Public holidays in the United Kingdom

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Public holidays in the United Kingdom are commonly referred to as bank holidays. These holidays are established by statute, royal proclamation, or common law. The term "bank holiday" originates from the time when banks were closed for trading, thus no financial transactions could be conducted.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of bank holidays was first introduced by the Bank Holidays Act 1871, which designated certain days as holidays for bank employees. The act was later replaced by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, which currently governs bank holidays in the UK.

Current Public Holidays[edit | edit source]

Public holidays in the United Kingdom vary between the four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Some holidays are observed nationwide, while others are specific to one or more of the countries.

England and Wales[edit | edit source]

New Year's Day (1 January)
Good Friday (date varies)
Easter Monday (date varies)
Early May Bank Holiday (first Monday in May)
Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May)
Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)
Christmas Day (25 December)
Boxing Day (26 December)

Scotland[edit | edit source]

New Year's Day (1 January)
2 January (2 January)
Good Friday (date varies)
Early May Bank Holiday (first Monday in May)
Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May)
Summer Bank Holiday (first Monday in August)
St Andrew's Day (30 November)
Christmas Day (25 December)
Boxing Day (26 December)

Northern Ireland[edit | edit source]

New Year's Day (1 January)
St Patrick's Day (17 March)
Good Friday (date varies)
Easter Monday (date varies)
Early May Bank Holiday (first Monday in May)
Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May)
Battle of the Boyne (12 July)
Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)
Christmas Day (25 December)
Boxing Day (26 December)

Significance[edit | edit source]

Public holidays in the United Kingdom are significant for various cultural, religious, and historical reasons. They provide an opportunity for people to celebrate important events, spend time with family, and take a break from work.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

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