United Kingdom calendar countdown
Early May bank holiday is getting closer.
In England and Wales, the early May bank holiday falls on the 1st Monday in May. Bank holiday dates can differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Dates for 2026 to 2028 are listed below
May bank holidays in the UK
The early May date follows the England and Wales schedule. Scotland and Northern Ireland have some different bank holiday dates.
About Early May bank holiday in the United Kingdom
The early May bank holiday was first introduced in 1978, reflecting the long association of 1 May with workers' movements and spring customs. Older traditions include maypole dancing, Morris dancing and the Beltane fires of Celtic heritage. In Padstow, Cornwall, the Obby Oss festival is held on 1 May itself, with processions through the streets.
When is Early May bank holiday in the United Kingdom?
The early May bank holiday falls on the first Monday in May in England and Wales, giving 4 May 2026, 3 May 2027 and 1 May 2028.
| Calendar | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Monday 4 May 2026 | Monday 3 May 2027 | Monday 1 May 2028 |
Planning around Early May bank holiday
Rail engineering works often take place over the long weekend, so check your route before travelling, and book garden centres, campsites and attractions early because it is a popular outing. Work out shifts and childcare cover with the free shift planner, or browse every holiday countdown.
Early May bank holiday questions
How many days until Early May bank holiday in the United Kingdom?
The live counter at the top of this page shows the days, hours, minutes and seconds left until the next Early May bank holiday in the United Kingdom, using the time zone you choose. The dates for 2026 to 2028 are in the table above.
When is Early May bank holiday in 2027 in the United Kingdom?
Early May bank holiday falls on Monday 3 May 2027 in the United Kingdom.
Can the early May bank holiday be moved?
Yes. The government can alter bank holidays for special occasions. In 2020 it moved from Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.