What are the public holidays in the UK in 2026 and 2027?

In the United Kingdom, there are 8 official public holidays (Bank Holidays) each year, compared with 11 in Germany. Fewer in number, but just as significant, these days mark important breaks in British life, giving families time to travel, attend cultural events, or simply relax together.

If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it is automatically moved to the following Monday (substitute day), ensuring that people don't "lose" their day off.

UK public holidays in 2026

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
Saturday 26 December - Boxing Day (moved to Monday 28 December)

Planning a family trip? Check out our guide to the school calendar 2026-2027 in the UK.

UK public holidays in 2025

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

UK public holidays in 2024

Monday 1 January - New Year's Day
Friday 29 March - Good Friday
Monday 1 April - Easter Monday
Monday 6 May - Early May Bank Holiday
Monday 27 May - Spring Bank Holiday
Monday 26 August - Summer Bank Holiday
Wednesday 25 December - Christmas Day
Thursday 26 December - Boxing Day

Different holidays across the UK nations

The United Kingdom is made up of four nations, each with its own specificities:

Scotland: does not celebrate Easter Monday, but has holidays on 2 January and St Andrew's Day (30 November).
Northern Ireland: adds two public holidays - St Patrick's Day (17 March) and the Battle of the Boyne (12 July).
England and Wales: share the standard list of 8 Bank Holidays.

In 2022 and 2023, the Crown declared two exceptional public holidays: 3 June 2022 for the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, and 8 May 2023 for the coronation of King Charles III.

Origin of Bank Holidays

The term Bank Holiday comes from the Bank Holidays Act of 1871, which introduced a few days off specifically for bank employees. The very first official holiday was 5 August 1871, allowing bankers to attend a cricket match at the Oval in London. Gradually, these days were extended to all workers and became national holidays. The 1971 Act further expanded and formalised the list, shaping the calendar we know today.

Cultural highlights

Boxing Day (26 December): once intended for servants and the poor, today it is associated with shopping sales and sporting events.
Good Friday & Easter Monday: mark the Easter weekend, an important religious and family celebration with egg hunts and traditional meals.
Summer Bank Holiday: closes the summer with major events, including the famous Notting Hill Carnival in London.

Practical tips for travelling during a Bank Holiday

Plan ahead: trains, buses and flights fill up quickly, and prices rise.
Book your accommodation early if you travel during a long weekend.
Check schedules: on 25 and 26 December, many attractions close or reduce their opening hours.
Enjoy the atmosphere: concerts, carnivals and sporting events are often held during these holidays.

These dates are ideal for planning a family trip to London or a getaway in the English countryside.

The UK public holiday calendar for 2025 and 2026 includes 8 Bank Holidays each year, with occasional additional days declared by the monarch. Planning ahead will help you organise trips to London, schedule family holidays and better understand the British rhythm of life.