The idea of gaining an extra bank holiday in 2025 sparked curiosity across the UK. For many, it offered the promise of more time with family, long weekends, and national celebrations.
But with plenty of headlines suggesting possibilities and others reporting rejections, the truth can seem a little unclear. If you’ve found yourself wondering whether you should plan around an additional day off next year, you’re not alone.
As the UK approached the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, discussions surfaced about honouring this historical milestone with a special bank holiday. With such a significant occasion in focus, many hoped the government would support the idea.
However, despite strong public and industry backing, the official response has left some disappointed. This blog explores everything you need to know, including the government’s final decision, the reasons behind it, and what alternatives are planned for 2025 instead.
Will the UK Have an Extra Bank Holiday in 2025?
In short, no, the UK will not be getting an extra bank holiday in 2025. Despite early discussions and hopeful speculation, the UK government has confirmed that there will be no additional public holiday to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This decision applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Early reports had hinted at potential dates such as 8 May for Victory in Europe (VE) Day or even tying celebrations with the August Summer Bank Holiday. This led to rising public expectations and media coverage that fed the idea of a commemorative four-day weekend.
However, those possibilities were officially dismissed when Number 10 clarified that the existing Early May Bank Holiday would be used to mark any public events or commemorative activities.
While the anniversary remains a moment of great historical importance, the government’s approach will focus on using current holidays efficiently rather than expanding the calendar. The final stance is now settled, and the 2025 bank holiday schedule remains unchanged apart from the regular national holidays.
Why Was an Extra Bank Holiday Proposed for 2025?
The concept of an extra bank holiday in 2025 emerged from the desire to mark a historic milestone, the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
This event shaped the modern world and is considered one of the most defining moments in global history. As such, several groups proposed honouring the occasion with a dedicated national holiday.
Key reasons behind the proposal included:
- Celebrating Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) on 8 May 2025
- Marking Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on 15 August 2025
- Recognising the remaining living WWII veterans
- Providing a national moment of unity and reflection
- Using the event as an educational opportunity for younger generations
Several options were explored for scheduling the extra day off. Proposals ranged from aligning the date with existing holidays to creating a four-day weekend between 9–12 May.
The Mirror newspaper even reported strong public backing for the idea, citing that 73% of respondents supported a new holiday, while only 13% opposed it. This level of support added momentum to the proposal in its early stages.
Despite its appeal, however, the extra bank holiday remained just a proposal until officially reviewed by the government, where it was eventually dismissed.
What Was the Government’s Decision on the Extra Bank Holiday 2025?
After weeks of speculation and hopeful headlines, the UK Government officially rejected the proposal for an extra bank holiday in 2025.
The decision was made following internal discussions and assessments on the wider economic impact and feasibility of introducing an additional national day off.
Key points from the government’s announcement:
- No new bank holiday will be added to the 2025 calendar
- Commemorative events will take place during the Early May Bank Holiday
- The decision applies across all four nations of the UK
- The estimated economic cost of a new bank holiday, around £2 to £2.4 billion, was cited as a major reason
- The government remains committed to recognising the historical importance of VE and VJ Day
A spokesperson for Number 10 stated that the 80th anniversaries will be commemorated appropriately, but not through an additional day off work.
Instead, the government emphasised that these significant moments should be marked without causing substantial economic disruption. They announced £10 million in funding to support events across the UK as part of the national tribute.
While many welcomed the intent to remember the wartime efforts, the lack of an extra day off left a section of the public and businesses disappointed, especially those in the hospitality sector.
What Will Replace the Extra Bank Holiday in 2025?
Although the UK will not see an additional bank holiday in 2025, the government has confirmed that commemorations will still go ahead in a different format.
The existing Early May Bank Holiday, scheduled for Monday 5 May 2025, will be used to host events and tributes related to the Second World War anniversaries.
This decision means that while you won’t get an extra day off, you can still expect national events, ceremonies, and commemorations during the already scheduled bank holiday.
The focus will be on Victory in Europe Day (8 May) and Victory over Japan Day (15 August). However, activities will be concentrated in early May for practical reasons.
The government’s replacement approach includes:
- Allocating £10 million for public commemorative events
- Encouraging local councils to organise community-led tributes
- Collaborating with veteran organisations for official ceremonies
- Promoting educational initiatives for younger generations
This alternative ensures that the anniversaries are not overlooked while maintaining the economic balance that an additional public holiday would disrupt.
How Did the Public and Industry React?
The decision to cancel plans for an extra bank holiday was met with mixed reactions across the UK. While some understood the government’s concerns about economic impact, others saw it as a missed opportunity to honour veterans and support struggling industries.
A Mirror poll revealed that 73% of the public supported the idea of an extra holiday, with only 13% opposed. Many felt that it would have been a meaningful way to pay tribute to those who served in the war.
