Dec 24, 2024

UK Bank Holidays 2025: Your Complete Guide to Planning the Perfect Year

Updated: 11 hours ago

Planning ahead makes all the difference when it comes to making the most of your bank holidays. Whether you're dreaming of extended weekends away, coordinating family gatherings, or simply looking forward to some well-deserved rest, understanding the 2025 bank holiday calendar helps you maximise these precious breaks.

Why Early Planning Matters

Bank holidays often create perfect opportunities for short breaks and family gatherings, but they also tend to be peak travel periods. Trains become crowded, roads experience higher traffic, and accommodation prices typically surge. By understanding these dates in advance, you can make smarter travel arrangements and potentially save both time and money.

How many bank holidays are there in the UK in 2025

The UK is divided into four nations, each with its own set of bank holidays. England and Wales each have eight bank holidays, Scotland nine, and Northern Ireland ten.

In rare years, additional bank holidays have been declared in honor of major occasions, such as the King's coronation in 2023.

UK Bank Holidays 2025

These are the Bank Holidays to look forward to next year:

England and Wales

1 January (Wednesday): New Year’s Day
18 April (Friday): Good Friday
21 April (Monday): Easter Monday
5 May (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday
26 May (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday
25 August (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday
25 December (Thursday): Christmas Day
26 December (Friday): Boxing Day

Scotland

1 January (Wednesday): New Year’s Day
2 January (Thursday): 2nd January
18 April (Friday): Good Friday
5 May (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday
26 May (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday
4 August (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday
1 December (Monday): St Andrew’s Day (substitute)
25 December (Thursday): Christmas Day
26 December (Friday): Boxing Day

Northern Ireland

1 January (Wednesday): New Year’s Day
17 March (Monday): St Patrick’s Day (substitute)
18 April (Friday): Good Friday
21 April (Monday): Easter Monday
5 May (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday
26 May (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday
14 July (Monday): Battle of the Boyne (substitute)
25 August (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday
25 December (Thursday): Christmas Day
26 December (Friday): Boxing Day

Resources: gov.uk/bank-holidays

Disclaimer: It's advisable to check the dates on the official government website before making a decision.

outdoor scene featuring an adult and a child. The adult is pushing a tricycle that the child is riding. The backdrop includes the iconic London Eye and modern city buildings along the South Bank in London. — Freepik

Smart Travel Tips for Bank Holidays

Making the most of these breaks requires some savvy planning. Here are some practical considerations:

Advance Transport Booking

Public transport during bank holidays can be challenging, with modified schedules and increased passenger numbers. Consider booking a professional chauffeur service for important journeys, especially for airport transfers or special occasions. This ensures you start and end your break stress-free.

Traffic Consideration

Bank holiday traffic peaks can add significant time to your journey. The busiest times typically fall between 10am and 4pm on bank holiday Mondays. Planning your departure outside these hours can make a remarkable difference to your travel experience.

Looking Beyond the Obvious

While many people automatically book their travels on bank holiday weekends, consider taking your breaks during regular weekends near the bank holidays. You'll often find better availability and lower prices, while still enjoying a refreshing break.

Making Travel Arrangements

For those special bank holiday journeys when comfort and reliability matter most, Crownwood Charters offers a sophisticated solution. Our Mercedes V-Class service provides a perfect blend of luxury and practicality, accommodating families and groups with ease. Whether you're heading to the airport for a holiday or planning a special day out, professional chauffeur service eliminates the stress of bank holiday travel.

To discuss your bank holiday travel arrangements or book our services, contact our dedicated team. We're here to ensure your 2025 bank holidays are memorable for all the right reasons.

Crownwood Charters