References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
If you work weekdays or can’t easily take time off, Saturday STI testing can be more convenient. Many NHS sexual health clinics offer Saturday openings, though availability varies by region. Private clinics and home test kits fill in any gaps for weekend access.
Here’s where to look.
Order a discreet home STI test
Options for Saturday Testing
| Option | Saturday Availability |
|---|---|
| NHS sexual health clinic | Varies — many cities offer Saturday appointments or walk-in |
| Private sexual health clinic | Often open Saturdays |
| Home test kit | Order any day, post back when ready |
| GP surgery | Usually closed on Saturdays |
| A&E | Open 24/7 but only for emergencies |
Finding an NHS Clinic Near You
Visit the NHS website and use the sexual health clinic finder. Many clinics in major UK cities offer Saturday hours. Look for:
- “Weekend clinic” in the service name
- Walk-in clinics with extended hours
- Drop-in centres in city centres
- Young people’s weekend services
Home Testing as a Backup
If no local Saturday clinic works for you, home kits let you:
- Order any day from home
- Collect samples at your convenience
- Post back without needing to visit a clinic
- Get results privately by text or email
Private Saturday Clinics
Private sexual health clinics in London and other cities often offer extended and weekend hours. They’re paid but give convenient access with quick results. Check:
- Reviews and Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration
- What’s included in the test panel
- Whether treatment is offered on the same day
- Costs before booking
What to Do If No Saturday Option Is Available
- Order a home test kit — it works any day of the week
- Book the next available weekday slot
- Use your lunch break during the week for a quick clinic visit
- Walk-in clinics may have shorter waits than you’d expect
Urgent Weekend Concerns
If you have severe symptoms, suspect HIV exposure within the last 72 hours (needing PEP), or have been sexually assaulted, go to A&E or call NHS 111. These are exceptions to the “wait until Monday” rule.
Read more: Discreet testing | Private STI testing | Home STI tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all sexual health clinics open on Saturdays?
No. Check local services in advance.
Can I walk in on a Saturday without an appointment?
Some clinics allow this. Phone or check online first.
Is home testing as good as clinic testing?
For basic screening, yes. For symptoms needing examination, clinic is better.
Related reading
- How Accurate Are Rapid HIV Tests?
- Anonymous STI Testing: What It Means
- Are HIV Tests Accurate If You're on PrEP, PEP or ART?
- Are STI Blood Tests Accurate?
- Before You Get Intimate: Why You Should Ask About STI Testing
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
