What are the best long weekends and breaks to plan holidays in 2026?
In 2026, there are several opportunities for extended holidays thanks to how the UK bank holidays and weekends fall. Here are some key dates to keep in mind when booking your time off:
Easter break: Good Friday is on 3rd April 2026 and Easter Monday on 6th April, giving you a four-day weekend. Book a few extra days around it for a longer spring escape.
Early May bank holiday: Falls on Monday 4th May 2026, perfect for a quick city break or a relaxing weekend away.
Spring bank holiday: Lands on Monday 25th May 2026. Combine this with a few extra days' leave for a full week in the sun, just before the peak of summer.
August bank holiday: Monday 31st August 2026. Great for a late summer getaway or one last beach break before autumn.
Christmas and New Year: Christmas Day is on a Friday and Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, meaning Monday 28th December will be a substitute bank holiday. New Year’s Day is on Thursday, so with some careful planning, you could turn this into a longer winter break.
Planning around these dates means more holidays for fewer days off, so they’re ideal for getting the most out of your annual leave in 2026.