Planning a last-minute barbecue, stocking up for a long weekend or simply hoping to avoid a wasted journey? Supermarkets across the UK are changing their opening hours for the August Bank Holiday on Monday, August 31.
Although many major chains will remain open, some branches will trade for shorter hours than usual. Opening times can also vary depending on the store’s size, location and whether it is a convenience branch, so shoppers should check their local supermarket before setting off.
Opening hours for the August Bank Holiday
Aldi
Aldi stores in England and Wales are expected to open from 8am until 8pm on Bank Holiday Monday.
Branches in Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to keep their usual opening hours. Customers can confirm the details using the Aldi store finder.
Asda
Most Asda supermarkets in England and Wales will operate reduced hours, typically opening from 8am until 10pm.
Asda Express stores are expected to remain open for 24 hours or until their usual closing time, depending on the branch. Shoppers should use the Asda store locator to check their nearest shop.
Co-op
Most Co-op convenience stores will operate their standard hours, generally from 7am until 10pm.
However, Co-op opening times can vary considerably between branches, particularly in busy town centres, petrol stations and smaller communities. Customers are advised to check the Co-op store finder before travelling.
Iceland
Iceland stores will usually open either from 8am to 7pm or 9am to 6pm on Bank Holiday Monday.
Exact times depend on the individual branch, so shoppers should check the Iceland store finder for the latest information.
Lidl
Most Lidl stores in England and Wales are expected to open from 8am until 10pm.
Branches in London and Scotland are expected to operate as normal. As with all the major chains, customers should check the Lidl store finder for their local opening hours.
M&S
Most M&S stores will operate reduced hours during the August Bank Holiday.
Many branches are expected to close earlier than usual, typically between 6pm and 8pm. Foodhall opening times may differ from those of larger M&S shops, so shoppers should check the M&S store locator before visiting.
Morrisons
Larger Morrisons supermarkets in England and Wales are expected to open from 7am until 8pm.
There is generally no change to the usual hours for Morrisons Daily convenience stores, although individual branches may follow different schedules. Customers can check the Morrisons store finder for details.
Sainsbury’s
Most larger Sainsbury’s supermarkets are expected to open from 7am until 10pm on Bank Holiday Monday.
Sainsbury’s Local branches will generally operate their normal opening hours. However, local variations are possible, particularly in city centres and transport hubs.
Tesco
Tesco’s Bank Holiday hours will vary by branch and region.
Most larger Tesco stores and large Express stores in England and Wales are expected to open from 8am until 6pm. Large Express stores in Scotland are expected to operate from 7am until 10pm, while Tesco branches in the Isle of Man are expected to open between 7am and 10pm.
Most large Tesco stores and large Express stores in Northern Ireland are expected to open as normal. Smaller Tesco Express branches will generally maintain their usual hours.
Waitrose
Most Waitrose stores are expected to operate reduced hours, typically opening from 8am until 6pm.
Little Waitrose convenience branches will generally open as normal, although customers should still check their individual store before making a special trip.
To avoid arriving after the doors have closed:
Check the supermarket’s online store locator before travelling.
Remember that petrol stations and convenience shops may have different hours from larger supermarkets.
Shop earlier if you need a wide range of products, as reduced hours may mean busier stores.
Check delivery slots in advance, as Bank Holiday availability can be limited.
Look out for regional differences, particularly in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The August Bank Holiday is one of the busiest shopping weekends of the summer, so checking your local branch could save you an unnecessary journey. The times above are typical or expected hours, but individual stores may vary.
