When do pubs open on Easter Monday? Bank holiday opening times
The Easter weekend is upon us, some may choose to relax and some may choose to hit the booze. Here's what you need to know when it comes to pubs
THE long Easter weekend is upon us and many will be looking forwards to having a few drinks in celebration.
But when exactly are the pubs open over the Easter weekend and do they need to close early?
Are opening times different for pubs over the Easter weekend?
Well, there’s good news, and there’s bad news.
Pub lovers will be happy to hear that the majority of UK pubs don’t have to close at any specific time, but if you're worried double check with your favourite boozer.
Under the Licensing Act 2003, pubs are able to choose the hours they wish to work – but councils need to approve them.
If they want, pubs can apply to stay open for longer than their usual opening hours, but this isn’t always approved.
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On the flip-side, the bad news is that this also means watering holes can close earlier than their usual time if they want to - you’ll have to check with your local pub for to make sure.
In Northern Ireland, the laws are much stricter, with restrictions on selling alcohol in place from the Thursday before Easter until Easter Sunday.
According to the current Northern Ireland Assembly mandate, pubs can only serve alcohol between the hours of 5pm and 11pm on Good Friday and they’ll have to stop serving alcohol at midnight on Thursday and Easter Saturday.
Where can I find out whether or not my local pub is open?
Your best bet is to check with your chosen venue or your local council.
But, if your favourite boozer is part of a franchise you may be able to double check the hours online.
For Wetherspoon pubs, – so check there first.
Meanwhile, the , so you can phone your local branch before you turn up - as do