January Bank Holiday 2026 UK: Dates, Regions & What to Expect
The January bank holiday 2026 in the UK marks the first public holiday of the year and offers a welcome break after the New Year celebrations. However, the exact date and observance vary depending on where you live in the UK. This guide explains when the January bank holiday falls in 2026, which regions observe it, and how it affects businesses and travel.
When Is the January Bank Holiday in 2026?
In 2026, New Year’s Day falls on Thursday, 1 January 2026. Since it is already a weekday, no substitute day is required in most parts of the UK.
January Bank Holiday 2026 by Region
| Region | Bank Holiday Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| England & Wales | 1 January 2026 | Thursday |
| Scotland | 1 January 2026 | Thursday |
| Northern Ireland | 1 January 2026 | Thursday |
✅ Scotland also observes an additional January holiday later in the month (2 January), which does not apply to the rest of the UK.
Scotland: Extra January Bank Holiday
In Scotland, Friday, 2 January 2026, is also a public bank holiday. This tradition allows for extended New Year (Hogmanay) celebrations and is unique to Scotland.
| Scottish January Holidays 2026 |
|---|
| 1 January 2026 – New Year’s Day |
| 2 January 2026 – January Bank Holiday (Scotland only) |
Are Shops and Businesses Open on January holiday?
- Large supermarkets often operate reduced hours on 1 January.
- High street shops may open later or remain closed.
- Banks are closed on all UK bank holidays.
- Online services generally operate as normal, though customer support may be limited.
Travel & Public Transport
- Public transport typically runs on a bank holiday or Sunday schedule.
- Trains and buses may have reduced services.
- Engineering works are common during early January—check ahead.
💡 Is 2 January 2026 a Bank Holiday in the UK?
- ❌ England & Wales: No
- ❌ Northern Ireland: No
- ✅ Scotland: Yes
This often causes confusion, especially for nationwide employers and travelers
