As the calendar shifts through 2025, many people across the UK are already planning their breaks, weekend getaways, or time with family around the next bank holiday. Whether you’re an employee eager for a rest day, a parent looking to plan a family outing, or a traveler hoping for fewer crowds, knowing the exact dates and significance of upcoming bank holidays in the UK is essential.
This article explores everything you need to know about the next UK bank holiday, including its date, how it’s celebrated, practical planning tips, and recent trends in how people are spending these cherished days off.
Stay informed, get ideas for your next break, and plan ahead with this comprehensive guide to bank holidays in the UK.
What Is a Bank Holiday in the UK?
A bank holiday is a public holiday during which banks and many other businesses close for the day. The term was first introduced in the UK with the Bank Holidays Act of 1871, which established several statutory holidays for workers.
In the UK today, bank holidays are observed differently in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Certain holidays are regionally particular, while others are observed consistently. For example, Scotland only observes St. Andrew’s Day as a bank holiday.
The main types of bank holidays in the UK include:
- National holidays like Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
- Religious holidays like Good Friday and Easter Monday
- Holidays in remembrance, like Labor Day (the Early May Bank Holiday)
- Seasonal holidays like the Summer Bank Holiday
Bank holidays can be statutory (legally recognized) or discretionary, often announced by royal proclamation.
When Is the UK’s Next Bank Holiday?
As of today, Wednesday, 6 August 2025, the next UK bank holiday is:
Monday, 25 August 2025 — Summer Bank Holiday (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
This date is exclusive to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, the Summer Bank Holiday typically falls on the first Monday of August, which in 2025 was Monday, 4 August 2025.
The Summer Bank Holiday is traditionally used for end-of-summer festivals, short vacations, and family gatherings.
Upcoming Bank Holidays After August 2025
Here’s a brief overview of the remaining bank holidays in the UK after August:
- 25 December 2025 (Thursday) – Christmas Day
- 26 December 2025 (Friday) – Boxing Day
- 1 January 2026 (Thursday) – New Year’s Day
These dates are fixed and celebrated across most of the UK, with slight regional differences.
Practical Tips to Plan Around the Next Bank Holiday
Book Travel and Accommodation Early
Summer bank holidays are among the most popular times for domestic travel. Major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff see increased hotel bookings, and train tickets sell fast. If you’re planning a weekend trip, book at least 4-6 weeks in advance to secure the best rates.
Take Advantage of the Long Weekend
If you’re employed and the holiday falls on a Monday, consider taking the preceding Friday or following Tuesday off to enjoy a four-day break. This technique, often called holiday stacking, maximizes your annual leave allowance.
Expect Busy Roads and Public Transport
According to a 2024 RAC report, over 18.4 million leisure trips were expected during the August bank holiday weekend. Plan your journeys outside peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, and check for any scheduled rail maintenance on National Rail’s website.
Look Out for Local Events
The August bank holiday is famous for events like:
- Notting Hill Carnival (London) – The largest street carnival in Europe
- Manchester Pride Festival
- Edinburgh Fringe (ongoing in August)
These events are often crowded but offer a vibrant experience for locals and tourists alike.
Recent Trends in UK Bank Holiday Celebrations (2025)
Rise of “Staycations”
According to VisitBritain’s 2025 Travel Trends Report, over 56% of UK residents preferred to stay within the UK for their bank holiday breaks, citing cost, convenience, and sustainability.
Staycation hotspots include:
- Cornwall – For beaches and surfing
- Lake District – Ideal for hiking and nature
- Cotswolds – Known for charming villages and countryside escapes
Wellness and Mindfulness Retreats
Post-pandemic shifts in lifestyle have led to a boom in wellness retreats, particularly during bank holiday weekends. People are opting for yoga workshops, silent retreats, and spa experiences to recharge rather than party or travel far.
Remote Work and “Workcations”
With hybrid work becoming more prevalent in 2025, some professionals are extending their holidays by working remotely from vacation locations. Known as “workcations,” this trend has gained popularity among tech and freelance workers.
Eco-Friendly Travel
Green travel continues to grow in popularity. The 2025 Sustainable Travel Survey by Booking.com found that 71% of UK travelers intended to make more environmentally conscious choices during holidays — such as using trains instead of flights or staying in eco-certified lodges.
Real-Life Example: How Families Use the August Bank Holiday
The Patel family from Birmingham shares how they typically spend the August bank holiday.
“We usually plan a trip to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. It’s become our tradition,” says Rina Patel. “We bring games for the kids, reserve a comfortable Airbnb by the sea, and go on a total digital detox.”
For them, the three-day weekend is not just a break but a chance to bond and reflect without everyday distractions.
Regional Variations in Bank Holidays
England and Wales
- Share most of the same bank holidays
- Summer Bank Holiday falls on the last Monday of August
- Common bank holidays include Easter Monday and May Day
Scotland
- New Year’s Day and 2 January are both holidays
- St. Andrew’s Day (30 November) is a unique Scottish holiday
- The first Monday in August is designated as the Summer Bank Holiday.
Northern Ireland
- Unique holidays include St. Patrick’s Day (17 March) and Battle of the Boyne (12 July)
It’s important to verify your location-specific dates using official government resources like the UK Government Bank Holidays page.
FAQs About the Next Bank Holiday in the UK
What is the next bank holiday in the UK?
The next UK bank holiday is Monday, 25 August 2025, which is the Summer Bank Holiday observed in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Is the August bank holiday the same across all UK countries?
No. In Scotland, the Summer Bank Holiday was on Monday, 4 August 2025. England, Wales, and Northern Ireland observe it on Monday, 25 August 2025.
Are shops and banks open on the August bank holiday?
Most major supermarkets remain open, though with reduced hours. Banks and government offices are closed. Public transport may run on a Sunday schedule.
Can I get paid extra for working on a bank holiday?
That depends on your employment contract. While there is no legal requirement to pay extra for working on a bank holiday, many employers offer time and a half or double pay.
How many bank holidays are there in the UK in 2025?
In total, there are:
- 8 bank holidays in England and Wales
- 9 in Scotland
- 10 in Northern Ireland
These totals include holidays like New Year’s Day, Good Friday, and Christmas Day, among others.
Final Thoughts
Bank holidays in the UK are more than just days off; they’re woven into the cultural and social fabric of the nation. Whether you’re using the next one for travel, rest, or celebration, proper planning can turn a single day into a rejuvenating experience. As the next bank holiday on 25 August 2025 approaches, now’s the perfect time to finalize your itinerary, grab those early-bird deals, or simply plan for some well-deserved downtime.
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