What Are Bank Holidays?
Bank holidays are the UK's public holidays — days when most offices and some businesses close. They are called "bank holidays" because banks traditionally closed on these days. For visitors, bank holidays affect shop opening hours, transport schedules, and attraction availability.
UK Bank Holidays
England and Wales share the same bank holidays. Scotland and Northern Ireland have some additional or different dates.
- New Year's Day: 1 January
- Good Friday: March or April (varies each year)
- Easter Monday: March or April (varies each year)
- Early May Bank Holiday: First Monday of May
- Spring Bank Holiday: Last Monday of May
- Summer Bank Holiday: Last Monday of August
- Christmas Day: 25 December
- Boxing Day: 26 December
What Is Open on Bank Holidays?
- Tourist attractions: Most major attractions, museums, and galleries remain open — some may have reduced hours
- Restaurants and pubs: Generally open, often with special menus or events
- Shops: Many open but with reduced hours (typically 10am-4pm for large stores)
- Supermarkets: Open but with shorter hours
What May Be Closed
- Banks and post offices
- Government offices
- Some smaller independent shops
- GP surgeries (doctors' offices)
Transport on Bank Holidays
Public transport usually runs on a reduced Sunday schedule on bank holidays. This means:
- Fewer buses and trains
- Later start times and earlier finish times
- Possible engineering works on rail lines (check before you travel)
Always check Transport for London and National Rail for bank holiday timetables.
Travelling During Bank Holiday Weekends
Bank holiday weekends are popular for short breaks, meaning:
- Roads can be significantly busier, especially on Friday evenings and Monday afternoons
- Hotels and accommodation book up faster — reserve early
- Popular attractions may have longer queues
Plan Around the Calendar
Bank holidays can be a wonderful time to visit the UK, with many special events and a festive atmosphere. Just plan your transport and bookings in advance, and make sure your UK ETA is sorted well before the holiday rush.
