About UK Summer Holidays
School summer holidays in most of England and Wales begin in mid-to-late July and last around six weeks, with pupils returning in the first few days of September. In 2026, most English and Welsh state schools break up around Monday 20 July, though the exact date is set by each local authority or academy trust, so neighbouring schools can differ by a few days.
Summer holidays differ across the UK
The four nations run noticeably different summer breaks. Scotland breaks up earliest — typically the last week of June — and returns in mid-August, so Scottish pupils are often back at school while English pupils still have weeks of holiday left. Northern Ireland has the longest summer break: schools close at the end of June and take July and August in full, returning at the start of September. England and Wales run from late July to early September. This staggering is why UK-wide events and holiday pricing peak at different times through the summer.
Why are summer holidays six weeks long?
The pattern dates from the 19th century, when the school year was shaped around agricultural and industrial calendars. Despite recurring proposals to shorten the summer break and rebalance terms — and a small number of academies that have done so — the traditional six-week summer has proved remarkably durable in England and Wales.
Term dates for your school
Because dates are set locally, always confirm with your school or local authority website. Independent schools typically break up earlier — often in the first week of July — and enjoy eight weeks or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days until UK Summer Holidays?
There are 352 days until UK Summer Holidays on 19 July 2027.
What day of the week is UK Summer Holidays?
UK Summer Holidays falls on a Monday in 2027.
How many weeks until UK Summer Holidays?
Approximately 50 weeks until UK Summer Holidays.
How many months until UK Summer Holidays?
Approximately 11.6 months until UK Summer Holidays.
How many hours until UK Summer Holidays?
Approximately 8,448 hours until UK Summer Holidays.