How to Get the Most Out Of Bank Holidays in 2026?
Picture this: you’re soaking in the warm spa at VAYA Sölden, snowflakes dancing outside, and you think to yourself, “Two leave days, six days off. Clever me.” The good news? That’s exactly what 2026 looks like. The calendar is on your side this year.
With a little smart planning, you can turn just a few days of annual leave into long weekends, relaxing midweek escapes, or even two-week holidays. Perfect for spontaneous lake getaways, spring hikes through the Alps, or a sun-soaked ski trip in the mountains.
The UK calendar for 2026 is full of well-placed bank holidays, many landing on Mondays or Fridays. It’s ideal for creating extended breaks without using too much leave. With the right combination of public holidays and bridge days, you can turn your 28 leave days into up to 60 days off in total.
Imagine a spring getaway in Zell am See, a summer recharge at VAYA Zillertal, or a winter wellness escape at The Crystal VAYA Unique in Obergurgl. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to plan your 2026 holidays and where to enjoy them the VAYA way.
Holiday planning
Bank Holidays 2026 in the UK
Here’s your overview of all public holidays across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including regional ones. Use them wisely and turn short breaks into long, well-deserved escapes.
January
1 January (Thursday): New Year’s Day
2 January (Friday): 2nd January Holiday (Scotland only)
- Take off: 2 January (Friday, England/Wales/Northern Ireland only)
- Result: 4 days off (1–4 January) using 1 leave day
March
17 March (Tuesday): St Patrick’s Day (Northern Ireland only)
- Take off: 16 & 18 March (Monday & Wednesday)
- Result: 5 days off (15–19 March) using 2 leave days
April
3 April (Friday): Good Friday
6 April (Monday): Easter Monday
- Take off: 7–10 April (Tuesday–Friday)
- Result: 10 days off (3–12 April) using 4 leave days
May
4 May (Monday): Early May Bank Holiday
- Take off: 5–8 May (Tuesday–Friday)
- Result: 9 days off (3–11 May) using 4 leave days
25 May (Monday): Spring Bank Holiday
- Take off: 26–29 May (Tuesday–Friday)
- Result: 9 days off (24 May–1 June) using 4 leave days
July
13 July (Monday): Battle of the Boyne / Orangemen’s Day (Northern Ireland only)
- Perfect for a midsummer getaway — no extra leave needed.
August
3 August (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland only)
31 August (Monday): Summer Bank Holiday (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)
- Take off: 1–4 September (Tuesday–Friday)
- Result: 9 days off (30 August–7 September) using 4 leave days
November
30 November (Monday): St Andrew’s Day (Scotland only)
- Take off: 27 November (Friday)
- Result: 4 days off (27–30 November) using 1 leave day
December
25 December (Friday): Christmas Day
28 December (Monday): Boxing Day (substitute day)
- Take off: 21–24 December (Monday–Thursday)
- Result: 10 days off (20–29 December) using 4 leave days
Your 2026 VAYA break
From long weekends to alpine escapes
With the 2026 bank holidays perfectly spaced throughout the year, you can turn your calendar into a series of little wellness escapes. And where better to do that than at VAYA?
Imagine waking up in the Alps, crisp mountain air flowing through your window, and starting the day with a breakfast that tastes like pure holiday. Then it’s up to you: hit the slopes, take a dip in a crystal-clear lake, or unwind in the spa. However you choose to spend your time, every day feels like a reset.
Our VAYA Resorts are made for exactly these moments: spontaneous getaways, long weekends and midweek escapes from the everyday. Whether you’re skiing in Fieberbrunn, walking through snowy forests in Seefeld, or soaking up the sun on your balcony at VAYA Zillertal, every destination has its own rhythm but shares the same VAYA spirit: relaxation, great food and a touch of alpine luxury.
And with our Alpine Lifestyle Midweek offers, it’s easier than ever. Travel flexibly from Sunday to Wednesday, enjoy all the comforts, and make the most of your public holidays. A short break, a big effect. That’s the VAYA way.
2026
The holiday plan for 2026
A little planning goes a long way. With the right mix of bank holidays and leave days, 2026 can be your year of balance between work, rest, and unforgettable experiences. Start planning now and make every day off count.
Discover our VAYA Resorts and get inspired for your next escape.
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Service at the highest level, excellent locations in the premier resorts throughout Austria. Typical VAYA design with the highest quality furnishing and the use of wood, glass and leather characterize the VAYA Resorts. With many different accommodation types and categories to choose from, there is something for everyone, stunning wellness areas and the lifestyle restaurant VAYA Bar & Grill all complement a wonderful stay.
VAYA Apartments
The equipment of our exclusive VAYA apartments leaves nothing to be desired. They are available in many different sizes and configurations. Thanks to the integrated kitchen with a dining area, allow you to spend your holidays how you like in your own time. A number of additional services are available on request such as a bread and pastry morning delivery service.
VAYA Unique
Exceptional service, highest quality in every area and unique design characterize VAYA Unique. Its unique location makes it just as special as its facilities. In addition to culinary delights, you will also experience wellness at its best at VAYA Unique. VAYA Unique is special – just like you.
