The school holidays UK always seem to creep up on us, often catching parents off guard. Given the variation in half-term and holiday schedules, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the key dates for 2026. This guide aims to assist families in planning their breaks, ensuring you can make the most of the time off with your children.
Below, you’ll find detailed tables for the school holidays in England and Wales, providing clear start and end dates for each holiday period. It’s important to remember that these dates serve as a general guide. For the most accurate information, it’s advised to verify the specific dates with your local council or your children’s school.
England 2026 School Holidays
February half term
Monday 16 February 2026 – Friday 20 February 2026
Easter holidays
Monday 30 March 2026 – Friday 10 April 2026
(Easter Sunday is 5 April 2026)
Spring half term (May half term)
Monday 25 May 2026 – Friday 29 May 2026
Summer holidays
Thursday 23 July 2026 – Tuesday 1 September 2026
(Most schools return in early September)
Autumn half term
Monday 26 October 2026 – Friday 30 October 2026
Christmas holidays (2026–2027)
Monday 21 December 2026 – Friday 1 January 2027
Wales 2026 School Holidays
February half term
Monday 16 February 2026 – Friday 20 February 2026
Easter holidays
Monday 30 March 2026 – Friday 10 April 2026
(Easter Sunday falls on 5 April 2026)
Spring half term (May half term)
Monday 25 May 2026 – Friday 29 May 2026
Summer holidays
Monday 20 July 2026 – Monday 31 August 2026
(Pupils usually return in early September.)
Autumn half term
Monday 26 October 2026 – Friday 30 October 2026
Christmas holidays (2026–2027)
Tuesday 22 December 2026 – Friday 1 January 2027
Please note that the school holiday dates listed above are to be used as a rough guide only. We recommend that you check with your local council and school to find the dates specific to you and/or your children.
Important note
School holiday dates in UK are set by local authorities. While many councils follow this pattern, parents should always check their local council or school website for confirmed dates.
Productive Ways to Spend School Holidays
School holidays offer a fantastic opportunity for children to relax, unwind, and pursue interests outside the classroom. With so many summer learning activities for parents becoming increasingly popular, it’s easier than ever to combine fun with meaningful learning at home or outdoors. Here are some productive ways to spend these breaks:
- Educational Trips – Visits to museums, historical sites, and science centres can be both educational and entertaining, sparking curiosity and learning.
- Creative Projects – Encourage your children to embark on creative projects such as painting, writing, or music, which can foster their artistic talents.
- Outdoor Activities – Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or even gardening. These activities promote physical health and an appreciation for nature. It’s also a great way to deal with exam stress many students experience.
- Reading – Encourage your children to read books. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or comics, reading can significantly aid in developing language skills and imagination.
- Learning New Skills – Holidays are a perfect time to learn new skills, be it a new language, cooking, or coding. Many online platforms offer courses tailored for children.
- Volunteering – Participating in community service or volunteering for a cause can teach children about empathy, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community.
- Start Private Tutoring – Holidays are a great opportunities to start tackling issues that children face at school, including hiring a private tutor to boost students’ confidence and get a head start on the school curriculum.
By planning a mix of fun, relaxation, and learning activities, you can ensure your children make the most of their school holidays, returning to school refreshed and with new experiences to share. When it’s time to transition back to the classroom, our comprehensive going back to school guide can help you prepare for a smooth and successful return.
FAQs:
When are the school holidays UK 2026?
School holiday dates in the UK for 2026 vary by local authority and school. However, most state schools follow a similar pattern: half-term breaks in autumn, spring, and summer, a two-week Easter break, a longer summer holiday, and a short Christmas break. Exact dates are set locally, so families should always check their council or school website.
Do all UK schools have the same holiday dates in 2026?
No. UK school holiday dates are not national.
England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland all set dates differently, and even within England, councils can vary by a week. Independent and academy schools may also set their own calendars. This is why searching for school holiday dates 2026 UK often gives multiple answers.
How long is the summer holiday in the UK in 2026?
For most state schools in England and Wales, the summer holiday in 2026 will last around six weeks, usually running from late July to early September. In Scotland, the summer break typically starts and ends earlier. Independent schools may have longer holidays, depending on their term structure.
Where can I check official school holiday dates for 2026?
The most reliable sources for school holiday dates in 2026 are local council websites and individual school calendars. GOV.UK provides a postcode checker to find council-set dates, but schools should always be treated as the final authority.
