales, open as normal in Scotland. Easter Monday: 8am-8pm for convenience stores.
- Waitrose: Good Friday and Easter Monday: Open with reduced hours, typically 8am-8pm. Easter Saturday: No changes announced. Easter Sunday: Closed, with select Little Waitrose stores open.
- Tesco: Good Friday: 6am-10pm in England, Wales, and Isle of Man; normal hours in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Easter Sunday: Closed in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland; 8am-10pm in Isle of Man; normal hours in Scotland. Easter Monday: 8am-6pm in England, Wales, and Isle of Man; 8am-8pm in Northern Ireland; normal hours in Scotland.
- Aldi: Good Friday: 8am-9pm. Easter Saturday: 8am-9pm. Easter Sunday: Closed. Easter Monday: 8am-8pm.
- Asda: Good Friday and Easter Saturday: 7am-10pm. Easter Sunday: Closed. Easter Monday: 8am-10pm.
- Co-Op: Convenience stores open as usual throughout the Easter weekend.
- M&S: Good Friday and Easter Monday: 8am-8pm. Easter Saturday: No changes announced. Easter Sunday: Closed.
- Morrisons: Good Friday: Most stores open 7am-10pm. Easter Sunday: Closed in England and Wales, normal hours in Scotland. Easter Monday: 7am-8pm in England and Wales, normal hours in Scotland.
- Iceland: Normal trading hours except for shopping centre stores on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Easter Sunday: Closed except in Scotland.
- Lidl: Good Friday: Normal hours in England and Wales, 9am-10pm in Scotland. Easter Saturday: Normal hours. Easter Sunday: Closed except in Scotland. Easter Monday: Hours vary; check online store finder.
Tips for Easter Shopping Success
To make the most of your Easter shopping, consider these pointers. First, plan ahead by checking specific store hours via official websites or apps, as local variations are common. Second, shop early to avoid crowds and ensure availability of popular items like hot cross buns and Easter eggs. Lastly, keep an eye out for seasonal deals and promotions, which many supermarkets offer during this period.
Remember, while this guide provides a general overview, individual store times may differ. Always verify with your nearest supermarket to confirm their exact opening schedule for a hassle-free holiday experience.
