UK Bank Holidays 2025: Full List & How to Make the Most of Them

 UK Bank Holidays 2025: Full List & How to Make the Most of Them

Bank holidays are the perfect opportunity to relax, travel, or enjoy a long weekend. Here’s the full list of UK bank holidays in 2025, plus tips on how to maximise your time off.

UK Bank Holidays 2025 – Full List

England & Wales

• 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

Scotland (Additional/alternative dates)

• Wednesday, 1 January – New Year’s Day
• Thursday, 2 January – 2nd January (Scotland only)
• Friday, 18 April – Good Friday
• Monday, 5 May – Early May Bank Holiday
• Monday, 26 May – Spring Bank Holiday
• Monday, 4 August – Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland only)
• Thursday, 25 December – Christmas Day
• Friday, 26 December – Boxing Day

Northern Ireland (Extra holiday)

• 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
• Tuesday, 1 July – Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day)
• Monday, 25 August – Summer Bank Holiday
• Thursday, 25 December – Christmas Day
• Friday, 26 December – Boxing Day

How to Make the Most of UK Bank Holidays in 2025

1. Plan Mini Breaks & Long Weekends

Easter (18-21 April) – Take a short trip to Europe or explore the UK’s countryside.

Late May (24-26 May) – Book a staycation or festival (e.g., Hay Festival, Chelsea Flower Show).

August Bank Holiday (23-25 Aug) – Ideal for a last-minute summer getaway.

2. Extend Your Leave Strategically

Christmas & New Year (25 Dec - 1 Jan 2026) – Book 3 days off (29-31 Dec) for a 10-day break.

Early May Bank Holiday (3-5 May) – Take 2 days off (1-2 May) for a 5-day weekend.

3. Enjoy Local Events & Festivals

Edinburgh Fringe Festival (Aug) – Perfect for the Scottish Summer Bank Holiday.

Notting Hill Carnival (Aug Bank Holiday, London) – A vibrant cultural experience.

4. Get Ahead on Personal Projects

Use extra days off for hobbies, home improvements, or side hustles without using annual leave.

5. Avoid Peak Travel Times

If possible, travel a day before or after bank holidays to dodge crowds and high prices.