When are summer holidays 2026 in the UK?
When is summer holidays?
1 Jul 2026 to 20 Aug 2027
Earliest start: Northern Ireland. Latest end: Scotland. Different UK nations break up on different dates.
In 2026, Scottish schools finish 29 June and English schools on 21 July. That 22-day gap is when European resorts are in full summer operation but the bulk of UK family demand hasn't arrived. Prices track demand: late June and early July in France, Spain, Portugal and Italy are all notably cheaper than August for equivalent accommodation.
Dates by UK nation
| Nation | Upcoming dates |
|---|---|
| England | · ✓ Verified |
| Scotland | · ✓ Verified |
| Wales | · ✓ Verified |
| Northern Ireland | · ✓ Verified |
The summer break is the longest UK school holiday and the most expensive period of the year for flights and accommodation. The four UK nations don't break up on the same day. Scotland goes first, England and Wales follow a few weeks later. There's a window in late July and August when all four are off at the same time. That's the period to avoid if you're booking without children.
Prices spike in the last full week of August, when UK demand overlaps with European peak season. The first two weeks of July, before England has finished, are the cheapest part of the wider summer window.
Also searched for as: summer break or school summer holidays.
Dates are based on term dates published by 218 UK local authorities and devolved education bodies. Individual schools, particularly academies in England, may set their own dates within the local authority window. Always confirm specific dates before booking.