UK Bank Holidays 2025 Complete List: Maximize Your Time Off
If you’re scheduling your time off this year and want to make the most of your breaks and long weekends, a good idea is to be aware of the UK bank holidays 2025, whether you’re organizing a family getaway or just aiming not to overlook any dates in your calendar.
The holidays can vary in different regions in the UK, including England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. In this blog, you will get all the details about the upcoming holidays, so you can plan your year ahead.
What are UK bank holidays?
In the UK, bank holidays are the holidays on which banks and many other businesses are closed, and people get the day off work. Another thing to keep in mind is that most bank holidays fall on a Monday or a Friday, making them a great opportunity if you are planning something on the weekend.
How many UK bank holidays are there in 2025?
In 2025, the total number of bank holidays in the UK varies by region:
- England and Wales: 8
- Scotland: 9
- Northern Ireland: 10
So far, with New Year’s Day checked off the list, there are still more bank holidays to enjoy in 2025. In the milder spring and summer months, we enjoy multiple bank holidays, plenty of time to relax in the sun!
UK Bank Holidays 2025: England & Wales
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 21 April | Monday | Easter Monday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 25 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
UK Bank Holidays 2025: Scotland
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 2 January | Thursday | 2nd January |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 4 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 1 December | Monday | St Andrew’s Day (Substitute) |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
UK Bank Holidays 2025: Northern Ireland
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 17 March | Monday | St Patrick’s Day |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 21 April | Monday | Easter Monday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 12 July | Saturday | Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day) |
| 25 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
What happens if a bank holiday falls on a weekend in 2025?
If a bank holiday happens to fall on a weekend, the following Monday (aka the next working day) is designated as a bank holiday instead. However, no bank holidays in 2025 fall on the weekend!
How do bank holidays affect holiday provision?
In the UK, every full-time employee has a right to at least 28 days of paid annual leave. Some companies offer more, including unlimited paid holidays.
Conclusion
Being aware of upcoming bank holidays helps you plan your vacations efficiently. UK bank holidays in 2025 vary across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Platforms like Zelt provide useful leave tracking and payroll solutions to help manage time off more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between bank holidays and public holidays?
Bank holidays are the official days when banks and many other businesses are closed, while public holidays include bank holidays and also cover regional or cultural holidays.
Does working on a bank holiday mean I get extra pay?
Not always. UK law doesn’t guarantee extra pay for working on bank holidays, but some employers offer additional compensation or time off in lieu.
Are UK bank holidays the same across all regions?
No, bank holidays vary by region. For instance, Scotland has unique holidays like St Andrew’s Day, while Northern Ireland observes St Patrick’s Day.
When are the May bank holidays in 2025?
Early May Bank Holiday: Monday, 5th May 2025
Spring Bank Holiday: Monday, 26th May 2025
Is New Year’s Day 2025 a bank holiday?
Yes, 1st January 2025 is a bank holiday across the UK.
Can my employer require me to work on a bank holiday?
Yes, unless your contract states otherwise. Some businesses stay open, and employees may be required to work, sometimes with enhanced pay or alternative time off.
