When Is Mother’s Day 2026 in the UK?
Mother’s Day 2026 in the UK falls on Sunday, 15 March 2026.
Also called Mothering Sunday, it’s a cherished celebration to honour mothers, grandmothers, and all maternal figures who bring love, care, and guidance to families across the UK.
Why Does the UK Celebrate Mother’s Day on a Different Date?
In the UK, Mother’s Day is tied to the Christian calendar and falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. This tradition dates back centuries, when families returned to their “mother church” during Lent for a special service. Over time, it evolved into a day dedicated to honouring mothers.
This is why the UK date changes every year, unlike Mother’s Day in the US, which is celebrated on the second Sunday in May and has commercial rather than religious roots.
Mother’s Day UK Dates for 2024–2028
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10 March 2024 | Sunday |
| 2025 | 30 March 2025 | Sunday |
| 2026 | 15 March 2026 | Sunday |
| 2027 | 7 March 2027 | Sunday |
| 2028 | 26 March 2028 | Sunday |
How the UK Celebrates Mother’s Day
Across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Mother’s Day is marked with flowers, gifts, cards, and family gatherings. It’s one of the UK’s busiest weekends for restaurants and florists.
Popular ways to celebrate include:
- Giving bouquets of spring flowers
- Treating mums to afternoon tea or a Sunday roast
- Sending Mother’s Day cards and chocolates
- Children creating handmade gifts or poems at school
Gift & Experience Ideas for Mother’s Day 2026
Here are thoughtful ideas for celebrating Mother’s Day 2026:
- Spa day or wellness retreat – ideal for relaxation.
- Weekend getaway – align with nearby spring holidays.
- Personalised gifts – custom jewellery, framed photos, or keepsakes.
- Home surprises – breakfast in bed or a family-cooked meal.
Historical Origins
The UK’s Mothering Sunday tradition began in the 16th century. Christians attended their “mother church” on the fourth Sunday of Lent, and domestic servants were allowed to travel home to visit family. This reunion day evolved into a heartfelt celebration of motherhood that continues today.
Modern Meaning
In today’s UK, Mother’s Day blends centuries-old tradition with modern expressions of gratitude. Whether through digital greetings, brunches, or thoughtful gifts, the heart of the day remains the same — to appreciate the love and care of mothers.
Key Takeaways
- Mother’s Day 2026 UK Date: Sunday, 15 March 2026
- Also known as: Mothering Sunday
- Rooted in: Christian Lent tradition
- Celebrated with: flowers, family meals, and gifts
- Different from: US Mother’s Day in May
Related UK Holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mother’s Day different in the UK?
Mother’s Day in the UK is linked to the Christian festival of Lent and falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. It began as Mothering Sunday, a religious tradition when people returned to their “mother church.” The US version, however, is a modern celebration held in May.
What day is Mother’s Day in the UK?
In 2026, Mother’s Day in the UK will be celebrated on Sunday, 15 March 2026. The date changes every year because it’s based on the Lenten calendar, not a fixed date.
Are UK and US Mother’s Day on the same day?
No. The UK celebrates Mother’s Day in March, while the US celebrates it on the second Sunday in May. The two have different origins — the UK’s stems from religious tradition, while the US version was created as a modern holiday in the early 1900s.
Why is May 8 Mother’s Day?
May 8 isn’t Mother’s Day in the UK — it’s a possible date for Mother’s Day in other countries, such as the US or some European nations, depending on the year. In the UK, Mother’s Day is always celebrated in March, not May.