As the Easter 2026 bank holiday weekend approaches, several leading UK fashion and department store retailers have unveiled their planned opening and closing times for the crucial four-day period. Shoppers aiming to indulge in retail therapy during the long weekend must note significant deviations from standard trading hours, with policies varying substantially across different regions of the United Kingdom.
Regional Variations and Essential Checks
Opening hours differ markedly for stores located in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, particularly concerning Easter Sunday, which falls on April 5, 2026. Customers are strongly advised to verify exact times via individual store locators or official websites, as specific branches may operate with adjusted or reduced schedules. This comprehensive guide details the announced plans from major retailers to help you navigate the Easter shopping landscape.
Next Store Schedule
Next will close its stores on Easter Sunday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, its Scottish locations will remain open for business. Notably, seven out of twenty stores in Ireland will also open on Easter Sunday. The retailer will operate on Good Friday, April 3, and Easter Saturday, April 4, though hours vary by individual store. Shoppers should consult the Next website for precise local opening times.
Marks and Spencer Operations
Marks and Spencer stores will open on Good Friday, Easter Saturday, and Easter Monday, April 6, with hours subject to variation by location. The majority of stores, excluding those in Scotland, will be closed on Easter Sunday. Convenience stores across the UK will remain open on Easter Sunday, and all Scottish branches will also trade. Customers are encouraged to use the M&S store locator or mobile application for accurate local opening information.
John Lewis Trading Hours
John Lewis stores will be open on Good Friday and Easter Monday, although some branches may implement reduced hours. The majority of stores outside Scotland will be closed on Easter Sunday, while Scottish locations will stay open. For precise opening times, shoppers should utilize the John Lewis branch finder available on its official website.
Primark Opening Details
All UK Primark stores will open on Good Friday, Easter Saturday, and Easter Monday. Stores outside Scotland will be closed on Easter Sunday, but Scottish branches will remain open. Trading hours over the bank holiday weekend may differ from normal schedules, so checking the Primark website for local store specifics is recommended.
Matalan Holiday Schedule
Matalan stores will operate normal trading hours on Good Friday from 9am to 8pm and on Easter Saturday from 9am to 7pm. All stores outside Scotland will be closed on Easter Sunday, while Scottish locations will open with normal hours from 9am to 6pm. On Easter Monday, most stores will trade between 9am and 6pm, though variations may apply.
Additional Retailer Information
Other major retailers are expected to follow similar patterns. B&M large stores are likely to close on Easter Sunday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while opening on Good Friday, Saturday, and Monday. Dunelm often operates from 9am to 6pm on Good Friday, with normal hours on Easter Saturday, closure on Easter Sunday in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, normal operations in Scotland, and varied, often reduced hours on Easter Monday. Boots may have reduced opening hours on Good Friday, with many larger branches closing or reducing hours on Easter Sunday, though smaller or pharmacy-linked stores might open with limited service, and reduced hours again on Easter Monday.
Shoppers are urged to confirm details for their local store directly with each retailer before visiting, as minor variations can occur at specific branches. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and efficient shopping experience during the bustling Easter holiday period.
