As Easter 2025 approaches, UK shoppers are gearing up for the long weekend, which begins on Good Friday, April 18, and ends on Easter Monday, April 21. While the four-day break promises a much-needed rest, it will also bring disruption to supermarket opening times, with many major chains adjusting their hours to comply with bank holidays and national laws.
For those planning to top up their supplies during the Easter period, it is crucial to know which stores will be open and when. However, as usual, supermarkets across the UK will operate on reduced hours on Easter Sunday, April 20, with some branches in Scotland remaining open due to different trading regulations.
Here is an overview of what you can expect from the biggest UK supermarket chains.
Easter 2025: Major Supermarkets Operating Hours Over Easter Weekend
Tesco, one of the largest UK supermarket chains, will operate with varying hours depending on the store format. Tesco Extra outlets will be closed on Easter Sunday, in line with UK regulations.
However, they will open on Good Friday (April 18) and Easter Monday (April 21) with restricted hours, typically running from 8 am to 6 pm. In contrast, Tesco Express stores will remain open across the weekend, including Easter Sunday, with extended operating hours of 6 am to 11 pm.
According to Tesco’s website, the store locator will help customers find precise details for their local branches. Asda will follow a similar pattern, with most stores open from 7 am to 10 pm on both Good Friday and Easter Monday.
However, like many others, Asda stores will close on Easter Sunday, in compliance with UK trading laws, except in Scotland where stores are likely to operate under standard Sunday trading hours. Asda has advised customers to check local store timings using their online locator tool.
Aldi, a popular discount supermarket, will also shut its doors on Easter Sunday in England and Wales. Its stores will operate on usual hours on Good Friday and Easter Saturday, typically opening from 8 am to 10 pm, and will re-open with limited hours on Easter Monday from 8 am to 8 pm. However, Aldi in Scotland will operate on Easter Sunday, as per local trading rules.
Impact of Easter Sunday Trading Laws
The UK has specific laws that restrict large supermarkets from trading on Easter Sunday. These rules aim to allow employees time off during a key holiday period. As a result, supermarkets like Morrisons and Sainsbury’s will close their larger stores on Easter Sunday.
However, smaller formats like Sainsbury’s Local and Co-op will remain open, with the latter offering varying opening hours based on store size.
Waitrose, known for its premium offering, will also close most of its branches on Easter Sunday, although smaller stores may still operate.
For many shoppers, these temporary closures can cause inconvenience, but knowing the opening times in advance can help avoid frustration. Shoppers are encouraged to check with local stores using online tools to ensure they don’t miss out on necessary goods.
