Are Shops Open on December 28th in London? Yes, It's a Normal Trading Day

No, shops are not closed on December 28th in London.

The Holiday Calendar

• December 25 (Christmas Day): **Public Holiday.** Almost all shops closed (large shops >280 m² *must* close by law).
• December 26 (Boxing Day): **Public Holiday.** Historically closed, but now **most large retailers OPEN** (major sales start). Some independent/small shops may close.
• December 27: Normal weekday (or weekend). All shops open.
• December 28: **Normal weekday (or weekend). NO public holiday. ALL shops open regular hours.**

Why the Confusion?

People conflate the "Christmas shutdown" period. In reality, only **Dec 25** has mandatory closure for large stores. Dec 26 is a major *sales* day. Dec 27–28 are completely normal trading days. Jan 1 (New Year's Day) is the next public holiday with closures.

2024/2025 Specifics

• **2024:** Dec 28 = Saturday. Normal Saturday hours (most large shops 9am–7pm/8pm).
• **2025:** Dec 28 = Sunday. Normal Sunday hours (large shops 6-hr max, typically 11am–5pm or 12pm–6pm due to Sunday Trading Act 1994).