UK Bank Holidays Calendar & Information

Looking forward to your holidays in 2025? It’s the perfect time to start planning your travels, and utilizing public holidays is key to making the most of your trips. Here, we’ve rounded up the bank holidays in the United Kingdom to help you maximize your vacation time.

UK bank holidays are typically spread throughout the year and refer to national public holidays, meaning many businesses will be closed. On these days, most shops and schools shut down, and public transport services may be reduced, so it’s wise to plan accordingly.

UK Bank Holiday Calendar

New Year’s Day

Date: January 1 (Wednesday)
New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1 and marks the beginning of the calendar year. It is a public UK bank holidays, where New Year’s Eve is widely celebrated with family and friends. At midnight, people often sing "Auld Lang Syne" to welcome the New Year. In London, crowds gather by the Thames to enjoy spectacular fireworks and light displays.

As you embark on your journey to the UK, immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of New Year’s Day. This special holiday is marked by a host of joyful activities that bring friends and family together to welcome the new year.
On this festive day, many gather for lively parties, indulging in delicious food and drinks while sharing laughter and good cheer. In London, thousands flock to the banks of the River Thames to witness breathtaking fireworks displays, particularly near the iconic London Eye, creating a magical atmosphere.

As the clock strikes midnight, the air fills with the heartfelt sounds of “Auld Lang Syne,” symbolizing a farewell to the old year and a warm welcome to the new one. In various cities, parades showcase colorful floats and entertaining performances, adding to the celebratory spirit.

Many take this opportunity to set New Year’s resolutions, aiming for personal growth and positive change, whether it’s committing to fitness or learning new skills. For those who prefer a more relaxed day, cozying up at home with a favorite movie or TV show is a perfect way to unwind.

In short, New Year’s Day in the UK is a time for family reunions and joyous celebrations. Don’t miss out on experiencing this festive atmosphere! Book your flight now and be part of the excitement as the UK welcomes a fresh start in the new year!

Saint Patrick’s Day

Date: March 17 (Monday)
Saint Patrick’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration observed annually on March 17, especially in Northern Ireland. The shamrock is a symbol of this day. Irish families traditionally attend church in the morning and celebrate with special foods like soda bread, cabbage, and corned beef in the afternoon.

Join the festivities this Saint Patrick’s Day and explore a variety of popular attractions throughout the UK! From lively parades to cultural events, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Irish heritage. Enjoy traditional music, delicious food, and community celebrations that bring everyone together.

Don’t miss out on the fun! Purchase your tickets now for the best attractions and make this Saint Patrick’s Day a memorable one!

Good Friday

Date: April 18 (Friday)
Good Friday is observed on the Friday before Easter and is a significant holy day for Christians, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many attend church services, and it’s customary to eat hot cross buns, which are said to bring good luck.

On Good Friday, many people in the UK engage in a variety of meaningful activities:

1. Attending Religious Services: Many individuals participate in church services to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. These services often include readings from the Bible and reflections on the significance of the day.
2. Reflection and Contemplation: Good Friday is a time for personal reflection and contemplation. Many people take this opportunity to think about their faith and spiritual growth.
3. Family Gatherings: Families often come together to share a meal, which may include traditional foods such as hot cross buns, a symbolic treat associated with the day.
4. Fasting and Abstinence: In line with Christian tradition, many choose to abstain from meat on Good Friday, opting instead for fish or vegetarian meals.
5. Participating in Special Events: Some communities hold processions, reenactments, or other commemorative events that honor the significance of Good Friday.

Overall, Good Friday is a solemn day of reflection and remembrance for many in the UK, marked by religious observances and family connections.

Easter Monday

Date: April 21 (Monday)
Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in some countries. This day is part of the Easter celebrations, which commemorate the last week of Jesus’ life, his death, and resurrection. It’s often a time for outdoor events as spring weather arrives.

Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is a public UK bank holidays, celebrated with a variety of activities and traditions:

1. Family Gatherings: Many families take the opportunity to spend time together, often enjoying a special meal or picnic.
2. Outdoor Activities: With spring in full bloom, Easter Monday is a popular day for outdoor activities. People often visit parks, gardens, or the countryside for walks, barbecues, or family outings.
3. Egg Rolling: A fun tradition in some areas involves rolling decorated eggs down hills, symbolizing the rolling away of the stone from Jesus' tomb. This activity is particularly popular in regions like Yorkshire.
4. Community Events: Various towns and cities host events such as fairs, markets, and festivals, often featuring live music, crafts, and food stalls.
5. Sporting Events: Easter Monday is also a day for sports, with many football matches and other sporting events taking place, drawing crowds of fans.

