Planning a trip to London? Knowing the public holiday dates can help you make the most of your visit. Some businesses and attractions may close or have limited hours on these days, and public transport services might be reduced. Here’s a comprehensive guide to UK bank holidays, school holidays, and things to do in London on these special days.
Public Holiday Dates
The UK observes several bank holidays each year. Below are the key dates for 2025 and 2026:
| Public Holiday | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Wednesday, 1 January | Thursday, 1 January |
| Good Friday | Friday, 18 April | Friday, 3 April |
| Easter Monday | Monday, 21 April | Monday, 6 April |
| Early May Bank Holiday | Monday, 5 May | Monday, 4 May |
| Spring Bank Holiday | Monday, 26 May | Monday, 25 May |
| Summer Bank Holiday | Monday, 25 August | Monday, 31 August |
| Christmas Day | Thursday, 25 December | Friday, 25 December |
| Boxing Day | Friday, 26 December | Monday, 28 December |
On public holidays, London’s public transport may have reduced service. Be sure to check schedules in advance.
Easter Holidays
The Easter period is a significant holiday in the UK. Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025, and April 5, 2026) sees large shops closed by law, though small shops and those in transport hubs may remain open.
Public transport services may be limited over the Easter weekend. Many attractions, however, remain open, making it a great time to explore the city.
School Holidays
If you’re planning to visit London with children, knowing school holiday dates can help you avoid peak times. School term dates vary, but generally, they follow this schedule:
- Summer Holiday: Late July – Early September
- Autumn Half-Term: Last week of October
- Christmas Holidays: Late December – Early January
- Spring Half-Term: Mid-February
- Easter Holidays: Two weeks around Easter
- Summer Half-Term: Late May – Early June
Check local school term dates before planning your visit to avoid crowds at attractions and higher accommodation prices.
Christmas Holidays and Closures
London is magical during Christmas, with festive lights, markets, and events. However, Christmas Day (December 25) and Boxing Day (December 26) are among the few days when the city almost completely shuts down:
- Public transport does not operate on Christmas Day and runs a limited service on Boxing Day.
- Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are closed on December 25 and 26.
- Some festive events, such as Christmas markets, may remain open, so check individual schedules in advance.
Things to Do in London on a Bank Holiday Weekend
A bank holiday in London is a great time to explore the city, attend events, and visit top attractions. Here are some ideas:
- New Year’s Day: Watch the famous London New Year’s Day Parade.
- Easter Weekend: Enjoy springtime at Kew Gardens or visit the Tower of London.
- May Bank Holidays: Relax in one of London’s parks or explore historic sites like Buckingham Palace.
- Summer Bank Holiday: Experience the Notting Hill Carnival, the largest street festival in Europe.
- Christmas and Boxing Day: Take a festive walk to see Christmas lights and decorations.
Make the most of your visit by checking attraction opening times and transport schedules in advance.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and take full advantage of what London has to offer during these special holidays!
