Aldi has issued a fresh reminder to shoppers planning trips over the early May bank holiday, setting out when stores will be open and identifying the calmest times to visit. The guidance comes as households prepare for the long weekend and, according to the Met Office, a changeable spell of weather that could keep many people indoors and heading to the shops before the break. Aldi, which remains the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket, is also continuing to promote its value offer after research from Which? again named it the country’s cheapest supermarket.

For those trying to avoid the busiest periods, Aldi says the quietest windows are usually early in the morning, between 8am and 9am, and later in the evening, from 7pm to 10pm. That advice mirrors the retailer’s broader guidance on quieter shopping slots, including a trial of sensory-friendly evening hours in 98 stores across parts of the Midlands and Yorkshire, designed to make the store environment more comfortable for customers who find noise and crowds difficult.

Over the bank holiday itself, Aldi says stores will be open from 8am to 10pm on Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2. On Sunday, May 3, hours will be shorter, with doors opening at 10am and closing at 4pm. On Monday, May 4, most branches are expected to trade from 8am to 8pm, although Aldi is advising customers to check local opening times online because hours can vary by store.

Rachel Geary, Aldi UK’s communications director, said the supermarket wanted to make it easier for customers to stock up for the long weekend and focus on family plans, whether that meant a garden gathering or a day out with snacks in tow. Aldi is also using the bank holiday period to highlight seasonal promotions elsewhere in the business, including a search for a child to test its Wooden Toy range ahead of the summer collection’s launch later in May.

Entries for the UK Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 are still open. Don’t miss your chance to be recognised among the UK’s finest – submit your entries today. For more information on categories, entry criteria, and deadlines, please visit UK Quality Food & Drink Awards 2026 - 2026 Enter Awards