How Public Holidays Work in United Kingdom
Public holidays (bank holidays) in the UK are defined by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, with employment rights governed by the Working Time Regulations 1998. The number of bank holidays varies by region, with England and Wales having 8 days, Scotland 9 days, and Northern Ireland 10 days.
United Kingdom Holidays
2025 Holiday Calendar
| Date | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31 | New Year's Day | National |
| Apr 2 | Good Friday | National |
| May 3 | Early May Bank Holiday | National |
| May 24 | Spring Bank Holiday | National |
| Dec 24 | Christmas Day | National |
| Dec 25 | Boxing Day | National |
At a Glance: Common Holidays
Christmas Day
DEC 25
December 25th. One of the most important holidays in the UK. If it falls on a weekend, a substitute day is given.
Summer Bank Holiday
LAST MON IN AUG
Last Monday in August (England, Wales, Northern Ireland). First Monday in August in Scotland. A popular time for family holidays.
Boxing Day
DEC 26
December 26th. Traditionally a day for giving to the poor. If it falls on a weekend, a substitute day is given.
Impact on Payroll & Leave
Bank holidays in the UK affect payroll primarily through substitute day provisions and contractual entitlements rather than statutory premium pay.
Are employees entitled to time off for bank holidays?
There is no automatic right to time off on bank holidays. It depends on the employment contract. The 28-day annual leave entitlement usually includes bank holidays.
What happens if a bank holiday falls on a weekend?
A substitute day (usually the following Monday or Tuesday) is designated as the bank holiday to ensure workers don't lose their entitlement.
Can unused annual leave be paid out on termination?
Yes. When employment ends, workers must be paid for any accrued but untaken statutory holiday. This is a legal requirement under the Working Time Regulations.