The Sunday Trading Act 1994 allows small retail shops (less than 280 square metres floor space) to open at any time on a Sunday, for 24 hours if necessary.

However, large shops (above 280 square metres floor space) have their Sunday opening hours limited to any six continuous hours between 10am - 6pm.

Large shop operators must display their Sunday opening hours both at the entrance and inside the premises. No large shop may open on Easter Sunday or Christmas Day (if it is a Sunday).

There are exemptions for certain large shops: 

  • retail shops run by Jewish proprietors if they observe the Jewish Sabbath
  • farm shops
  • restaurants
  • public houses
  • motor cycle supply shops
  • exhibitions
  • petrol filling stations
  • pharmacies
  • hairdressers
  • shoe repairers

If you require advice on the law regarding Sunday trading please contact us.