Holidays in England

Holidays - is a term used by the English to describe both the two weeks summer holiday and special days such as Christmas. This page is included to give the dates of the pubic and bank holidays in England. UK bank holidays are strictly observed by the banks so as the term implies you would not be able to get money over the counter at a bank on a bank holiday. Shops are either closed or operate a "Sunday service" ie later opening and earlier closing. The larger superstores are usually open. In small towns everything is likely to be closed.  

Originally - the holidays were named for religious dates and you will still hear people refer to the Whit holidays, short for Whitsuntide, when traditionally children from the church Sunday schools would dress up and join a Whit walk. Sadly this custom has all but died out. If you do happen to be in area which still enjoys these festivities you will find that the streets are temporarily closed for the processions.
Another custom that has still survived to a degree is that of the Wakes weeks. In my local area the whole town used to come to a virtual standstill on the last week in June and the first in July. The local factories used to close for a break and this was the signal for everyone to go for their annual holiday. The effect is reduced now but you do still see a sharp decrease in the number of people in the street during those two weeks.

England Public Holidays 2008

New Years Day Jan 1st
Good Friday March 21st
Easter Sunday March 23rd
Easter Monday March 24th
May Bank holiday May 5th
Late May Bank Holiday May 26th
August Bank Holiday August 25th
Christmas Day Dec 25th
Boxing Day 26th

Transport is affected on public holidays with buses and trains running fewer services. Taxis usually charge a higher rate and you would be wise to book ahead.

Social Bookmarking