UK public holidays 2026 - when is the next bank holiday?
Consumer Editor
Bank holidays take place throughout the year to mark religious events, public holidays and special celebrations.
Whether you are planning to enjoy one of the best road trips in the UK or treat yourself to a short break in France, Belgium or Germany, bank holidays can be a great way to make that long weekend extra special.
In this travel advice guide, we highlight the public holidays in the UK for 2026.
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Public holiday and bank holiday dates for England and Wales in 2026
Public holiday | 2026 |
|---|---|
New Year's Day | Thursday 1st January |
Good Friday | Friday 3rd April |
Easter Monday | Monday 6th April |
May Bank Holiday | Monday 4th May |
Spring Bank Holiday | Monday 25th April |
Summer Bank Holiday | Monday 31st August |
Christmas | Friday 25th December |
Boxing Day (substitute day) | Monday 28th December |
Public holiday and bank holiday dates for Scotland in 2026
Public Holiday | 2026 |
|---|---|
New Year's Day | Thursday 1st January |
| Friday 2nd January |
Good Friday | Friday 3rd April |
Early May Bank Holiday | Monday 4th May |
Spring Bank Holiday | Monday 25th May |
Summer Bank Holiday | Monday 3rd August |
St Andrew’s Day | Monday 30th November |
Christmas Day | Friday 25th December |
Boxing Day (substitute day) | Monday 28th December |
Cheaper than AA Price Promise^
• Roadside cover from £5.29 a month
• We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
• Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns on the spot
^T&Cs apply.
^T&Cs apply.
When are the Easter holidays in 2026?
In 2026, the Easter Monday in the UK will take place on Monday 6th April. For many this will mean a three-day weekend, starting on Saturday 4th April 2026.
When are the school holidays in 2026?
Although the school terms change from year-to-year and each school can differ slightly from each other.
Regarding schools, this can also change whether they are state-run, private, or independent.
However, schools typically have three terms, split with half-terms, and then an extended break over the summer.
Here are when school holidays taka place in the UK:
- Christmas – from late December to early January
- Spring half-term – one week in February
- Easter – two weeks around Easter Sunday
- Summer half-term – a week between the second half of May and first half of June
- Summer – July to September
- Autumn half-term – one week in October
Travelling during Christmas holidays
Christmas in 2026 is on a Thursday, meaning that residents in the UK will have a national holiday on the 25th, as well as Friday 26th December.
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