UK (Public) Bank Holidays 2025: Plan Your Year with National and Regional Dates
Planning a trip, a long weekend, or just looking for an excuse to relax? Knowing the UK bank holidays in 2025 can help you make the most of your time. From national holidays to regional observances in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, this comprehensive guide outlines every key date you need to know to plan ahead.
Whether you want to explore the UK’s rich culture, spend time with family, or simply unwind, these public holidays offer the perfect opportunity. Below, you'll find a full breakdown of the confirmed UK bank holidays in 2025 by region.
Bank Holidays 2025 in England & Wales
There are 8 official bank holidays in 2025. England and Wales share the same bank holiday schedule. In 2025, these are the official public holidays:
1 January 2025 (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day
18 April 2025 (Friday) – Good Friday
21 April 2025 (Monday) – Easter Monday
5 May 2025 (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
26 May 2025 (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
25 August 2025 (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
25 December 2025 (Thursday) – Christmas Day
26 December 2025 (Friday) – Boxing Day
These dates provide perfect opportunities to take a city break, enjoy time with friends and family, or even explore countryside retreats.
Bank Holidays 2025 in Scotland
Scotland has a slightly different set of bank holidays, reflecting its own national observances:
1 January 2025 (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day
2 January 2025 (Thursday) – 2nd January Holiday
18 April 2025 (Friday) – Good Friday
5 May 2025 (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
26 May 2025 (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
4 August 2025 (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
1 December 2025 (Monday) – St Andrew’s Day (Substitute Day)
25 December 2025 (Thursday) – Christmas Day
26 December 2025 (Friday) – Boxing Day
Scotland's bank holidays allow for added flexibility, especially with the January 2nd and St Andrew’s Day observances.
Bank Holidays 2025 in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland observes unique holidays reflecting its cultural and religious heritage:
1 January 2025 (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day
17 March 2025 (Monday) – St Patrick’s Day
18 April 2025 (Friday) – Good Friday
21 April 2025 (Monday) – Easter Monday
5 May 2025 (Monday) – Early May Bank Holiday
26 May 2025 (Monday) – Spring Bank Holiday
14 July 2025 (Monday) – Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day, substitute day)
25 August 2025 (Monday) – Summer Bank Holiday
25 December 2025 (Thursday) – Christmas Day
26 December 2025 (Friday) – Boxing Day
With 10 public holidays, Northern Ireland offers more official days off than other parts of the UK.
How to Make the Most of UK Bank Holidays in 2025
Bank holidays are ideal for short breaks, staycations, or family fun. Whether you’re:
Booking a getaway to the countryside or coast
Visiting museums, galleries, or historic landmarks
Trying new restaurants, markets, and festivals
Spending quality time at home with loved ones
…these holidays offer a chance to pause and enjoy life. Plan ahead to maximise your days off and beat the rush.
Save Money on Family Days Out
Make your bank holidays even better with smart planning:
Look for family attraction discounts
Use railcards or travel deals
Pack your own food to avoid costly meals
Check local events for free entertainment
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Bank Holidays
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For England & Wales, there are 8 official bank holidays in 2025.
Scotland observes 9 bank holidays.
Northern Ireland has 10 bank holidays in 2025
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No. Each part of the UK has its own set of public holidays. England and Wales share the same dates, but Scotland and Northern Ireland have distinct observances unique to their cultural and national heritage.
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Not everything, but many services may be reduced. Banks and government offices typically close. Supermarkets, restaurants, and some attractions often stay open but may have shorter hours.
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Most bank holidays fall on a Monday, creating a convenient three-day weekend. Some holidays tied to religious or historical dates may fall midweek, and others are observed with a substitute day if they fall on a weekend.
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Not all employees are automatically entitled to paid leave on bank holidays. Check your employment contract or speak with your HR department to confirm if bank holidays are included in your annual leave.
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Bank holidays can be busy travel periods. Booking travel and accommodation well in advance is recommended, especially around Easter, late May, and August. Travelling early in the morning or midweek can help avoid peak congestion.
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