There was also concern about young people’s awareness of WWII, with 66% of survey respondents believing more education is needed on the subject.
The hospitality sector expressed disappointment as well. Leaders from UKHospitality and CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) argued that bank holidays are crucial for boosting trade, particularly for pubs, bars, and restaurants.
Martin Williams, formerly of M Restaurants, called the decision a “lost opportunity”, highlighting that local hospitality venues could have greatly benefited.
Though events will still occur, many feel the absence of a new holiday downplays the historical significance of this major anniversary.
What Are the Confirmed UK Bank Holidays for 2025?
If you’re planning your time off or looking ahead to long weekends in 2025, it’s helpful to know the confirmed dates. Since the extra bank holiday in 2025 will not happen, the following are the official bank holidays across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Here’s a full list of UK bank holidays in table format for 2025:
| Date | Day of the Week | Bank Holiday | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 April 2025 | Friday | Good Friday | UK-wide |
| 21 April 2025 | Monday | Easter Monday | UK (except Scotland) |
| 5 May 2025 | Monday | Early May Bank Holiday | UK-wide |
| 26 May 2025 | Monday | Spring Bank Holiday | UK-wide |
| 25 August 2025 | Monday | Summer Bank Holiday | UK (except Scotland) |
| 25 December 2025 | Thursday | Christmas Day | UK-wide |
| 26 December 2025 | Friday | Boxing Day | UK-wide |
Scotland typically observes a different set of holidays, and the early January holiday is not included here. Keep an eye on local council announcements for region-specific variations.
These are the only public holidays currently approved for the 2025 calendar.
Can the Government Still Add an Extra Bank Holiday in 2025?
Technically, the government retains the authority to introduce new bank holidays, even after announcing that no extra one will take place in 2025. However, the chances of this happening at this stage appear very slim, given the firm decision already made and the economic reasoning provided.
Several factors would need to change for a reversal to occur:
- A major public or political push in favour of a new bank holiday
- Pressure from veteran charities or historical groups
- New budget allocations that offset the £2 billion economic cost
- A shift in public mood closer to the date of VE or VJ Day
- A new proposal that consolidates celebrations with existing holiday structures
Despite this, past decisions like the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee show that the UK government is capable of making last-minute additions.
So while the likelihood is low, it’s not entirely impossible. If you’re hoping for a last-minute surprise, it’s best to stay informed through government websites and official news sources.
How Can You Make the Most of UK Bank Holidays in 2025?
Even without an additional holiday, you can still enjoy the year’s existing UK bank holidays to their fullest. With a bit of planning, you can turn standard long weekends into memorable breaks, mini getaways, or much-needed rest days.
Here are a few tips to help you maximise your time:
- Plan early to book trips around confirmed long weekends
- Combine annual leave with bank holidays to extend your time off
- Attend local commemorative events during the May bank holiday
- Support small businesses like pubs, restaurants, and local events
- Explore UK destinations that are easy to access during a 3-day weekend
- Host gatherings or reunions around the public holidays to stay connected
With the Early May Bank Holiday dedicated to VE Day and VJ Day events, you’ll still have the opportunity to participate in something meaningful. Whether you travel or stay home, thoughtful planning ensures that 2025’s holidays won’t feel like a missed opportunity at all.
Conclusion
The prospect of an extra bank holiday in 2025 captured national attention and raised expectations for a special moment of unity.
While the UK government ultimately chose not to add a new public holiday, alternative plans are in place to ensure the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII is respectfully honoured. The decision reflects a balance between commemoration and economic practicality.
Even though the calendar remains unchanged, there’s still much to look forward to. With national events scheduled and communities encouraged to take part, the Early May Bank Holiday promises to be a time of remembrance.
Make the most of the existing breaks and engage with the tributes to ensure the legacy of this historic milestone is not forgotten.
FAQs
Did the UK ever have an extra bank holiday for World War II commemorations before?
Yes, the UK added a bank holiday in 2020 to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
How many bank holidays are there in the UK in 2025?
There are eight public holidays in England and Wales in 2025, not including any additional ones.
Is there a chance the government might reverse the decision later?
While unlikely, the government could still introduce a new holiday if public pressure or policy changes arise.
What are VE Day and VJ Day, and why are they important?
VE Day marks the end of WWII in Europe, and VJ Day marks Japan’s surrender, ending the war globally.
How do bank holidays impact the UK economy?
Each additional bank holiday is estimated to cost the UK economy around £2 to £2.4 billion.
Are there regional differences in bank holiday dates?
Yes, Scotland and Northern Ireland observe different public holidays compared to England and Wales.
Will schools or workplaces close for WWII commemorations?
No extra closures are planned, but events may be held within schools or workplaces on existing bank holidays.
