Bank holidays are an important part of the UK calendar, offering much-needed breaks from work and time to spend with family, travel, or simply unwind. With schedules becoming increasingly busy, it’s essential to know when these public holidays fall. This guide explores “How many bank holidays in 2025″ across various UK regions, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. We’ll also delve into working days, NHS considerations, and important dates like May and August bank holidays. Whether you’re planning a vacation, managing a team, or working in public services, this article helps you prepare better.
What are the bank holidays in 2025 UK?
Bank holidays in 2025 UK vary by region. While England and Wales will observe 8 public holidays, Scotland will enjoy 9, and Northern Ireland will observe 10. These differences arise from regional traditions and statutory provisions.
It is crucial to understand the whole list of UK bank holidays for 2025 in order to organise personal events, work schedules, and travel. Regardless of where you live—in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland—being aware of your vacation days may help you make the most of your free time and productivity.
How many bank holidays in 2025 in England and Wales?
In 2025, England and Wales will observe eight statutory bank holidays:
| Date | Holiday Name |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Friday, 18 April | Good Friday |
| Monday, 21 April | Easter Monday |
| Monday, 5 May | Early May Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 26 May | Spring Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 25 August | Summer Bank Holiday |
| Thursday, 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Friday, 26 December | Boxing Day |
Both England and Wales mark these holidays in the same way.
How many bank holidays in 2025 in Scotland?
Scotland has 9 bank holidays in 2025, including two holidays not observed in England and Wales:
| Date | Holiday Name |
| Wednesday, 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| Thursday, 2 January | Second Day of the New Year |
| Friday, 18 April | Good Friday |
| Monday, 5 May | Early May Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 26 May | Spring Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 4 August | Summer Bank Holiday (first Monday in August) |
| Monday, 1 December | St. Andrew’s Day (substitute) |
| Thursday, 25 December | Christmas Day |
| Friday, 26 December | Boxing Day |
Scotland’s early January and December bank holidays are notable distinctions.
How many bank holidays are there in 2025 in the UK, NHS?
For NHS staff, the standard bank holiday entitlement follows regional rules:
| Region | NHS Bank Holidays | Notes |
| England & Wales | 8 | NHS staff may receive enhanced pay/leave |
| Scotland | 9 | Varies by local NHS board |
| Northern Ireland | 10 | Includes St. Patrick’s and Battle of the Boyne |
Some NHS trusts offer time off in lieu or additional pay for working bank holidays.
How many working days in 2025 in the UK including bank holidays?
2025 is not a leap year, so it has 365 days. Subtracting weekends and bank holidays:
- Total weekdays: 261
- Minus bank holidays (e.g. 8 for England): 253 working days
| Region | Total Days | Weekends | Bank Holidays | Working Days |
| England & Wales | 365 | 104 | 8 | 253 |
| Scotland | 365 | 104 | 9 | 252 |
| Northern Ireland | 365 | 104 | 10 | 251 |
Why does Scotland have more bank holidays than England in 2025?
Scotland’s legal holidays differ due to historical and cultural distinctions. Scots celebrate:
- 2 January, marking extended New Year festivities
- When it falls on a weekend, St. Andrew’s Day (30 November) is observed with an alternate day off.
“Public holidays reflect a region’s heritage. Scotland’s January 2nd and St. Andrew’s Day highlight that heritage,” says Dr. Fiona MacDonald, historian at Edinburgh University.
What are the differences in bank holidays across the UK?
| Region | Bank Holidays in 2025 | Unique Holidays |
| England & Wales | 8 | Easter Monday, Boxing Day |
| Scotland | 9 | 2 January, St. Andrew’s Day |
| Northern Ireland | 10 | St. Patrick’s Day, Battle of the Boyne |
Each country within the UK observes both shared and region-specific holidays. Employers and residents should verify the dates applicable in their region.
Are Easter and Christmas bank holidays the same across the UK?
Yes, the UK observes the Easter and Christmas holidays, albeit there are notable differences:
- Scotland does not observe Easter Monday as a bank holiday, while England, Wales, and Northern Ireland do.
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day are UK-wide holidays, although Scotland does not officially recognize Easter Monday.
May bank holiday 2025
There are two May bank holidays in 2025:
| Date | Name |
| Monday, 5 May | Early May Bank Holiday |
| Monday, 26 May | Spring Bank Holiday |
These offer chances for organising holidays and lengthy vacations.
August bank holiday 2025
The August bank holiday varies by region:
| Region | Date | Name |
| England & Wales | Monday, 25 August | Summer Bank Holiday |
| Scotland | Monday, 4 August | Summer Bank Holiday |
How do substitute days affect UK bank holidays in 2025?
If a bank holiday falls on a weekend, the following weekday becomes a substitute day off. In 2025:
- St. Andrew’s Day (30 November, Sunday) will be observed on Monday, 1 December in Scotland.
This rule ensures employees receive their full entitlement of paid public holidays.
Why should you plan around UK bank holidays in 2025?
Strategically planning holidays and time off around bank holidays boosts personal well-being and work efficiency:
- Plan vacations during extended weekends
- Avoid business meetings on public holidays
- Anticipate closures in public services and offices
Conclusion
England and Wales will have 8 bank holidays in 2025, followed by Scotland with 9 and Northern Ireland with 10. Each reflects local culture and history, from Scotland’s January 2nd to Northern Ireland’s Battle of the Boyne. Better planning for work and play is made possible by an understanding of these distinctions. Whether you’re scheduling a trip or organizing staff rotas, being bank holiday-savvy in 2025 gives you a real edge.
“Time off is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Plan it well,” advises HR expert Lucy Kendall.
FAQs
How many bank holidays are there in the UK in 2025?
There are 8 in England & Wales, 9 in Scotland, and 10 in Northern Ireland.
Is Easter Monday a bank holiday in Scotland in 2025?
In Scotland, Easter Monday is not a legally recognised bank holiday.
Will there be substitute days in 2025?
Yes, for holidays like St. Andrew’s Day that fall on a weekend.
Which UK nation has the most bank holidays in 2025?
Northern Ireland, with 10 bank holidays.
Are UK bank holidays paid days off?
Most employees are entitled to paid leave, but check individual contracts or employer policies.
I’m Laura Wilson, a passionate blogger and content creator with a deep interest in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. I’ve had the opportunity to write for several premium blogs, sharing insights & practical advice for individuals & small businesses. I’m the founder and publisher of ukbusinessmag.co.uk, where I focus on creating valuable, easy-to-understand content to help UK startups & SMEs grow.
