Planning your family holidays and UK short breaks around the academic year just got easier. Welcome to your ultimate holiday list for all England school holidays. This guide provides the key school term dates and school breaks you need to know, from the October half-term to the long summer holidays. Remember, these dates are a rough guide and can vary by council, so always check with your school before you book holidays.
England School Holidays and Term Dates
Get organized for the upcoming school year calendar with our clear tables. This is your go-to planner for the United Kingdom’s key school holiday dates.
2025-2026 Term Dates
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Half Term 2025 | 17/02/2025 | 21/02/2025 |
| Easter Break 2025 | 07/04/2025 | 21/04/2025 |
| Summer Half Term Holidays 2025 | 26/05/2025 | 30/05/2025 |
| Summer Holidays 2025 | 22/07/2025 | 29/08/2025 |
| October Half Term 2025 | 27/10/2025 | 31/10/2025 |
| Christmas Holidays 2025 | 22/12/2025 | 05/01/2026 |
2026-2027 Term Dates
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| October Half Term 2026 | 26/10/2026 | 30/10/2026 |
| Christmas Holidays 2026 | 21/12/2026 | 04/01/2027 |
| February Half Term 2027 | 15/02/2027 | 19/02/2027 |
| Easter Break 2027 | 29/03/2027 | 09/04/2027 |
| May Half Term 2027 | 24/05/2027 | 28/05/2027 |
| Summer Holidays 2027 | 19/07/2027 | 27/08/2027 |
Need Help with UK Bank Holidays?
Have questions about upcoming UK bank holidays or planning time off? Get expert guidance from Coming Holidays and plan your year with clarity and confidence.
Detailed School Term Dates and Holidays
Let’s break down what each holiday period typically involves for family time and planning.
- Spring Half Term: A welcome week-long break in February, perfect for cozy weekend breaks and outdoor activities if the weather permits.
- Easter Break: A two-week holiday in the spring. The dates for the Easter break shift each year, so it’s a key one to mark in your calendar.
- Summer Half Term Holidays: Also known as the May half term, this break offers a brilliant opportunity for a late spring family break.
- Summer Holidays: The big one! The summer holidays are the longest break, ideal for extended trips and making the most of the British summer.
- October Half Term: A spooky season break! The October half term is great for autumn getaways and Halloween fun.
- Christmas Holidays: The Christmas school holidays cover the festive period, giving families time to celebrate together.
Important Note: Dates Can Vary
This is the most crucial point: the dates we provide are a national framework. School holiday dates in England are set by local authorities, not the national government. This means dates vary between different council areas. Always, always confirm with your child’s school for the exact start of term and end of term dates.
Planning Your Family Holidays
Now that you have the school holiday dates for England, it’s time for the exciting part! Use this guide to get ahead and book holidays early for the best deals on UK holidays. Whether you’re looking for adventurous outdoor activities or a relaxing family time retreat, knowing the school term dates is your first step to a successful holiday UK.
Plan Your Year with Confidence
Explore the complete list of countries’ bank holidays and stay ahead with accurate dates, smart planning, and stress-free travel and work schedules.
Explore more school holidays:
- UK School Holidays
- England School Holidays
- Scotland School Holidays
- Wales School Holidays
- Northern Ireland School Holidays
- Renfrewshire School Holidays
- Edinburgh School Holidays
- Fife School Holidays
- Glasgow School Holidays
- Hampshire School Holidays
We hope this holiday list empowers you to plan a fantastic year. With all the key England school holidays in one place, you’re perfectly equipped to organize your family breaks. Happy planning!
FAQs
When do schools go back in September 2026?
The first day of school for the autumn term 2026 is typically around the 1st of September 2026. However, as this can be a weekend, the precise date will be set by your local council.
What are the UK school holiday dates for 2026?
The main UK school holidays for 2026 include a February half term, Easter break, May half term, and a summer holiday running from late July to August. See our detailed tables above for specific dates in England.
Where can I find my local council’s term dates?
You can find your definitive local authority dates by visiting your local council’s official website or the GOV.UK school term dates finder.
Do all schools in England have the same holiday dates?
No. While most follow a similar pattern, academy trusts, foundation schools, and voluntary-aided schools can set their own term dates. Always check with your specific school.
