The last May bank holiday is upon us, meaning everyone can start getting excited for a three-day weekend.
People across the country will be preparing to see friends and family in their gardens, with many keeping their fingers crossed that the weather improves following some miserable weather across the month.
But what does the bank holiday Monday mean for shop opening times?
When is the second May bank holiday?
The second bank holiday of the month takes place on May 31.
The spring bank holiday started as the Monday after Pentecost, also known as Whitsun.
The Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, moved the bank holiday to the last Monday in May, following a trial period from 1965 to 1970.
Are shops open on bank holiday Monday?
Most shops will be open, including your favourite supermarkets, but many of them may be operating reduced hours on the day.
The opening hours are also likely to vary depending on the location and size of the store.
Here are the times for major supermarkets:
- Sainsburys – Most larger stores will be open 8am-8pm, while most Sainsbury’s Locals will be open as usual. Check your local store opening hours here.
- Tesco – Larger stores and Tesco Metros will be open 8am-8pm, Tesco Express stores will be open as usual. Check your local store opening hours here.
- Asda – Stores will generally be open 8am-8pm, with some 24 hour stores also working reduced hours. Check your local store opening times here.
- Waitrose – Most stores will open from 8am-6pm. Check local store opening times here.
- Aldi – Stores will be open between 8am-8pm. Check your local times here.
- Lidl – Most stores will be open from 8am-10pm. Check your local store opening hours here.
- Marks and Spencer – Most M&S locations will be open between 8am and 8pm. Check your local store opening hours here.
Many other popular shopping destinations such as John Lewis and Primark, will operate reduced hours, with many John Lewis outlets open from 10am to 6pm instead of the usual 10am to 8pm.
Most Primark stores will operate their usual hours, but this may vary across cities, so always check their store locator before leaving your house.
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MORE : Will it rain on the May Bank Holiday weekend in London?
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