Ideas For Bank Holidays And School Breaks
Easter
A four-day weekend gives you enough time for a European city break, a countryside hotel stay, or a family attraction break without needing a full week away.
May Bank Holidays
May works well for coastal towns, spa stays, walking breaks and short trips by rail. The Spring Bank Holiday often overlaps with school half term, so family rooms can become limited.
Scotland’s World Cup Bank Holiday
The June bank holiday creates an extra opportunity for a Scottish city break, Highlands escape or longer summer trip when combined with annual leave.
Summer Bank Holidays
August is suited to beach breaks, festivals, countryside holidays and late-summer city stays. Expect higher demand around popular coastal destinations.
Christmas And New Year
Festive hotel stays, winter spa breaks and Christmas market trips can work well, but check seasonal opening hours, transport and dining arrangements before booking.
Before Booking
- Use the correct national bank holiday calendar for your destination.
- Check the school’s exact term dates when travelling with children.
- Book popular rail services, flights and family rooms early.
- Allow extra journey time on peak travel days.
- Check bank holiday opening hours for attractions and restaurants.
- Read cancellation conditions before choosing a non-refundable stay.
FAQs
- When are the England and Wales bank holidays in 2026?
They fall on 1 January, 3 April, 6 April, 4 May, 25 May, 31 August, 25 December and 28 December.
- When are the Scotland bank holidays in 2026?
Scotland has bank holidays on 1 January, 2 January, 3 April, 4 May, 25 May, 15 June, 3 August, 30 November, 25 December and 28 December.
- What is a substitute bank holiday?
When a bank holiday falls on a weekend, a weekday is normally designated as the substitute holiday. In 2026, Monday 28 December replaces Boxing Day.
- Are school holiday dates the same throughout the UK?
No. Dates vary by council, academy and individual school, so always check the relevant school calendar.
- How can I maximise annual leave in 2026?
Booking four weekdays around Easter or one of the Monday bank holidays can create a nine or ten-day break, depending on your normal working pattern.
- When should I book a bank holiday trip?
Book early for Easter, May, August and Christmas, particularly if you need family rooms, popular rail services or specific departure airports.