UK Bank Holidays 2026: Boxing Day Moves, 2027 Brings Extra Day Off

The UK government has officially confirmed a shake-up to the national bank holiday calendar for 2026, with further adjustments scheduled for the following year. The changes will affect how workers plan their festive leave and require businesses to adapt their holiday staffing and operations.

What's Changing in 2026?

While most of the familiar bank holiday dates will remain unchanged in 2026, a key shift will occur at the end of the year. This is because Boxing Day falls on a Saturday in 2026. According to the official government website, this means the traditional Boxing Day bank holiday will not be observed on December 26th itself.

Instead, a substitute bank holiday will be granted on Monday, December 28. This ensures that employees across the UK do not lose their entitled paid day off during the festive period. Christmas Day in 2026 will be on a Friday, making for a long weekend with the substitute day on the following Monday.

A Look Ahead to a Generous 2027

The adjustments become even more significant in 2027, offering households an extended festive break. In that year, Christmas Day lands on a Saturday and Boxing Day on a Sunday. Consequently, two substitute bank holidays will be created.

Workers will receive Monday, December 27, and Tuesday, December 28, as official days off. This creates a potential four-day weekend for many, allowing extra time for family celebrations, travel, or recovery after Christmas Day.

Planning and Implications

These confirmed changes mean individuals and families will need to think carefully about booking annual leave to maximise their time off, particularly for those hoping to take extended winter trips. For businesses, especially in retail, hospitality, and service sectors, the altered dates are crucial for planning holiday opening hours, staffing rotas, and supply chain logistics.

The core bank holiday schedule for the next two years is now set, providing clarity for long-term planners. Below are the full confirmed lists for 2026 and 2027.