Source: Sharecast
Retail sales increased 1.2% on the month following a 0.1% jump in March, which was revised down from 0.4% growth. Analysts were expecting a 0.3% increase.
The ONS said food stores sales volumes grew strongly, up 3.9%, mostly recovering from falls in February and March.
Supermarkets, specialist food stores such as butchers and bakers, and alcohol and tobacco stores all saw growth, with some retailers putting this down to the good weather.
ONS senior statistician Hannah Finselbach said: "Sunny skies and warm temperatures helped boost retail sales in April with strong trading across most sectors.
"After a poor couple of months, food sales bounced back with supermarkets reporting robust sales, while it was also a positive month for butchers and bakers, alcohol and tobacco stores.
"Conversely, after a good March, clothing sales fell this month, although it was a brighter picture for department stores and household good shops whose sales grew."