Spring bank holiday

Spring Bank Holiday 2026 falls on Monday, May 25 — the last Monday of May. This creates a 3-day long weekend (Sat May 23 – Mon May 25).

Spring Bank Holiday is a statutory bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971. It replaced the traditional Whit Monday in 1971 to create a fixed late-May holiday.

Nationwide (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). All government offices, banks, and schools close. This is the second May bank holiday after the Early May Bank Holiday.

May 2026 calendar: Sat May 23 – Sun May 24 – Mon May 25 (Spring Bank Holiday). Often called the "late May bank holiday" or "Whitsun," it marks the traditional start of the summer holiday season.

Banks, government offices, and most businesses close. The Chelsea Flower Show typically takes place the week before. Many schools have a half-term break around this time.

Spring Bank Holiday replaced the moveable Whit Monday (50 days after Easter) with a fixed date to aid business planning. It remains popular for outdoor activities, DIY projects, and short trips.