What Are Bank Holidays in the UK?
Bank holidays, also known as public holidays, are days when most businesses, schools, and public services close across the UK. They provide opportunities for rest, family time, and travel. However, dates vary by nation: England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland each have unique schedules. England and Wales share most dates with Northern Ireland, while Scotland differs notably.
These holidays are set by law via the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, with announcements typically two years in advance by the UK Government. From 2025 to 2026, expect eight to ten holidays per region, including fixed dates like Christmas and moveable ones tied to Easter.
This guide covers all bank holidays UK 2025 to 2026, aligned with official sources like gov.uk. Whether planning a long weekend or summer getaway, knowing these dates helps avoid surprises. Note: some sectors like hospitality and emergency services operate reduced hours.
Bank Holidays in 2025
2025 features a mix of early-year celebrations and summer breaks. Easter falls later than usual, extending some weekends.
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland 2025
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Wednesday 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Friday 18 April | Good Friday |
| Monday 21 April | Easter Monday |
| Monday 5 May | Early May bank holiday |
| Monday 26 May | Spring bank holiday |
| Monday 25 August | Summer bank holiday |
| Thursday 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Friday 26 December | Boxing Day |
Total: 8 holidays. The August bank holiday is the last Monday, ideal for seaside trips.
Scotland 2025
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Wednesday 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Thursday 2 January | 2nd January holiday |
| Friday 18 April | Good Friday |
| Monday 5 May | Early May bank holiday |
| Monday 26 May | Spring bank holiday |
| Monday 4 August | Summer bank holiday |
| Monday 1 December | St Andrew’s Day substitute (30 Nov is Sunday) |
| Thursday 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Friday 26 December | Boxing Day |
Scotland enjoys nine holidays, with an earlier summer break and Hogmanay focus.
Bank Holidays in 2026
As of April 2026, the full 2026 list is confirmed. Easter is early, and Christmas substitutes apply due to weekend falls.
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland 2026
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Thursday 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Friday 3 April | Good Friday |
| Monday 6 April | Easter Monday |
| Monday 4 May | Early May bank holiday |
| Monday 25 May | Spring bank holiday |
| Monday 31 August | Summer bank holiday |
| Friday 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Monday 28 December | Boxing Day substitute (26 Dec is Saturday) |
Total: 8 holidays. The Boxing Day shift creates a four-day weekend.
Scotland 2026
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Thursday 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Friday 2 January | 2nd January holiday |
| Friday 3 April | Good Friday |
| Monday 4 May | Early May bank holiday |
| Monday 25 May | Spring bank holiday |
| Monday 3 August | Summer bank holiday |
| Monday 30 November | St Andrew’s Day |
| Friday 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Monday 28 December | Boxing Day substitute |
Scotland has ten holidays, including St Andrew’s on a Monday—no substitute needed.
Key Regional Differences
- New Year: Scotland adds 2 January.
- Easter Monday: Not statutory in Scotland; many employers grant it.
- Summer Bank Holiday: Scotland (first Monday August), others (last Monday August).
- St Andrew’s Day: Scotland only (30 Nov or substitute).
Northern Ireland mirrors England/Wales but adds 12 July (Battle of the Boyne, not listed here as standard bank holiday).
Substitute Bank Holidays Explained
If Christmas (25 Dec) or Boxing Day (26 Dec) fall on weekends, substitutes shift to the next weekday:
- Weekend Christmas → Next Monday or Tuesday.
2025: Both on weekdays—no substitutes. 2026: Boxing Day Saturday → Monday 28 Dec (all regions where applicable). St Andrew’s 2025 Sunday → Monday 1 Dec (Scotland).
Scotland applies similar rules for its holidays.
Planning Around Bank Holidays 2025-2026
Travel Tips
Book trains, flights, and hotels early—routes like London to Edinburgh peak. Expect traffic on M1, M6. Use apps like National Rail or Citymapper.
Long Weekends
- 2025: Easter (18-21 Apr: four days E/W/NI), August (23-25 Aug).
- 2026: Easter (3-6 Apr: four days), New Year (1-2 Jan Scotland), Christmas (25-28 Dec: four days).
Business Impacts
Payroll must account for holidays. Shops often open reduced hours; supermarkets 9am-6pm. Confirm with ACAS for employee rights.
Events and Festivals
- May Day: Morris dancing, fairs.
- Spring: Chelsea Flower Show (late May).
- August: Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
School Holidays Alignment
Bank holidays often bridge half-terms:
- Easter 2025/2026: Matches school breaks.
- Summer: Precedes/starts holidays. Check gov.uk/school-holidays for local authorities.
How to Check Official Updates
Visit gov.uk/bank-holidays for the latest. Changes are rare but possible (e.g., state funerals). Apps like Bank Holiday Calendar provide reminders.
FAQs on UK Bank Holidays 2025-2026
Are bank holidays paid?
Yes, for most full-time workers—check contract.
Do banks close?
Yes, hence the name, though ATMs operate.
Can I work on a bank holiday?
Often at premium rates; voluntary.
What about part-year workers?
Pro-rata entitlement.
Northern Ireland specifics?
Adds 12 July 2026 (Monday).
This comprehensive guide ensures you’re prepared for bank holidays UK 2025 to 2026. Share with colleagues and plan those getaways!
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