Bank holidays in England are eagerly awaited public holidays that provide a welcome respite from the daily grind. They offer opportunities to relax, recharge, and engage in leisure activities. In 2025, England will observe eight bank holidays, each with its own unique significance and traditions. Whether you plan on spending these days exploring the countryside, gathering with loved ones, or simply taking a well-deserved break, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The first bank holiday of 2025 falls on New Year’s Day, January 1st. This day marks the start of a new year and is often celebrated with fireworks, parties, and resolutions. Next comes Good Friday, April 18th, a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is traditionally observed with solemn religious services and the consumption of hot cross buns. Easter Monday, April 21st, follows Easter Sunday and provides an additional day of rest and relaxation.
May Day, May 1st, is a day that celebrates the arrival of spring and the return of warmer weather. It is often marked with parades, dancing, and the crowning of a May Queen. The Spring Bank Holiday, May 26th, is a welcome break in the middle of May. It provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, attend local events, or simply spend time with family and friends. The Summer Bank Holiday, August 25th, is the last bank holiday of the summer and is often spent at the beach, attending festivals, or participating in outdoor activities. Finally, the Christmas Day bank holiday, December 25th, is a day to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and is traditionally spent with family, feasting, and gift-giving. Boxing Day, December 26th, is a day to relax and recover from the festivities of Christmas Day and is often spent watching sports, playing games, or visiting friends.
Key Bank Holidays in England 2025
New Year’s Day (Monday, January 1, 2025)
New Year’s Day is the first day of the Gregorian calendar, which is the most widely used civil calendar in the world. In England, New Year’s Day is a bank holiday, which means that most businesses and government offices are closed. People typically celebrate New Year’s Day by gathering with family and friends, watching fireworks, and attending parties.
The history of New Year’s Day as a holiday dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans celebrated the new year on January 1st, and they believed that the god Janus, who was the god of beginnings and endings, would bring good luck in the new year. Over time, the tradition of celebrating New Year’s Day spread throughout Europe and eventually to England.
Today, New Year’s Day is a time for reflection and celebration. People often make resolutions for the new year, and they look forward to the possibilities that the new year will bring.
Good Friday (Friday, March 28, 2025)
Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of mourning and reflection for Christians around the world.
Good Friday is a bank holiday in England, which means that most businesses and government offices are closed. People typically spend Good Friday by attending church services, reading the Bible, and praying.
Easter Monday (Monday, March 31, 2025)
Easter Monday is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a day of joy and celebration for Christians around the world.
Easter Monday is a bank holiday in England, which means that most businesses and government offices are closed. People typically spend Easter Monday by attending church services, eating special foods, and playing games.
Early May Bank Holiday (Monday, May 5, 2025)
The Early May Bank Holiday is a bank holiday in England that is celebrated on the first Monday in May. It is a day to celebrate the arrival of spring and the changing of the seasons.
People typically spend the Early May Bank Holiday by going for picnics, attending outdoor events, and enjoying the warmer weather.
Spring Bank Holiday (Monday, May 26, 2025)
The Spring Bank Holiday is a bank holiday in England that is celebrated on the last Monday in May. It is a day to celebrate the end of spring and the beginning of summer.
People typically spend the Spring Bank Holiday by going for walks, attending festivals, and enjoying the outdoors.
Summer Bank Holiday (Monday, August 25, 2025)
The Summer Bank Holiday is a bank holiday in England that is celebrated on the last Monday in August. It is a day to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.
People typically spend the Summer Bank Holiday by going to the beach, attending sporting events, and enjoying the outdoors.
Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25, 2025)
Christmas Day is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a day of joy and celebration for Christians around the world.
Christmas Day is a bank holiday in England, which means that most businesses and government offices are closed. People typically spend Christmas Day by attending church services, exchanging gifts, and eating special foods
Boxing Day (Friday, December 26, 2025)
Boxing Day is a bank holiday in England that is celebrated on the day after Christmas Day. It is a day for relaxation and spending time with family and friends.
