Get your diaries ready and start planning your time off! The full slate of UK bank holidays for 2025 has been confirmed, offering nine glorious long weekends for millions across England and Wales.
While the number of public holidays remains the same as in 2024, the specific dates have, of course, shifted. For workers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, the picture is even brighter, with each nation enjoying additional days off throughout the year.
Your 2025 Bank Holiday Calendar: England & Wales
Mark these nine key dates in your calendar to make the most of your annual leave in 2025:
- 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
Extra Days Off: Scotland's 2025 Bank Holidays
Scottish residents benefit from two additional public holidays, making for a total of 11 days off. As well as most of the dates above, Scotland also celebrates:
- Thursday, 2 January - New Year Holiday (a bonus day after New Year's Day)
- Monday, 4 August - Summer Bank Holiday (different from England and Wales)
It's important to note that Scotland substitutes the Summer Bank Holiday in August for the one at the end of May enjoyed in England and Wales.
Northern Ireland's 2025 Line-Up
Northern Ireland also enjoys an extra day, with St Patrick's Day providing a welcome break in March. Their full list of 10 bank holidays includes:
- Monday, 17 March - St Patrick’s Day
- Monday, 14 July - Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day)
Maximise Your Annual Leave in 2025
A bit of strategic planning can turn these bank holidays into extended breaks. For example, the Late Summer Bank Holiday on Monday, 25 August, creates a perfect three-day weekend. By booking just four days of annual leave from Tuesday 26th to Friday 29th August, you can enjoy a magnificent nine-day break, returning to work on Monday 1st September.
Remember, entitlement to paid time off on these dates depends on your employment contract. While many enjoy these days off, some sectors like retail and hospitality often remain open, with employees sometimes receiving alternative leave or enhanced pay.
Now you have the dates, it's time to start planning your adventures, staycations, or well-deserved rest and relaxation for the year ahead!
