United Kingdom Public Holidays 2026

January 2026

  • New Year’s Day – Thursday, 1 January
    The UK welcomes the new year with celebrations, fireworks, and gatherings. It is a public holiday across all four nations.

March 2026

  • St David’s Day (Wales - Observed, Not a Bank Holiday) – Sunday, 1 March
    This day honors St David, the patron saint of Wales, with parades and cultural celebrations.

April 2026

  • Good Friday – Friday, 3 April
    A Christian holiday marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed with church services and quiet reflection.

  • Easter Monday (Except Scotland) – Monday, 6 April
    Celebrated in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland with family gatherings, egg hunts, and other festivities.

May 2026

  • Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, 4 May
    Also known as May Day, this holiday is associated with springtime celebrations and traditional dances.

  • Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, 25 May
    A public holiday marking the arrival of summer, often enjoyed with outdoor activities and local events.

June 2026

  • Trooping the Colour (Not a Bank Holiday, but Celebrated Nationally) – Saturday, 13 June
    A grand parade in London celebrating the official birthday of the British monarch, featuring military displays.

July 2026

  • Orangemen’s Day (Northern Ireland Only) – Sunday, 12 July
    A significant holiday in Northern Ireland commemorating the Battle of the Boyne (1690), marked by parades and celebrations.

August 2026

  • Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) – Monday, 3 August
    A public holiday in Scotland, often celebrated with festivals and outdoor events.

  • Summer Bank Holiday (England, Wales & Northern Ireland) – Monday, 31 August
    A public holiday marking the end of summer, often celebrated with trips and festivals.

November 2026

  • Bonfire Night (Not a Public Holiday, but Widely Celebrated) – Thursday, 5 November
    Also known as Guy Fawkes Night, celebrated with fireworks and bonfires across the UK.

  • St Andrew’s Day (Scotland Only - Bank Holiday in Scotland) – Monday, 30 November
    A celebration of Scotland’s patron saint, featuring traditional music and cultural events.

December 2026

  • Christmas Day – Friday, 25 December
    A major holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed with feasts, gift-giving, and family gatherings.

  • Boxing Day – Saturday, 26 December
    The day after Christmas, known for shopping sales, football matches, and family time.