People typically spend Boxing Day by going for walks, watching movies, and playing games.
| Date | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2025 | New Year’s Day |
| March 28, 2025 | Good Friday |
| March 31, 2025 | Easter Monday |
| May 5, 2025 | Early May Bank Holiday |
| May 26, 2025 | Spring Bank Holiday |
| August 25, 2025 | Summer Bank Holiday |
| December 25, 2025 | Christmas Day |
| December 26, 2025 | Boxing Day |
Public Holidays to Plan Your Time Off
Bank Holidays in England 2025
The following table lists the bank holidays in England in 2025:
| Date | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|
| Monday, January 1 | New Year’s Day |
| Friday, April 18 | Good Friday |
| Monday, April 21 | Easter Monday |
| Monday, May 5 | Early May Bank Holiday |
| Monday, August 25 | Summer Bank Holiday |
| Monday, December 29 | Christmas Day (substitute day) |
| Tuesday, December 30 | Boxing Day (substitute day) |
Extended Bank Holiday Weekend Breaks
The bank holidays in 2025 fall on a variety of days of the week, providing opportunities for extended weekend breaks. For example, the Easter break in 2025 will be four days long, from Friday, April 18 to Monday, April 21. The May Day break will be three days long, from Saturday, May 3 to Monday, May 5. And the August Bank Holiday will be three days long, from Saturday, August 23 to Monday, August 25.
These extended weekends are a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some quality time with family and friends. There are many different ways to enjoy a bank holiday weekend, from visiting a new city to going on a hike to simply relaxing at home.
Here are some ideas for things to do on a bank holiday weekend:
* Visit a new city
* Go on a hike
* Go to the beach
* Have a picnic
* Visit a museum
* See a movie
* Go shopping
* Relax at home
Essential Dates for Business and Individuals
Bank Holidays in 2025
Bank holidays are days when banks and other financial institutions are closed for business. In England, bank holidays are set by law and vary from year to year. The following are the bank holidays in England in 2025:
| Date | Name |
|---|---|
| Friday, 17 January | New Year’s Day |
| Monday, 7 April | Good Friday |
| Monday, 14 April | Easter Monday |
| Monday, 5 May | Early May Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 26 May | Spring Bank Holiday |
| Tuesday, 27 May | Summer Bank Holiday |
| Saturday, 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Sunday, 26 December | Boxing Day |
Extended Holidays for Business and Individuals
Some bank holidays are also considered extended holidays, meaning that schools and other businesses may also be closed. The following are the extended holidays in England in 2025:
| Date | Name |
|---|---|
| Friday, 17 January | New Year’s Day |
| Friday, 7 April | Good Friday |
| Tuesday, 27 May | Summer Bank Holiday |
| Saturday, 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Sunday, 26 December | Boxing Day |
Impact on Business and Individuals
Bank holidays can have a significant impact on both businesses and individuals. Businesses may see a decrease in productivity and sales on bank holidays, while individuals may use the extra time off to travel or spend time with family and friends. It is important for businesses to plan ahead for bank holidays and to make arrangements for closing or reducing their operations on these days. Individuals should also be aware of the bank holiday schedule and plan their activities accordingly.
Bank Holiday Regulations and Entitlements
In England, bank holidays are statutory holidays that entitle employees to a day off work with pay. These holidays are set by law and are observed throughout the country.
Entitlements
Employees who work on a bank holiday are entitled to either a paid day off in lieu or an additional day’s pay.
If an employee works only part of a bank holiday, they are entitled to a proportion of a day’s pay.
Employees who are required to work on a bank holiday are entitled to an additional 1.5 times their usual hourly rate of pay.
| Bank Holiday | Date in 2025 |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January |
| Good Friday | 18 April |
| Easter Monday | 21 April |
| May Day | 5 May |
| Spring Bank Holiday | 25 May |
| Summer Bank Holiday | 25 August |
| Christmas Day | 25 December |
| Boxing Day | 26 December |
Extended Weekends
Bank holidays in England provide ample opportunities for extended weekends, allowing you to enjoy some downtime and plan short getaways. These public holidays fall on specific days throughout the year, offering long weekends that you can use to relax, travel, or simply catch up on much-needed rest.
