PublicShut

Early May Bank Holiday

Monday, 4 May 2026 · United Kingdom · Nationwide · Public holiday

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Bridge day check

Falls on a Monday, so it makes a three-day weekend with no leave needed.

What the day is for

Introduced in 1978 and the least ceremonial of the UK's holidays — a first Monday in May that simply starts the summer season. Occasionally moved for national commemorations.

Do shops and banks close?

Banks close; retail trades fully. Garden centres and DIY chains do their biggest weekend of the year.

Getting around

Saturday-style rail timetables and heavy motorway traffic on the Friday evening.

See the full United Kingdom holiday calendar or count the working days.