Bank Holidays in the UK: Dates and Planning for 2024, 2025, and 2026
Planning around bank holidays can help maximize long weekends and make the most of time off. Here’s a breakdown of upcoming bank holidays in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, along with key regional differences.
Upcoming Bank Holidays in England and Wales
2024
- 25 December 2024 (Wednesday) – Christmas Day
- 26 December (Friday) – Boxing Day
2025
- 1 January (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day
- 18 April (Friday) – Good Friday
- 21 April (Monday) – Easter Monday
- 5 May (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
- 26 May (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
- 25 August (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
- 25 December (Thursday) – Christmas Day
- 26 December (Friday) – Boxing Day
2026
- 1 January (Thursday) – New Year’s Day
- 3 April (Friday) – Good Friday
- 6 April (Monday) – Easter Monday
- 4 May (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
- 25 May (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
- 31 August (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
- 25 December (Friday) – Christmas Day
- 28 December (Monday) – Boxing Day (substitute day)
Regional Variations and Additional Holidays
Scotland
- 2 January – 2nd January Holiday
- 4 August (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
- 30 November – St. Andrew’s Day
- 1 December (observed) – St. Andrew’s Day if it falls on a weekend
Northern Ireland
- 17 March – St. Patrick’s Day
- 21 April – Easter Monday (shared with England and Wales)
- 12 July (Saturday) – Battle of the Boyne
- 14 July (Monday) – Observed Battle of the Boyne
Tips for Planning Around UK Bank Holidays
- Check Regional Dates: Each country within the UK has unique bank holiday dates, so it’s essential to confirm them, especially when traveling or coordinating with others in different regions.
- Holiday Closures: Many businesses close on these dates, so make sure to confirm opening hours if you’re planning activities or travel around bank holidays.
- Extend Weekends: Bank holidays on Fridays and Mondays create ideal opportunities for long weekends.
Please check the official UK government website for the latest bank holidays in the UK and any regional variations before planning your holidays.
