Public Holidays in London

There are a number of public holidays (also known as Bank Holidays) throughout the year.

Many of London's shops, attractions and businesses stay open throughout the public holidays. Be sure to check opening times before visiting on these days as some will open for reduced hours and others might not open at all.  
Holiday20092010
New Year's DayThursday 1 JanuaryFriday 1 January
Good FridayFriday 10 AprilFriday 2 April

Easter Monday

Monday 13 AprilMonday 5 April
Early May Bank HolidayMonday 4 MayMonday 3 May
Spring Bank HolidayMonday 25 MayMonday 31 May
Summer Bank HolidayMonday 31 AugustMonday 30 August
Christmas DayFriday 25 DecemberSaturday 25 December
Boxing DaySaturday 26 DecemberSunday 26 December

School Holidays

School term dates change from year to year and differ from school to school. In particular there are differences between local authority-run schools and independent schools.

Traditionally, there are three school terms, with short mid-term (half term) breaks and a longer break over the summer:

Summer holiday: late July to early September
Autumn half term: final week of October
Christmas holidays: 20 December to 6 January
Spring half term: one week in mid-February
Easter holidays: two weeks either side of Easter Sunday
Summer half term: one week end of May/early June

There are further differences with many local authorities now adopting a standard school year. This is made up of six terms, each of a similar length.

Holiday Fun

Not sure how to keep the kids occupied during the school holidays? Visit our Family section or our What's On section for some inspirational ideas.

 

Public Holidays Useful Links

 
  • Platinum Partner
    Morris Visitor Publications (MVP)
  • Platinum Partner
    Virgin
  • Platinum Partner
    Transport for London
  • Foreign Exchange
    Thomas Cook