Are the shops open on bank holiday Monday?

Close up of open sign on glass door to a bakery. — What shops are open on bank holiday Monday? (Picture: Getty)

May is finally upon us, meaning everyone can start getting excited for two bank holidays – that’s right, two three-day weekends are on the horizon.

With the first bank holiday just around the corner, people across the country will be preparing to see friends and family in their gardens, with fingers crossed that the weather is on their side.

But what does the bank holiday Monday mean for shop opening times?

When are the May bank holidays?

Two young women enjoying a pizza and some win in the park, while sat on a purple blanket. — Many will be hoping the weather stays dry… (Picture: Getty)

The first bank holiday of the month will be on May 3 – it always occurs on the first Monday of May.

The second bank holiday will fall on May 31, and similarly always takes place on the last Monday of the month.

Are the shops open on bank holiday Monday?

A young woman walks past a Marks & Spencer's doorway on a high street. — Many shops, like M&S, may be operating on reduced hours (Picture: Getty)

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.