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.
2025 Holiday Calendar
Scotland has St Andrew's Day (November 30th) and 2nd January. Northern Ireland has St Patrick's Day (March 17th) and Battle of the Boyne (July 12th).
United Kingdom Holidays
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.
8 bank holidays in England and Wales, 9 in Scotland, and 10 in Northern Ireland. Common holidays include Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and the Summer Bank Holiday.
Scotland has St Andrew's Day (November 30th) and 2nd January. Northern Ireland has St Patrick's Day (March 17th) and Battle of the Boyne (July 12th).
If a bank holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute day (usually the following Monday) is designated as the bank holiday. This ensures workers do not lose their entitlement.
United Kingdom
Christmas Day
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 Monday in August (England, Wales, Northern Ireland). First Monday in August in Scotland. A popular time for family holidays.
Boxing Day
December 26th. Traditionally a day for giving to the poor. If it falls on a weekend, a substitute day is given.
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Impact on Payroll & Leave
Bank holidays in the UK affect payroll primarily through substitute day provisions and contractual entitlements rather than statutory premium pay.
Learn more about United KingdomNo statutory premium pay for bank holiday work. Premium rates are contractual.
Statutory rest breaks and daily/weekly rest periods must be maintained.
Bank holidays are typically included within the 28-day annual leave entitlement.
Different bank holiday calendars for England/Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
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.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official government sources and legal counsel for compliance matters.