With April drawing to a close, attention is already turning to the two May bank holidays in 2026 — and millions of people across the UK are starting to plan their long weekends. Whether you’re booking a last-minute break, arranging childcare, or simply figuring out whether your local supermarket will be open, here is everything you need to know about the May bank holidays this year.
When Are the May Bank Holidays in 2026?
There are two bank holidays in May 2026 for England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland:
- Early May Bank Holiday: Monday 4 May 2026
- Spring Bank Holiday: Monday 25 May 2026
Both fall on a Monday, as is traditional, giving workers and families a three-day weekend on each occasion. If you work a standard Monday-to-Friday week, you can expect a long weekend on both the first and the last weekend of May.
What Are the Dates in Full?
The Early May Bank Holiday creates a long weekend from Saturday 2 May through to Monday 4 May 2026. The Spring Bank Holiday then falls at the end of the month, giving a long weekend from Saturday 23 May through to Monday 25 May 2026. For those lucky enough to take annual leave around the second bank holiday, adding just a few days off either side can create a break of up to ten days — a popular option for families wanting a late-spring holiday without using too much of the annual leave allowance.
Are There Any Differences for Scotland and Northern Ireland?
Scotland and Northern Ireland share the same May bank holiday dates as England and Wales in 2026. However, Scotland observes some additional bank holidays at other points in the year that England and Wales do not, including 2 January and 30 November (St Andrew’s Day). Northern Ireland also has its own additional bank holidays, including 17 March (St Patrick’s Day) and 12 July (the Battle of the Boyne). For May specifically, all four nations are aligned on the same two dates.
What Is and Isn’t Open on Bank Holidays?
Bank holidays affect different services in different ways, and it is always worth checking in advance rather than assuming. Here is a general guide:
- Supermarkets: Most major supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, and Morrisons will operate on bank holidays but typically with reduced hours. Many stores will open later and close earlier than their usual Sunday trading hours. Smaller convenience stores and local shops vary — some stay open all day, others close entirely.
- Shops and retail: High street shops and shopping centres are generally open on bank holidays, often with normal weekend hours. Major retail parks and out-of-town centres are usually open.
- Banks and post offices: Banks and most post offices will be closed on both May bank holidays. ATMs remain operational, and online banking services continue as normal.
- GP surgeries and pharmacies: GP surgeries are typically closed on bank holidays, though out-of-hours services remain available. Many pharmacies also close, so it is worth checking your local pharmacy’s bank holiday hours in advance and stocking up on any regular medication beforehand.
- Public transport: Trains and buses often run to a reduced timetable on bank holidays, similar to a Sunday service. Check your local provider’s website for specific bank holiday schedules.
Ideas for the May Long Weekends
May is one of the best months in the UK for getting outdoors, with longer days, generally mild weather, and the countryside at its most vibrant. The bank holidays provide a natural opportunity to make the most of it. Here are a few ideas:
- Visit one of the UK’s national parks — the Lake District, Snowdonia, and the Peak District are all stunning in May
- Explore a coastal town or seaside resort before the peak summer crowds arrive
- Take a day trip to one of the UK’s many historic sites, gardens, or country houses, many of which run special bank holiday events
- For those heading abroad, May bank holidays are a popular time for short European breaks — but book flights early as prices tend to rise significantly in the weeks before each bank holiday
Bank Holiday Pay: Know Your Rights
It is worth remembering that there is no automatic legal right to be paid extra for working on a bank holiday in the UK. Whether you receive enhanced pay, a day off in lieu, or simply your normal rate depends entirely on your contract of employment. If you are unsure about your entitlement, check your employment contract or speak to your HR department before the bank holidays arrive.
With two long weekends to look forward to and spring in full bloom, May 2026 is shaping up to be a month worth making the most of. Start planning now — particularly if you are hoping to book accommodation or travel, as popular destinations tend to fill up quickly around both bank holiday dates.