If you are planning a celebratory barbecue or need to restock the fridge for the long weekend, it is vital to know the supermarket schedules for the upcoming break. The Early May Bank Holiday 2026 falls on Monday 4 May, and while shops do not face the same total closures as Easter Sunday, many of the largest stores in Southampton will operate with reduced hours on the Monday.
When is the Early May Bank Holiday 2026?
It is important to keep the key dates in mind as you plan your shopping trips. In 2026, the first May bank holiday provides a three-day weekend for residents across the city.
- Saturday 2 May 2026: Normal Saturday hours
- Sunday 3 May 2026: Normal Sunday hours (10am – 4pm or 11am – 5pm)
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2026: Reduced bank holiday hours
Important Rule: Trading on Bank Holiday Monday
Unlike Easter Sunday, there is no legal requirement for large shops to close entirely on a bank holiday Monday. However, under the Sunday Trading Act 1994, large stores (those over 280 square metres) must still adhere to restricted hours on the Sunday of the bank holiday weekend.
On the Monday itself, most major supermarket chains choose to operate on a “Sunday schedule” or slightly extended bank holiday hours, typically closing by 8pm. Smaller convenience stores, such as Tesco Express or Sainsbury’s Local, generally maintain their standard late-opening hours, providing a reliable option for late-night essentials.
Southampton Supermarket Opening Times (May Bank Holiday 2026)
While most major chains follow a similar pattern, local variations can occur. Below is a detailed breakdown for the main providers in Southampton for Bank Holiday Monday, 4 May.
Aldi
Aldi stores across Southampton will operate with slightly reduced hours on the Monday to allow staff more time with their families.
- Saturday 2 May: 8am to 10pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 8pm
Asda
Where: The Marlands, Western Esplanade, Southampton, SO14 7EG
- Saturday 2 May: 7am to 11pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 8pm
Lidl
The following Lidl stores in the Southampton area, including Shirley Road and Commercial Road, will follow this schedule:
- Saturday 2 May: 8am to 10pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 8pm
Morrisons
Where: Spruce Drive, Totton, Southampton, SO40 8AD
- Saturday 2 May: 6am to 10pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 7am to 8pm
Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s Superstores will see changes, but their “Local” branches remain the best bet for late-night shopping.
Sainsbury’s Superstores (Lordshill, Hedge End, and Eastleigh)
- Saturday 2 May: 7am to 10pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 8pm
Sainsbury’s Local Stores (Portswood, Shirley, and Bitterne)
- Saturday 2 May: 7am to 11pm
- Sunday 3 May: 7am to 11pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 7am to 11pm
Tesco
The large Tesco stores at Tebourba Way and Hamble Lane will be busy, so shopping early is recommended.
- Saturday 2 May: 6am to midnight
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 6pm
Waitrose
Where: 121/131 Portswood Road, Portswood, Southampton, SO17 2FX
- Saturday 2 May: 8am to 8pm
- Sunday 3 May: 10am to 4pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 8am to 6pm
Marks & Spencer (M&S)
Where: Westquay Shopping Centre, Southampton, SO15 1BA
- Saturday 2 May: 9am to 8pm
- Sunday 3 May: 11am to 5pm
- Bank Holiday Monday 4 May: 9am to 6pm
What This Means for Southampton Shoppers
Planning your grocery runs around the bank holiday avoids the stress of arriving at a locked door.
- Standard Sunday restrictions still apply: Because Sunday 3 May is not a “restricted” holiday like Easter, stores will open for their usual six-hour window.
- Early closing on Monday: Do not assume your local superstore is open until 10pm or 11pm on the Monday. Most will shut their doors by 8pm.
- Convenience stores are key: If you realise you have run out of charcoal or burger buns late on Monday evening, the smaller local branches are your best resource.
Top Tips for Bank Holiday Shopping in the City
- Beat the BBQ rush: If the weather forecast is clear, Saturday afternoon will be the busiest time for meat and drink sections. Aim to shop before 10am on Saturday.
- Check the Westquay schedule: If you are heading to M&S in Westquay, remember that the whole centre operates on bank holiday hours, which may affect parking and access.
- Use online trackers: Supermarket websites update their store locators in real-time. It is the most reliable way to check a specific Southampton postcode.
The Early May Bank Holiday is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the city’s parks and waterfront. By checking the supermarket May bank holiday opening times Southampton, you can ensure your weekend is spent relaxing rather than rushing.
If you are looking for more ways to spend your extra day off, what’s on in the city can be found in our guide to May activities in Southampton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are supermarkets closed on Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2026?
No, supermarkets are generally open on bank holiday Monday, but most large stores operate with reduced hours, typically 8am to 8pm.
What time does Tesco close in Southampton on the May bank holiday?
Large Tesco stores in Southampton, such as the one at Tebourba Way, are expected to close at 6pm on Bank Holiday Monday.
Is Westquay open on Bank Holiday Monday?
Yes, Westquay Shopping Centre will be open on Monday 4 May, though it will likely operate with shorter bank holiday hours, such as 10am to 6pm.
