As the Easter bank holiday weekend rolls around, families across the UK are preparing for a well-deserved break, often filled with chocolate eggs, family feasts, and—let’s be honest—a last-minute dash to the supermarket. But before you grab your shopping bags, it’s crucial to know which stores will be open and when, as the country’s largest supermarkets have announced a patchwork of opening hours to accommodate both legal restrictions and local needs.
This year, Easter falls on Sunday, April 5, 2026, with Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6. For many, these dates mean extra time off work and a chance to relax. But they also bring a unique challenge: navigating the maze of supermarket schedules, which vary not only by chain but also by region and store size. According to The Independent and Express, many stores in Scotland will remain open even as their English and Welsh counterparts shut their doors, owing to different trading laws.
Let’s start with Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain. On Good Friday, April 3, most large Tesco stores in England, Wales, and the Isle of Man will be open from 6am to 10pm. Standard Express stores will operate as usual, while Scottish and Northern Irish stores will follow their normal hours. On Easter Sunday, April 5, the majority of large Tesco stores—especially those over 280 square meters—will be closed in England and Wales, as required by law. However, stores in Scotland will remain open as normal, and those on the Isle of Man will operate from 8am to 10pm. Come Easter Monday, April 6, most large stores in England, Wales, and the Isle of Man will open from 8am to 6pm, while Scottish stores will stick to their regular schedule.
Sainsbury’s, another supermarket giant, will also be adjusting its hours. On Good Friday and Easter Saturday (April 3 and 4), Sainsbury’s supermarkets will open from 7am to 11pm, with convenience stores operating on their usual timetable. All Sainsbury’s supermarkets in England will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 5, but convenience stores will open as usual from 7am to 11pm. In Scotland, Sainsbury’s supermarkets will remain open on Easter Sunday, reflecting the different trading regulations north of the border. On Easter Monday, most Sainsbury’s supermarkets will be open between 8am and 8pm, while convenience stores will again keep their standard hours.
Aldi, known for its no-frills approach and budget-friendly prices, is also making changes. On Good Friday, Aldi stores will trade from 8am to 9pm, and on Saturday, April 4, from 8am to 10pm. All Aldi stores in England and Wales will close on Easter Sunday, but some in Scotland will remain open. On Easter Monday, the majority of Aldi stores will open between 8am and 8pm, although customers are advised to check local listings as times can vary, especially for smaller stores.
Lidl, another favorite for bargain hunters, will keep its doors open as usual on Good Friday in England and Wales, while Scottish stores will operate with reduced hours (9am to 10pm). On Easter Sunday, all Lidl stores in England and Wales will be closed, but Scottish locations will remain open. Easter Monday brings a mix: opening times will vary across the country, so shoppers are encouraged to check online or via the Lidl app for the most accurate information.
Morrisons is following a similar pattern. On Good Friday and Easter Saturday, most stores will open from 7am to 10pm, though hours may differ by location. All Morrisons supermarkets in England and Wales will be closed on Easter Sunday, but Scottish stores will stay open as usual. On Easter Monday, stores in England and Wales will operate from 7am to 8pm, while those in Scotland will maintain their regular hours. For those relying on Morrisons Daily convenience outlets, most will stay open throughout the long weekend, including Easter Sunday.
Asda’s approach is straightforward: larger stores will be open from 7am to 10pm on Good Friday and Saturday, and from 8am to 10pm on Easter Monday. However, on Easter Sunday, stores over 280 square meters will be closed in England and Wales, in line with legal restrictions. Smaller Asda stores may offer reduced hours, so it’s worth checking the store locator for specifics.
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has also confirmed that most of its stores will close on Easter Sunday, but the majority will open from 8am to 8pm on both Good Friday and Easter Monday. Convenience stores and Scottish locations may operate different hours, so again, checking ahead is recommended.
Waitrose shoppers should expect reduced hours on Good Friday and Easter Monday, typically from 8am to 8pm, though this can vary by branch. Most Waitrose stores will be closed on Easter Sunday, except for a select few Little Waitrose convenience outlets. Saturday trading remains unchanged for most stores.
The Co-op, which often serves as a lifeline for last-minute shoppers, will open from 7am to 10pm on Good Friday and Easter Saturday, close its larger stores on Easter Sunday (though convenience stores may open), and resume 7am to 10pm hours on Easter Monday.
Why all these closures and reduced hours? The answer lies in UK trading laws, which require large retailers—those with floor space over 280 square meters—to close on Easter Sunday in England and Wales. The rules are similar to those in place for Christmas Day, aiming to give retail workers a guaranteed day off and to preserve the holiday spirit. However, smaller shops and convenience stores are exempt and can choose their hours, offering some flexibility for those inevitable last-minute needs.
For shoppers in Scotland, the landscape looks a bit different. Most major supermarkets will remain open throughout the Easter weekend, reflecting the absence of the same trading restrictions found elsewhere in the UK. This means that if you’re north of the border, you’re less likely to face a closed sign when you need that forgotten ingredient or extra box of chocolates.
Supermarket chains and consumer groups alike are urging shoppers to check local opening times online before heading out, as hours can vary significantly by location and store format. As Express notes, "shoppers have been urged to check online for specific store opening times over the weekend, as they will vary depending on location." It’s a simple step that could save a wasted trip and a lot of frustration.
For families, the Easter bank holiday is a time to come together, relax, and indulge. But with so many stores adjusting their schedules, a little planning can go a long way. Whether you’re stocking up for a big meal or just grabbing a forgotten treat, knowing your supermarket’s hours could make all the difference between a smooth holiday and a scramble at the last minute.
With the shelves stocked and the schedules set, the only thing left is to enjoy the long weekend—and maybe a chocolate egg or two.