Event-Themed Holidays
Certain bank holidays in England are associated with specific events or celebrations, providing a unique opportunity to participate in festivities and immerse yourself in the local culture. These event-themed holidays include:
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Marking the start of a new year, New Year’s Day offers a chance for resolutions, reflection, and a fresh start.
Easter Monday (Date varies, April)
Commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Easter Monday is a Christian holiday that typically involves egg hunts, family gatherings, and springtime festivities.
May Day (May 1)
Traditionally associated with the arrival of spring, May Day is a celebration of fertility, new beginnings, and the coming of warmer weather.
Spring Bank Holiday (End of May)
A more recent addition to the bank holiday calendar, Spring Bank Holiday provides an extended weekend opportunity to celebrate the arrival of summer and enjoy outdoor activities.
Late Summer Bank Holiday (End of August)
Marking the unofficial end of summer, Late Summer Bank Holiday offers a chance to savor the last days of warm weather and participate in harvest festivals or other seasonal events.
Christmas Day (December 25) and Boxing Day (December 26)
The most important Christian holidays, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are filled with festive activities, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts.
Bank Holiday Closure Impact on Services
Bank holidays in England are official non-working days designated by the government. During these holidays, many businesses and services may be closed or operate on reduced hours.
Public Transport
Public transport services, such as buses, trains, and subways, may operate on reduced schedules or be closed entirely on bank holidays. It’s best to check with the relevant transport provider for specific information.
Retail and Shopping
Many retail stores, shopping centers, and supermarkets may be closed or have shorter opening hours on bank holidays. However, some essential services, such as convenience stores and pharmacies, may remain open.
Financial Institutions
Banks, building societies, and other financial institutions are typically closed on bank holidays. This includes ATMs and online banking services, which may be unavailable during the holiday period.
Government Offices
Government offices, including local councils and public services, are typically closed on bank holidays. Essential services, such as emergency services and hospitals, will remain operational.
Healthcare
NHS services, such as hospitals and GP surgeries, may operate on reduced hours or provide emergency services only on bank holidays. It’s best to check with the local NHS website for specific information.
Other Services
Other services, such as schools, libraries, and museums, may also be closed or have reduced hours on bank holidays. It’s recommended to check with the relevant establishment for specific information.
Bank Holiday Closure Impact on Businesses
Bank holidays can have a significant impact on businesses. Some businesses may choose to close entirely, while others may operate on reduced hours or with a skeleton staff. This can lead to reduced productivity, lost revenue, and increased operating costs. However, businesses may also experience increased demand for their products or services from those who have the day off.
For example, restaurants and pubs may see an increase in customers on bank holidays, while manufacturing and construction companies may experience reduced production due to closures.
| Industry | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Retail | Reduced sales, lost revenue |
| Hospitality | Increased demand, increased revenue |
| Manufacturing | Reduced production, lost revenue |
| Construction | Reduced progress, potential delays |
Traditional and Modern Meanings of Bank Holidays
Bank holidays have been a part of English life for centuries, and their traditional and modern meanings have evolved over time.
Traditional Meanings
Traditionally, bank holidays were days set aside for religious observances or national celebrations. The first bank holiday in England was Easter Monday, which was established in 1100. Other traditional bank holidays include Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Good Friday.
Modern Meanings
In the modern era, bank holidays have taken on a more secular meaning. They are now seen as days of rest and recreation, and many people use them to travel or spend time with family and friends.
The Number 8
The number 8 has a special significance in the history of bank holidays in England. The Bank Holidays Act of 1871 established eight bank holidays per year, and this number has remained unchanged ever since.
The eight bank holidays in England are:
| New Year’s Day | Good Friday | Easter Monday | May Day | Spring Bank Holiday | August Bank Holiday | Christmas Day | Boxing Day |
These bank holidays are spread out throughout the year, ensuring that there is at least one bank holiday in every month except for February.
The Evolution of Bank Holidays Over Time
Bank holidays have played a significant role in British culture for centuries, providing a much-needed respite from the daily grind and allowing people to engage in leisure activities, family gatherings, and other festive pursuits. The evolution of bank holidays in England is a fascinating journey that reflects changing social and economic norms.
