UK Bank Holidays 2021
Thinking about jetting off for the next bank holiday but don't know where to start?
There's lots of things to consider when you're planning the perfect bank holiday getaway in 2021, whether you're jetting off abroad or dreaming of the perfect staycation. These might include your airport parking, your transfers and airport lounges, but prices can climb when you travel during the UK bank holidays, so make sure you book well in advance. To kick start your holiday prep, find out the bank holiday UK dates for 2021 below, and then check-out our FAQ's for all the information you need to travel like a pro and enjoy less hassle, more holiday!
We at Holiday Extras work closely with a range of fantastic partners to make sure we can bring you the best deals all year round, so you know you'll always be able to make your money stretch that little bit further. So... where are you off to this bank holiday?
Bank Holiday 2021 England and Wales
England and Wales share the same bank holidays. This year, there will be a total of 8 bank holidays. Have a look below for more information.
*As Christmas Day and Boxing Day fall on a weekend this year, the bank holiday will instead be observed on the Monday and Tuesday after, 27/12/21 and 28/12/21
2021 Bank Holidays Scotland
The bank holidays in Scotland are almost exactly the same as in England and Wales, but with a few significant differences.
UK Bank Holidays Northern Ireland
Bank holidays for Northern Ireland also differ slightly to the rest of the UK, with an impressive total of 10 bank holidays lined up for 2021. Check out the table below for all the dates you need.
*Orangemen's day is the bank holiday to mark the Battle of the Boyne.
Big Savings on all your Airport Essentials
We at Holiday Extras are experts in bringing our customers the best products on all your airport essentials, for the lowest prices possible. From great rates on parking across all major UK airports, to fabulous airport hotels, and from comfortable airport lounges to transfers at your destination, get everything sorted in one place, in one go, for less than you might expect. Who said holiday planning had to be difficult? Head over to our main page to start browsing our huge selection of deals by hitting the button below. Bon voyage!
Holiday Extras Short Breaks UK
If you're planning the perfect bank holiday weekend in 2021, Holiday Extras has a range of fantastic Short Breaks packages available for you. We have thrilling UK Theme Park Breaks which are great for the whole family, including The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort with exciting rides, live shows, 4D movie experiences and more. Why not book one of our many Theatre Breaks packages and enjoy a top London show. Perfect for a show-stopping staycation weekend!
At Holiday Extras we also have a number of city breaks packages available for that special bank holiday weekend, including London City Breaks. Transport yourself on a Nimbus 2000 to the wizarding wonderland that is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter with Hotel Stay & Breakfast, or enjoy The View from The Shard London with Hotel Stay at one of three luxurious London hotels, or a London Thames River Cruise with Afternoon Tea & Hotel Stay.
We pride ourselves on offering great deals with our London experiences and thanks to our partners at TravelZoo, you can enjoy remarkable deals at great prices. You can relive your childhood at the Museum of Brands or delight in Michelin star fine dining. Test your wits in a themed escape room, experience the thrill of a bungee jump at the O2 or ride on a high-speed River Thames boat tour. If you prefer, relaxation awaits anyone who wishes to sip champagne alongside afternoon tea or a delicious 3 course meal with the family on your bank holiday weekend.
For that perfect weekend getaway to London we've also teamed up with Leisure Pass Group to bring you a fantastic package of visiting several of the best London attractions paired with a Hotel Stay. The London Explorer Pass is your one-stop-shop for everything London and there are over 60 attractions to choose from which include must-see major landmarks. We have fantastic UK breaks packages available with many more to follow in 2021 - 'watch this space!'
UK Bank Holiday 2021 FAQ's
Here are some of the most popular questions we're asked about the UK bank holidays, so you can start booking your next escape like a pro - plus, enjoy a few bank holiday facts to entertain the family with!
What is a Bank Holiday?
A bank holiday is a national public holiday, set by parliament, in which traditionally, banks and many businesses close for the day. Bank holidays can also have other names, such as Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Is Good Friday a Bank Holiday?
Yes, Good Friday is a bank holiday, and falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday. Good Friday is a traditionally Christian holiday, in which the crucifixion of Jesus is commemorated.
Is Boxing Day a Bank Holiday?
Yes. Boxing Day, the day after Christmas Day, is indeed a bank holiday, though in 2021 it will be observed by banks and businesses on the 28/12/21. This is because the traditional day (26/12/21) falls on a Sunday this year.
When is May Bank Holiday?
The May bank holiday (also known as May Day bank holiday), is on the 03/05/21 across the UK. Traditions for this bank holiday include dancing around a maypole and Morris dancing, and tend to come with plenty of festivities.
When is August Bank Holiday?
August bank holiday, or the Summer bank holiday, falls on the 30/08/21 for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but falls on the 02/08/21 in Scotland.
Is New Year's Eve a Bank Holiday?
No, New Year's Eve is not a bank holiday, though the day after, New Year's Day, is a bank holiday.
What is St Patrick's Day?
St Patrick's Day is a national holiday predominantly celebrated in Ireland. It commemorates the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Is Easter Sunday a Bank Holiday?
No, Easter is not a bank holiday, as bank holidays cannot take place on a Sunday. However, the working days surrounding Easter, Good Friday and Easter Monday, are indeed bank holidays.
Why do we have Easter Eggs?
Easter eggs were adopted as a Christian symbol of life and rebirth during Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
More Important Information
- Thinking about taking the little ones away during the school holidays? Check out our UK school holidays page for the full range of holiday dates across the UK.
Holiday Extras
"On that trip I learnt something very important. Escape through travel works. Almost from the moment I boarded my flight, life in England became meaningless. Seat-belt signs lit up, problems switched off. Broken armrests took precedence over broken hearts. By the time the plane was airborne I’d forgotten England even existed."
Alex Garland, The Beach