Overall, Easter Monday is a joyful continuation of the Easter celebrations, marked by family time, outdoor fun, and community spirit.

Early May Bank Holiday

Date: May 5 (Monday)
Also known as May Day, this holiday is observed on the first Monday in May. Established as a public holiday in 1978, it is associated with revelry and fertility rituals, such as maypole dancing and the crowning of a May Queen.

The Early May Bank Holiday, often referred to simply as May Day, is celebrated on the first Monday in May. It marks a significant break in the work calendar and is associated with various traditions and activities:

1. Public Celebrations: Many communities host local festivals featuring music, dance, and parades. Maypole dancing is a traditional highlight, where participants weave ribbons around a tall pole in a colorful display.
2. Outdoor Activities: With spring in full swing, people take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities. This might include picnics, hikes, or visits to parks and gardens.
3. Family Gatherings: The holiday provides an opportunity for families to come together, often enjoying meals or outings that celebrate the arrival of warmer weather.
4. May Day Events: Some regions have unique May Day events, such as crowning a "May Queen" or other local customs that reflect the history and culture of the area.
5. Community Involvement: Many people participate in community service or volunteer activities, emphasizing the spirit of togetherness and helping others.

Overall, the Early May Bank Holiday is a time of joy and celebration, embracing the beauty of spring and fostering community spirit across the UK.

Spring Bank Holiday

Date: May 26 (Monday)
The Spring Bank Holiday, or Late May Bank Holiday, offers a chance for people to enjoy a long weekend. Many take trips with family or friends, enjoying the outdoors and the spring countryside.

The Spring Bank Holiday, celebrated on the last Monday in May, is a public holiday that offers a chance for relaxation and enjoyment as spring transitions into summer. Here are some key aspects of this holiday:

1. Outdoor Activities: With warmer weather, many people take the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, or having picnics in parks and gardens.
2. Family Gatherings: This holiday is often a time for families to come together, whether for a barbecue at home or a day out exploring local attractions.
3. Community Events: Many towns and cities host festivals, fairs, and community events featuring live music, local crafts, and food stalls, celebrating the spirit of togetherness.
4. Sporting Events: Spring Bank Holiday often features various sporting activities, from local football matches to charity runs, encouraging community participation and engagement.
5. Short Getaways: For some, this holiday is an opportunity to take a short trip or weekend getaway, making the most of the long weekend.

Overall, the Spring Bank Holiday is a cherished time in the UK, offering a blend of outdoor fun, family bonding, and community spirit as everyone welcomes the joys of spring.

Battle of the Boyne

Date: July 12 (Saturday)
Commonly known as Orangemen’s Day, this holiday commemorates the Glorious Revolution and the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. It is significant for the Ulster Protestant community.

The Battle of the Boyne, celebrated on July 12, commemorates a significant event in British and Irish history that took place in 1690. Here are some key aspects of the holiday:

1. Historical Significance: The battle was fought between the deposed Catholic King James II of England and the Protestant King William III, who had taken the throne. William's victory at the Boyne River is viewed as a pivotal moment in establishing Protestant ascendancy in Ireland.
2. Orangemen’s Day: The day is commonly known as Orangemen’s Day, named after the Orange Order, a Protestant fraternal organization that celebrates the battle and its implications for Protestantism in Ireland.
3. Parades and Celebrations: In Northern Ireland and parts of England, large parades are held, featuring marching bands and participants dressed in orange sashes. These parades celebrate the historical significance of the battle and the identity of the Protestant community.
4. Community Events: Beyond parades, communities often organize local events, including fairs, concerts, and family gatherings, fostering a sense of community and heritage.
5. Controversy: While the day is a celebration for many, it can also be a contentious occasion, reflecting the complex historical and political relationships between different communities in Ireland and the UK.

Overall, the Battle of the Boyne is a day of historical remembrance and cultural expression, marked by vibrant parades and community activities, particularly in Northern Ireland.

August Bank Holiday

Date: August 26 (Monday)
The August Bank Holiday falls on the last Monday of August in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, it is celebrated on the first Monday of August. This holiday provides a break before the end of summer, and many people visit local beaches and parks.

