Also on Bank Holidays UK: Easter Monday — Date, History & Pay · Christmas Day — Bank Holiday Date, Pay & Rules · 2 January (Scotland Only) — Bank Holiday Explained
The August Bank Holiday is on Monday 31 August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland — but Scotland’s is on Monday 3 August. Plan accordingly if you’re crossing borders.
Why two different dates?
Scotland kept its August Bank Holiday on the first Monday, where it was originally fixed by the Bank Holidays Act 1871. England, Wales and Northern Ireland moved theirs to the last Monday in 1965 to lengthen the school summer break.
What’s open
Standard bank holiday rules apply: banks closed, Royal Mail not delivering, supermarkets open with reduced hours, bins likely delayed. Read more on the Summer Bank Holiday.
Frequently asked
What’s the answer for ‘bank holiday august 2026’?
Monday 31 August 2026 in England, Wales and NI. Monday 3 August 2026 in Scotland.
Are these dates confirmed?
Yes — UK bank holiday dates are confirmed by GOV.UK. Royal Proclamation can move them only in exceptional cases.
Where can I see the full year?
Bank Holidays UK 2026 for the live calendar.