The Early Antecedents
The origins of bank holidays can be traced back to the medieval era, when religious festivals were often accompanied by a suspension of work. The Feast of St. George, celebrated on April 23rd, was one of the earliest such holidays, and it continued to be observed even after the Reformation.
The Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution brought about profound changes in the way people lived and worked. As cities grew and industries expanded, the need for standardized days of rest became increasingly apparent. In 1834, the Bank Holidays Act established a list of four official bank holidays in England: Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Whit Monday.
The 20th Century
The 20th century saw a gradual expansion of the bank holiday calendar. In 1900, August Bank Holiday was introduced, providing a much-needed respite during the summer months. In 1971, May Day was added as a national holiday, followed by Spring Bank Holiday in 1978.
The 1980s and Beyond
The 1980s witnessed a significant shift in the way bank holidays were observed. The Banking and Financial Dealings Act of 1991 allowed banks to choose whether or not to close on bank holidays, and many institutions opted to remain open.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to restore the traditional nature of bank holidays. In 2017, the government announced that all bank holidays would be mandatory for banks, reversing the trend towards commercialization.
| Year | Bank Holiday |
|---|---|
| 1834 | Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Whit Monday |
| 1900 | August Bank Holiday |
| 1971 | May Day |
| 1978 | Spring Bank Holiday |
Trends in Bank Holiday Observances
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and globalized, we are also seeing changes in the way that people celebrate holidays. This is especially true for bank holidays, which are typically observed on different days in different countries. In the United Kingdom, bank holidays are set by law and are usually determined by the government. However, there are some trends that are emerging that could lead to changes in the way that bank holidays are observed in the future.
Future Trends in Bank Holiday Observances
There are a number of factors that could contribute to changes in the way that bank holidays are observed in the UK in the future. These include:
- The changing nature of work: As the world becomes increasingly globalized, people are increasingly likely to work on different schedules and in different countries. This could lead to a demand for more flexible bank holiday arrangements.
- The rise of digital technology: Digital technology is making it easier for people to work and communicate from anywhere in the world. This could lead to a decrease in the importance of traditional bank holidays, which are often based on the need for people to take a day off to travel or visit family.
- Changing demographics: The UK population is becoming increasingly diverse, and this is also leading to changes in the way that people celebrate holidays. For example, the growing Muslim population in the UK has led to an increase in the demand for bank holidays that coincide with Muslim holidays.
It is not yet clear how these factors will affect the way that bank holidays are observed in the UK. However, it is clear that there are a number of trends that are emerging that could lead to changes in the future.
| Year | Day |
|---|---|
| 2025 | New Year’s Day |
| 2025 | Good Friday |
| 2025 | Easter Monday |
| 2025 | Early May bank holiday |
| 2025 | Spring bank holiday |
| 2025 | August bank holiday |
| 2025 | Christmas Day |
| 2025 | Boxing Day |
Bank Holidays England 2025
Bank holidays are a great opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends. In England, there are eight bank holidays in 2025. These are:
- New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January
- Good Friday – Friday 18 April
- Easter Monday – Monday 21 April
- May Day – Monday 5 May
- Spring Bank Holiday – Monday 26 May
- Summer Bank Holiday – Monday 25 August
- Christmas Day – Thursday 25 December
- Boxing Day – Friday 26 December
Bank holidays are usually a day off work, so it’s a great opportunity to catch up on sleep, do some chores, or simply relax. Many people also take advantage of bank holidays to go on short trips or spend time with family and friends.
People Also Ask About Bank Holidays England 2025
When is the next bank holiday in England?
The next bank holiday in England is New Year’s Day, on Thursday 1 January 2025.
How many bank holidays are there in England in 2025?
There are eight bank holidays in England in 2025.
What are the bank holidays in England in 2025?
The bank holidays in England in 2025 are:
- New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January
- Good Friday – Friday 18 April
- Easter Monday – Monday 21 April
- May Day – Monday 5 May
- Spring Bank Holiday – Monday 26 May
- Summer Bank Holiday – Monday 25 August
- Christmas Day – Thursday 25 December
- Boxing Day – Friday 26 December