The August Bank Holiday is celebrated on the last Monday of August in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while in Scotland, it falls on the first Monday of the month. This holiday marks the unofficial end of summer and is characterized by a variety of activities:

1. Outdoor Activities: With the summer weather still lingering, many people take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor pursuits such as picnics, barbecues, and visits to parks or beaches.
2. Family Time: The holiday provides an opportunity for families to gather, often taking trips or enjoying local attractions together.
3. Festivals and Events: Various towns and cities host festivals, fairs, and community events, including live music, cultural performances, and food markets, celebrating local culture and community spirit.
4. Sporting Events: The August Bank Holiday often features a range of sporting events, from local football matches to charity runs, bringing communities together.
5. Travel: Many people use this holiday as an opportunity for short breaks or vacations, making it a popular time for travel before the school year begins.

Overall, the August Bank Holiday is a cherished time in the UK, marked by a blend of leisure, community celebration, and the last hurrah of summer activities.

St Andrew’s Day

Date: November 30 (Sunday)
St Andrew's Day is celebrated on November 30 and is considered Scotland’s National Day. It features various events showcasing Scottish culture, music, and dance.

St Andrew’s Day, celebrated on November 30, is Scotland's official national day, honoring St Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland. Here are some key aspects of this holiday:

1. Cultural Celebrations: The day is marked by various cultural events and festivities that celebrate Scottish heritage, including music, dance, and traditional Scottish cuisine.
2. Public Events: Many towns and cities across Scotland host parades, festivals, and community gatherings. These events often feature bagpipers, folk music, and ceilidh dancing, showcasing the vibrant culture of Scotland.
3. Traditional Foods: People often enjoy traditional Scottish dishes on St Andrew’s Day, such as haggis, neeps (turnips), and tatties (potatoes), as well as whisky tasting.
4. Religious Observance: For some, the day includes attending church services to honor St Andrew and reflect on Scotland’s Christian heritage.
5. National Pride: St Andrew’s Day is an occasion for expressing national pride and identity, with many Scots displaying the Saltire (the national flag) and participating in various local customs.

Overall, St Andrew’s Day is a festive celebration of Scottish culture and identity, marked by community spirit, traditional music, and delicious food.

Christmas Day

Date: December 25 (Thursday)
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25, is one of the most important public UK bank holidays. While it retains a religious significance for many, it has also become a secular holiday focused on family gatherings and festivities.

Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25, is one of the most important holidays in the UK, filled with tradition, joy, and family gatherings. Here are some key aspects of this festive day:

1. Family Gatherings: Christmas Day is primarily a time for families to come together. Many people travel long distances to spend the day with loved ones, sharing meals and exchanging gifts.
2. Christmas Dinner: The traditional Christmas meal typically includes roast turkey, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce, followed by dessert, often featuring Christmas pudding or mince pies.
3. Gift Giving: It’s customary for families and friends to exchange gifts on Christmas morning. Many people place gifts under the Christmas tree, which are opened after breakfast.
4. Festive Traditions: Various customs are observed, such as hanging stockings for Santa Claus and decorating Christmas trees with lights and ornaments.
5. Religious Services: For those who celebrate the religious aspect of Christmas, attending a church service is common. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is particularly popular.
6. Christmas Specials: Many people enjoy watching special Christmas TV programs, movies, and sporting events, with the annual Queen’s Speech being a long-standing tradition.

Overall, Christmas Day in the UK is a cherished occasion, filled with warmth, joy, and a sense of community, as families celebrate together and create lasting memories.

Boxing Day

Date: December 26 (Friday)
Boxing Day, observed on December 26, is a public holiday that became popular during Queen Victoria's reign. It is associated with sports events and shopping sales and is celebrated in several other countries, including Canada and Australia.

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, is a public UK bank holidays and is known for its unique traditions and activities. Here are some key aspects of this festive day:

1. Shopping and Sales: Boxing Day is famous for its shopping sales, with many retailers offering significant discounts. People flock to stores or shop online to take advantage of the post-Christmas sales.
2. Sports Events: The day is also marked by various sporting events, including football matches and horse racing. The traditional Boxing Day football matches are especially popular, attracting large crowds.
3. Family Time: After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, Boxing Day often serves as a relaxed day for families to unwind together. Many people enjoy leftovers from the Christmas feast while spending quality time with loved ones.
4. Outdoor Activities: Some people take advantage of the day to go for walks or participate in outdoor activities, such as visiting local parks or hiking.
5. Charity and Giving: Historically, Boxing Day was a time for giving to those in need. Many people still engage in charitable activities, such as volunteering or donating to local organizations.

Overall, Boxing Day is a day of relaxation, shopping, and family fun, providing a perfect balance after the festive celebrations of Christmas.