Summer bank holiday
The summer bank holiday falls on the last Monday in August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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Upcoming dates
| Event | Date | Countdown | Region / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer bank holiday 2026 | Monday, 31 August 2026 | In 3 months | England, Wales and Northern Ireland |
| Summer bank holiday 2027 | Monday, 30 August 2027 | In 1 year 3 months | England & Wales |
| Summer bank holiday 2028 | Monday, 28 August 2028 | In 2 years 3 months | England & Wales |
| Summer bank holiday 2029 | Monday, 27 August 2029 | In 3 years 3 months | England & Wales |
The summer bank holiday falls on the last Monday in August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is one of the busiest long weekends for travel, festivals, family days out and end-of-summer breaks. Scotland has a separate summer bank holiday on the first Monday in August, so always check the region before making plans. The late August date is predictable years ahead because it follows a simple calendar rule. It often marks the final break before schools return for the autumn term.
travel
Plan an August bank holiday break
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Verified 12 May 2026
Questions
When is the summer bank holiday in 2026?
Monday 31 August 2026 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Is Scotland the same?
No. Scotland normally has its summer bank holiday on the first Monday in August.
Is it always a Monday?
Yes, it is a Monday bank holiday.
Why is it busy?
It is the final major summer long weekend before many schools return.