Supermarket Bank Holiday Opening Times: What to Expect at Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Lidl & Sainsbury’s
Do you know that over 35 million people visit UK supermarkets during a bank holiday weekend? That’s a lot of shopping bags! Bank holidays are the perfect time to relax, catch up on chores, or enjoy a family meal. But here’s the thing we often forget, one small detail: Supermarket Bank Holiday Opening Times.
We plan a barbecue, crave snacks, or need baby wipes last minute. We rush to the store, only to find it closed. That’s frustrating, right?
That’s why it helps to know the holiday hours in advance.
Let’s walk through each store’s bank holiday schedule. Let’s help you shop smart and save time.
General Bank Holiday Shopping Trends
Bank holidays in the UK are exciting but busy. Many people have the day off work. That means more shoppers in supermarkets. Stores get crowded before and during the holiday. Aisles are packed. Checkout lines get long.
Go early in the morning to avoid the rush. Or shop later in the evening. These times are usually less busy. Most supermarkets change their hours on bank holidays. Some open late. Others close early.
Each store can have different hours. It depends on the location and store type. Check online before you go to be sure. Use store locators on the supermarket’s website or app. They show the latest hours.
Planning ahead helps you shop with less stress.

Tesco Bank Holiday Opening Times
On the Early May Bank Holiday, Monday, May 5, 2025, Tesco’s larger stores in England and Northern Ireland are typically open from 8 am to 6 pm.
In Scotland, these stores may remain open until 8 pm. Tesco Express stores often operate with extended hours, sometimes opening earlier and closing later than the larger stores.
However, these hours can vary by location, so it’s prudent to check the Tesco Store Locator for the most accurate timings.
Asda Bank Holiday Opening Times
Asda usually stays open during bank holidays. Most stores open from 7 am to 11 pm. Some locations may have different hours. It depends on the area and store type. To be sure, check before you go. Use the Asda Store Finder on their website or app. It shows the exact opening hours for your local store. This helps you plan your visit better.
Aldi Bank Holiday Opening Times
Aldi adjusts its opening hours during bank holidays. On Monday, May 5, 2025, most Aldi stores in England and Wales are expected to open from 8 am to 8 pm.
In Scotland, stores may remain open until 10 pm. However, these hours can vary by location, so it’s advisable to check the Aldi Store Finder or the Aldi app for the most accurate information.
Lidl Bank Holiday Opening Times
Lidl typically operates with adjusted hours during bank holidays. On Monday, May 5, 2025, most Lidl stores across the UK are expected to be open from 8 am to 10 pm.
However, opening times can vary depending on the location. It’s best to use the Lidl Store Finder or check the Lidl Plus app to confirm the exact hours of your local Lidl store.
Sainsbury’s Bank Holiday Opening Times
Sainsbury’s adjusts its opening hours during bank holidays. On Monday, May 5, 2025, most larger Sainsbury’s stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are expected to open from 8 am to 8 pm. Sainsbury’s Local stores and branches in Scotland may operate until 11 pm.
However, over 500 Sainsbury’s stores across the UK will close early in observance of the Early May Bank Holiday and VE Day. It’s recommended to use the Sainsbury’s Store Locator to check the specific opening times of your local store to avoid any inconvenience.
Final Tips for Shoppers
To make the most of your bank holiday shopping, you should know the supermarket bank holiday opening times with these useful tips:
- Always verify the opening and closing times of your local supermarket using their official website, app, or store locator tool.
- Consider shopping early in the morning or later in the evening when stores are typically less crowded to avoid the busiest times.
- If available, online delivery or click-and-collect services can save you time and help you avoid the crowds.
- Make a shopping list to ensure you get everything you need without unnecessary trips.
Wrap Up
Being aware of supermarket bank holiday opening times is essential to avoid any inconvenience. Plan and check store timings to ensure a smooth and stress-free shopping experience.
Remember to use store locator tools and consider shopping during off-peak hours to get a productive bank holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Asda is open on bank holidays. Most stores operate from 8 am to 5 pm on May 5, 2025. Hours may vary by location.
Yes, Tesco stores are open on May 5, 2025. Most large stores open from 8 am to 6 pm. Express store hours may vary.
The Early May bank holiday, observed on the first Monday of May, was established in 1978. It provides workers with a break during spring.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct your research.