When do UK schools break up for summer 2026?

Scotland breaks up first, in the last week of June or first week of July. England, Wales and Northern Ireland finish in late July, with Northern Ireland often a day or two later than England.

Which week of summer is cheapest?

The first two weeks of July. Scotland is on holiday but England, Wales and Northern Ireland are still in school, so UK family demand is muted.

UK summer holidays 2026

Q: Which week of summer is most expensive?

The last full week of August. All four UK nations are off, and demand from Ireland, much of continental Europe and the US peaks at the same time.

Summer is the longest school holiday and the most expensive time to travel. The four UK nations don't break up on the same day, and that gap is the most useful thing to know when planning a summer trip.

Summer 2026 holiday dates by UK nation

Nation	Upcoming dates
England	21 Jul – 31 Aug 2026 · 22 Jul – 31 Aug 2027
Scotland	29 Jun – 14 Aug 2026 · 2 Jul – 20 Aug 2027
Wales	21 Jul – 31 Aug 2026 · 21 Jul – 31 Aug 2027
Northern Ireland	1 Jul – 31 Aug 2026 · 1 Jul – 31 Aug 2027

Why the start dates differ

Scotland breaks up first, the last week of June or first week of July, because its school year starts in mid-August. England, Wales, and Northern Ireland generally finish in late July, with Northern Ireland often a day or two later than England.

This three-to-four week gap between Scottish and English start dates creates a genuine off-peak window. In mid-July, Scottish families are already on holiday while most English schools are still in session. Destinations in Scotland, Europe, and beyond see lighter family demand.

The cheapest weeks to travel in summer

The most expensive week of summer is the last full week of August. By then all four UK nations are off, and demand from Ireland, much of continental Europe, and the US is also peaking. The cheapest weeks, in date order:

First two weeks of July. Scotland is off, but England, Wales, and NI are still in school. Quiet at Scottish destinations and good for Scottish families heading abroad.
Third and fourth weeks of July. England has broken up, but the full peak hasn't kicked in. Often 15 to 25% cheaper than late August for the same destinations.
Last week of August. The most expensive. Scotland is back in school, but England, Wales, and NI are still off. The final chance for families tied to English, Welsh, or NI term dates.

Northern Ireland's longer summer

Northern Ireland has the longest UK summer break at roughly eight weeks, around 1 July to the end of August. NI families get more flexibility but more competition within their own window. The NI summer overlaps almost entirely with England's peak.

INSET days at the start and end of summer

English state schools each set five INSET days a year, and some attach one to the start or end of summer. A Friday INSET on the first week back in September can give English families an extra long weekend at post-peak prices. Get your school's INSET calendar as early as possible.

Summer holiday dates vary by school, particularly for academies in England. Dates shown are the typical range for most state schools in each nation. Always confirm with your school before booking.