Why are bank holidays called bank holidays?

UK national holidays are called bank holidays in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find out why and how they might affect your trip. read more

In 1871 the Bank Holidays Act was introduced which designated Easter Monday, Whit Monday, the first Monday in August and Boxing Day. The upshot is that people could not be compelled to do anything on a ‘bank’ holiday that they could not be compelled to do on Christmas Day or Good Friday (common law, nationwide public holidays). read more

Q. Why 'bank' holidays . A. It's as obvious as it sounds. Bank holidays are days - literally - on which banks may close for business. Q. Why 'bank' and not 'fishmonger' then, if fishmongers are also closed . A. read more