The eagerly awaited Easter Holidays 2026 in the UK are set for a two-week break for most UK schools, centred around the Good Friday and Easter Monday bank holidays. This guide provides all the essential dates for the Easter Holidays 2026 in the UK, covering England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, to help you plan your family activities and weekend breaks well in advance.
When exactly is Easter in 2026?
In 2026, the Easter weekend falls in early April. The key dates are:
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Good Friday:Â 3rd April 2026
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Easter Sunday:Â 5th April 2026
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Easter Monday:Â 6th April 2026
These dates are calculated based on the lunar calendar and form the core of the Easter Holidays 2026 period, determining both public holidays and school term schedules.
2026 Easter Bank Holidays and Public Holidays Across the UK
Bank holidays are the statutory days off that form the backbone of the long weekend. It’s important to note that not all nations in the United Kingdom observe the same days. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Nation | Good Friday (Bank Holiday) | Easter Monday (Bank Holiday) |
|---|---|---|
| England & Wales | Friday, 3 April 2026 | Monday, 6 April 2026 |
| Northern Ireland | Friday, 3 April 2026 | Monday, 6 April 2026 |
| Scotland | Friday, 3 April 2026 | Not a statutory bank holiday |
Note: While most of the UK gets a four-day weekend, Scotland does not have Easter Monday as a public holiday. Always review your employment contract to determine your specific entitlements.
Read More: Christmas Holidays 2025 in the UK
Easter School Holidays 2026: A Nation-by-Nation Breakdown
The school Easter holidays 2026 UK dates vary by region and are set by local authorities. This is where planning becomes crucial for parents. Here’s what we know so far for the Easter school holidays in 2026 in the UK, England, and beyond.
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England: Dates are set by each local council. For example, many areas like Hampshire, Birmingham, London, Surrey, Devon, and Cornwall typically have a two-week break spanning the end of March and early April. You must check your local council’s website for the confirmed school Easter holidays 2026 UK dates.
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Wales: The Welsh Government sets term dates. The Easter holidays are generally consistent across the country, often running from late March to mid-April.
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Scotland:Â Scottish schools have a different term structure. The spring break often starts and ends slightly later than in other UK nations. Check with your local council (e.g., Highland, Glasgow City) for precise dates.
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Northern Ireland: The Easter holidays 2026 dates for NI are set by the Department of Education and are uniform across the region.
Also Check: Fife School Holidays
How long is the Easter school holiday in 2026?
For most UK primary schools, the Easter holiday 2026 break is typically two weeks. This applies to most state school Easter holidays. The holiday usually starts on a Friday or Monday before Good Friday and ends two weeks later. For instance, a common pattern could be from Friday, 28th March, to Friday, 11th April 2026. Always verify the exact length with your specific school.
Planning Your 2026 Easter Break: Family Activities & Trips
With the dates locked in, you can now plan your perfect April Easter holidays 2026 UK getaway or staycation.
Traditional Easter Activities
Make the most of the kids’ easter holidays in 2026 in the UK with classic fun. Organise a backyard egg hunt, bake hot cross buns, or visit a National Trust property for a spectacular organised hunt. It’s a wonderful time for family activities that create lasting memories.
UK Family Day Trips & Short Breaks
The Easter school holidays in 2026 in the UK are ideal for exploring. Consider:
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City Breaks: Discover museums in London or the cultural hubs of Birmingham.
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Coastal Escapes: Enjoy the rugged beauty of Cornwall or the dramatic shores of Wales.
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Countryside Retreats: Explore the New Forest in Hampshire or the rolling hills of Surrey.
Important Planning Advice
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Book Early: Accommodation for the Easter public holidays in 2026 in the UK gets reserved quickly.
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Check Attraction Times:Â Many venues have special Easter hours or require pre-booking.
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Consider the Weather: April can be unpredictable—pack layers and have indoor backup plans.
Also Read: England Bank Holidays
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FAQs
Q1. Are the Easter bank holidays the same across the entire UK?
No, they are not. While Good Friday is a bank holiday everywhere, Easter Monday is not observed in Scotland. Always check the official list for your nation.
2. Can I take my children on holiday during the Easter school term?
It is strongly discouraged and can result in a fine. Schools have strict attendance policies, and term-time holidays are rarely authorised. Plan your family breaks within the official Easter school holidays 2026 UK dates.
Q3. When will my local council confirm the exact 2026 Easter school dates?
Local councils in England usually finalise and publish school holiday calendars at least 12-18 months in advance. You should find the Easter holidays 2026 UK school dates confirmed by mid-2025.
Q4. Is Easter Monday a public holiday in Scotland?
No, Easter Monday is not a statutory public holiday in Scotland. Good Friday is, but Monday is a normal working day unless specified by an employer.
Q5. Where is the most reliable place to find official bank holiday dates?
The most reliable source is the official GOV.UK website (www.gov.uk/bank-holidays), which lists all UK bank holidays.
Planning for the Easter Holidays 2026 in the UK is your first step to a stress-free and delightful spring break. By marking the key dates of Good Friday (3rd April) and Easter Monday (6th April) and confirming your local school Easter holidays 2026 UK schedule, you can unlock a world of possibilities for family fun and relaxation.
Ready to plan your perfect Easter? Bookmark this page and visit Calendar Times UK again for the latest updates and insightful guides to make the most of every public holiday!
