UK bank holidays in 2026 and 2027 will see changes, including Boxing Day shifts and added substitute days. Plan ahead with the updated holiday schedule.


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πŸ“… Upcoming UK Bank Holiday Changes in 2026 and 2027

The UK is set to experience adjustments in its bank holiday schedule for 2026 and 2027, with notable changes to Boxing Day and the introduction of substitute days.​

πŸŽ„ Boxing Day Adjustments

  • 2026: Boxing Day falls on Saturday, December 26. The substitute bank holiday will be observed on Monday, December 28.​

  • 2027: Boxing Day lands on Sunday, December 26. The substitute bank holiday will be on Tuesday, December 28.

πŸ“† Additional Substitute Days

When traditional bank holidays fall on weekends, the UK designates substitute days to ensure workers receive their entitled days off.​

  • 2026: With Christmas Day on Friday, December 25, and Boxing Day on Saturday, December 26, the substitute day for Boxing Day is Monday, December 28.​

  • 2027: Christmas Day falls on Saturday, December 25, and Boxing Day on Sunday, December 26. The substitute days will be Monday, December 27 for Christmas Day and Tuesday, December 28 for Boxing Day.​

πŸ—“οΈ Full List of Bank Holidays

England and Wales:

  • 2026:

    • January 1 (Thursday): New Year's Day

    • April 3 (Friday): Good Friday

    • April 6 (Monday): Easter Monday

    • May 4 (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday

    • May 25 (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday

    • August 31 (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday

    • December 25 (Friday): Christmas Day

    • December 28 (Monday): Boxing Day (substitute day)​

  • 2027:

    • January 1 (Friday): New Year's Day

    • March 26 (Friday): Good Friday

    • March 29 (Monday): Easter Monday

    • May 3 (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday

    • May 31 (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday

    • August 30 (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday

    • December 27 (Monday): Christmas Day (substitute day)

    • December 28 (Tuesday): Boxing Day (substitute day)​

Scotland and Northern Ireland have additional holidays; please refer to official sources for regional variations.

πŸ›οΈ Impact on Businesses and Travel

These changes may affect business operations, public transport schedules, and travel plans. It's advisable to check with local services and plan accordingly.​

πŸ“Œ Tips for Planning

  • Check Official Calendars: Regularly consult the UK government's official bank holiday listings.​

  • Plan Ahead: Use this information to schedule vacations, events, or work commitments.​

  • Stay Informed: Subscribe to newsletters or alerts for any further changes or announcements.

FAQ

Substitute bank holidays occur when a standard bank holiday falls on a weekend. The holiday is then observed on the next available weekday.​

In 2026, Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, and in 2027, it falls on a Sunday. To ensure workers receive their entitled day off, substitute days are designated on the following Monday and Tuesday, respectively.​

While the changes apply broadly, Scotland and Northern Ireland have additional regional holidays. It's important to check local calendars for specific dates.

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