As the new year begins, many people look forward to the opportunities and breaks that bank holidays bring. In the UK, bank holidays are a cherished chance to relax, spend time with loved ones, or plan a vacation. In 2025, the distribution of these holidays varies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
While England and Wales typically have eight bank holidays annually, Scotland enjoys nine, and Northern Ireland gets ten. Occasionally, special events, like the King’s Coronation in 2023, can add extra holidays.
Whether you want to maximize your annual leave or plan a long getaway, knowing these dates in advance is crucial. Here’s the complete list of UK bank holidays for 2025.
Table of Contents
Bank Holidays in England and Wales for 2025
In 2025, England and Wales have eight standard bank holidays. These include traditional events like Christmas and Easter, along with public holidays in spring and summer.
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 21 April | Monday | Easter Monday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 25 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
Bank Holidays in Scotland for 2025
Scotland has unique holidays like St. Andrew’s Day and the additional 2nd January holiday. Here’s the full list of Scotland’s bank holidays for 2025:
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 2 January | Thursday | 2nd January |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 4 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 30 November | Sunday | St. Andrew’s Day |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
Bank Holidays in Northern Ireland for 2025
Northern Ireland boasts ten bank holidays, including St. Patrick’s Day and Orangemen’s Day. Here are the dates for 2025:
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| 17 March | Monday | St. Patrick’s Day |
| 18 April | Friday | Good Friday |
| 21 April | Monday | Easter Monday |
| 5 May | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday |
| 26 May | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday |
| 14 July | Monday | Orangemen’s Day |
| 25 August | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday |
| 25 December | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 26 December | Friday | Boxing Day |
Tips to Make the Most of Bank Holidays
Planning your leave around these holidays can significantly extend your vacation time. For example, by using just nine days of annual leave during the Easter period, you can enjoy 18 consecutive days off. Similarly, aligning your holidays with long weekends can offer shorter but rejuvenating breaks.
Knowing your region’s bank holidays is essential for planning trips, family gatherings, or simply taking a well-deserved break. Whether you live in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, 2025 offers plenty of opportunities to unwind. Use these dates wisely to make the most of your year!
FAQ
What are the UK bank holidays for 2025?
The UK bank holidays for 2025 vary by region: England and Wales have eight, Scotland has nine, and Northern Ireland has ten. Key dates include Good Friday, Easter Monday, Christmas Day, and regional holidays like St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland.
How can I maximize my annual leave with bank holidays in 2025?
You can maximize your annual leave by strategically aligning it with bank holidays. For example, during Easter in 2025, taking nine days of leave can give you an 18-day break.
Which UK region has the most bank holidays in 2025?
Northern Ireland has the most bank holidays in 2025, with a total of ten days, including unique holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and Orangemen’s Day.
When is St. Andrew’s Day in Scotland in 2025?
St. Andrew’s Day in Scotland is observed on Sunday, 30 November 2025, with a substitute holiday on Monday, 1 December 2025.
Are substitute days common for UK bank holidays?
Yes, when a bank holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute day is provided, typically on the following weekday. For instance, Christmas Day and Boxing Day in 2025 have substitute days.
