School holidays 2026

School holidays in 2026

In 2026, these school holidays start in the United Kingdom: February half term, Easter holidays, May half term, summer holidays, October half term and Christmas holidays.

Who breaks up first for the summer in 2026?

Cumberland is among the first to break up for the summer in 2026, on Saturday 18 July. North ayrshire arran is among the last, on Monday 3 August.

The difference is mainly between the nations: schools in Scotland break up in late June or early July, while schools in England and Wales usually finish in the second half of July.

Planning your year

If you're planning a trip, it's worth looking at the dates in other areas too. When schools in several parts of the UK are off at the same time, prices tend to be higher and airports busier. The first weeks of the Scottish summer holidays, before English schools break up, are often a little quieter.

The dates in the table come from council publications. Schools can have extra days off, such as INSET days, which you'll find on the school's website.