The Late Summer Bank Holiday is celebrated every last Monday of August in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland ( and on every first Monday of August in Scotland). This year, it takes place on August 28. The holiday was created to provide workers with a break before the conclusion of summer and before the long period of work without a holiday between then and Christmas. This holiday was formerly observed on the first Monday of August, but in 1971, it was moved to the last Monday. However, the original date is preserved in Scotland. Many people in the United Kingdom will visit local beaches, parks, and tourist destinations on this day.
History of Late Summer Bank Holiday
The Bank Holidays Act of 1871 established four national holidays in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, as well as five in Scotland: Easter Monday, the first Monday in August, Christmas Day, Whit Monday, and New Year’s Day. Unlike the Spring bank holidays, the August bank holiday is not associated with any previous religious celebration.However, Sir John Lubbock’s celebration in 1871 took place during a crucial cricket match. The holiday was chosen to allow workers one final chance to enjoy summer before the extended stretch of no vacations leading up to Christmas.The then-Secretary of State for Industry, Edward Heath, proposed a temporary alteration to the August Bank Holiday in England and Wales in 1964. For many years, the shift from the beginning to the end of August had been suggested since the early August holiday nearly invariably interfered with the annual summer two-week shut down of large industries, which began in the last week of July.By August 1971, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland had permanently switched to the last Monday in August, although Scotland remained on the previous schedule. The Notting Hill Carnival, which began in 1966 as a celebration of London’s Caribbean community, their culture, and traditions, is one of the most renowned festivities that take place on the August Bank Holiday.
Late Summer Bank Holiday timeline
There were 33 public holidays in the United Kingdom until 1834, consisting of saint's days and religious festivals.
Sir John Lubbock, a liberal politician and banker, creates the Bank Holidays Act.
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland permanently switch to the last Monday in August to celebrate the last summer bank holiday.
The British parliament considers whether the May Day bank holiday should be replaced with a different holiday in October.
Late Summer Bank Holiday FAQs
What are the national holidays in the U.K?
New Year’s Day, Good Friday, the early May bank holiday, the Spring bank holiday, the Summer bank holiday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day are the seven national holidays.
How long is the summer bank holiday?
It lasts around three days.
Are there other holidays in the U.K?
Yes, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Late Summer Bank Holiday Activities
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Have a relaxing day
This holiday season is the ideal time to reconnect yourself with your bed. Take advantage of this short respite to get some much-needed rest and a break from waking up early for the rest of the year.
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Assume the role of tourist
Take advantage of this vacation to see all of the sights and places you don't get to see very often. Take your tourist position to the next level by going on a road trip with your companions to Ireland or the English mainland.
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Participate in local carnivals and festivals
This is the time of year when some of the best shows take place. One such event is the Notting Hill Carnival. To avoid losing out on the excitement, make sure to plan ahead.
5 Interesting Facts About Bank Holidays
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The Banking and Financial Dealings Act
The Banking and Financial Dealings Act of 1971 serves as the legal basis for bank holidays today.
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A royal proclamation
Since the 1971 Act, each year's bank holidays have been designated by royal proclamation.
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Working on bank holidays
One may be required to work on bank holidays if you have a contract.
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The original name of bank holidays
The earliest bank holidays were dubbed "St Lubbock's Days.
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Most public holidays observed
India observes 21 days of public holidays.
Why We Love Late Summer Bank Holiday
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It increases productivity
Bank holidays provide you with the opportunity to refuel your energy reserves before returning to work. Resting restores you and reduces any leftover stress, and when you return to work, your productivity rises.
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It makes people happier
If we spend our time away from work wisely, having time to ourselves after a long day at work affects and enhances our happiness. Quality time off has been demonstrated in studies to help us manufacture more dopamine, which naturally makes us happier.
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It commemorates summer's final days
Summer is a season that is underappreciated. Summertime means loose-fitting clothes, tans, ice cream, and warm weather that encourages us to get outside. The Late Summer Bank Holiday allows us to enjoy the final days of this warm season.
Late Summer Bank Holiday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | August 29 | Monday |
| 2023 | August 28 | Monday |
| 2024 | August 26 | Monday |
| 2025 | August 25 | Monday |
| 2026 | August 31 | Monday |
