UK Bank Holidays 2026

UK bank holidays for 2026 include 8 public holidays in England and Wales, with additional holidays in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Key Takeaways

• 8 bank holidays in England and Wales
• Scotland has 9 bank holidays
• Northern Ireland has 10 bank holidays
• No statutory right to day off on bank holidays
• Enhanced pay may apply if required to work

England and Wales 2026

Scotland 2026

Northern Ireland 2026

Key Rules

Working on Bank Holidays

• No statutory right to day off on bank holidays
• Contract dependent - check employment contract
• Enhanced pay - common but not required by law
• Time off in lieu - alternative to enhanced pay

Bank Holidays and Annual Leave

• Included in statutory entitlement - 28 days includes bank holidays
• Pro-rata for part-time - proportionate entitlement
• Contract dependent - may be in addition to annual leave
• Carry over - if not taken

Managing Bank Holidays

For Employers

1. Check contracts - for bank holiday provisions
2. Communicate early - who needs to work
3. Arrange coverage - for essential services
4. Process payments - enhanced rates or TOIL
5. Maintain records - for 7 years minimum

For Employees

1. Check contract - for bank holiday provisions
2. Request time off - if desired
3. Understand pay - enhanced rates or TOIL
4. Plan ahead - for required working
5. Seek advice - if rights not respected

Compliance Checklist

• Bank holiday dates confirmed
• Employment contracts reviewed
• Enhanced pay arrangements documented
• TOIL arrangements documented
• Employees informed of requirements
• Coverage arranged for essential services
• Records maintained for 7 years
• System supports bank holiday calculations