Waitrose Opening Times: Everything You Need to Know About Store Hours in 2026

Understanding Waitrose Opening Times

Planning your shopping trip to Waitrose requires knowing the right opening times, and with over 350 stores across the UK, understanding when your local branch is open has become increasingly important for busy shoppers. Whether you’re planning a quick morning shop or an evening grocery run, Waitrose aims to accommodate diverse schedules with flexible hours that vary by location and day of the week.

Standard Weekly Opening Hours

Waitrose stores are generally open seven days a week: Monday through Friday from 8 am to 9 pm, Saturdays from 8 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. However, it’s crucial to note that these are typical hours, and individual stores may have different schedules based on their location, size, and local regulations. Urban stores in busy shopping centres often maintain extended hours, whilst smaller convenience stores may operate on slightly modified schedules.

Bank Holiday and Special Occasions

Opening times vary significantly during bank holidays and festive periods. On New Year’s Day Waitrose will also be open, with most stores operating from 10am to 6pm, though customers are advised to verify specific times before travelling. Hours may vary on New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Eastern, Christmas, Boxing Day, and other bank holidays, making it essential to plan ahead during these periods.

How to Check Your Local Store Hours

The most reliable way to confirm opening times is through Waitrose’s official resources. The Branch finder page has all the information you need to know about opening times (including Bank Holidays and Christmas hours – when available), grocery delivery services, John Lewis Click & Collect and services such as dry cleaning. The store locator on waitrose.com allows customers to search by postcode or location, displaying precise opening hours for each branch.

Why Opening Times Matter

Understanding Waitrose opening times is more than just convenience—it’s about making the most of your shopping experience. With stores open seven days a week, customers have flexibility, but confirming hours prevents wasted journeys, especially during reduced holiday hours or for stores in different regions. As shopping habits evolve and customer needs change, Waitrose continues adapting its opening hours to serve communities effectively across England, Scotland, and Wales.