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GP surgeries are closed on bank holidays. NHS 111, A&E and emergency dental services remain available.
What’s closed
- NHS GP surgeries (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland)
- NHS dental practices (most — emergency dental triaged via 111)
- Routine outpatient appointments at NHS hospitals
- NHS Walk-in Centres in some areas — check locally
What’s open
- NHS 111 — call or visit 111.nhs.uk for non-urgent advice
- A&E (Emergency departments) — 24/7 for urgent injuries and illnesses
- Maternity units — 24/7
- Mental health crisis lines — 24/7
- Pharmacies on rota — listed on NHS.uk
Repeat prescriptions
Order at least three working days in advance of a bank holiday. Most surgeries don’t process new requests on the day itself, and pharmacies on rota may not stock everything.
If you become unwell on a bank holiday
Use the NHS 111 service first for non-urgent issues — call 111 or use 111.nhs.uk. They will direct you to a GP out-of-hours service, an urgent treatment centre, or A&E as appropriate. Do not wait for the surgery to reopen if symptoms are concerning.
Frequently asked
Is the answer to ‘nhs bank holiday’?
Nhs bank holiday — see our quick answer above.
Where is this defined?
UK statutes and gov.uk are the primary sources. Specific rules vary by sector and contract.
What if I’m unsure of my own situation?
Speak to ACAS, your employer’s HR, or a UK solicitor if it involves money or contractual rights.