Do you plan to visit London soon? Then, you’ll want to know about the city’s public holidays! These special days are marked by closures of businesses and banks, and some tourist spots may have limited hours or close completely.
When Does London Rest?
London has eight public holidays throughout the year, a mix of religious and historical celebrations. These holidays are set by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act and include six bank holidays and two public holidays.
The Bank Holidays Act of 1871 established these dates. This law has since been updated, but it continues to define the difference between bank holidays and public holidays. Bank holidays are days when banks and government offices are closed, while public holidays are days when most businesses close.
London’s Public Holidays
Here is a calendar of London’s public holidays, complete with explanations!
- New Year’s Day (1st of January): This day celebrates the start of a new year, and it’s a great time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future.
- Good Friday (date varies): Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It’s a public holiday in London, not a bank holiday.
- Easter Monday (date varies): This day marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his death.
- Early May Bank Holiday (first Monday of May): This bank holiday is an extra day off to enjoy the beginning of spring.
- Spring Bank Holiday (end of May): Another bank holiday to relax and enjoy the warm weather of spring!
- Summer Bank Holiday (end of August): This holiday marks the start of summer. Enjoy the warm weather and long days before the autumn arrives!
- Christmas Day (25th of December): Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time for family, friends, and feasting!
- Boxing Day (26th of December): This bank holiday comes after Christmas Day and is a day to enjoy gifts, leftover Christmas dinner, or perhaps take a stroll in the crisp winter air.
Other Special Days to Know
London also observes several other special days that aren’t official public holidays, but are still important dates for the city’s culture.
- Valentine’s Day (14th of February): This day celebrates love and is a great time to express affection for your loved ones.
- St. David’s Day (1st of March): This day commemorates Saint David, the patron saint of Wales.
- St. Patrick’s Day (17th of March): A celebration of Irish culture, St. Patrick’s Day is a day to enjoy traditional music, food, and drink.
- Mothering Sunday (date varies): A day to show appreciation for mothers and celebrate the special bond between parent and child.
- St. George’s Day (23rd of April): St. George’s Day celebrates the patron saint of England.
- Father’s Day (second Sunday of June): A day to honor fathers and celebrate the role they play in our lives.
- Halloween (31st of October): A time for spooky fun, Halloween is a day for dressing up, trick-or-treating, and enjoying haunted houses and scary movies.
- Bonfire Night (5th of November): Bonfire Night commemorates the failure of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. It’s a day for bonfires, fireworks, and celebrations!
- St. Andrew’s Day (30th of November): St. Andrew’s Day is a celebration of the patron saint of Scotland.
London is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural history. Planning your trip around these holidays will allow you to experience the city’s unique traditions and celebrate the diverse community that makes London so special.
