Summer Bank Holiday

Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) History

Summer Bank Holiday in Scotland is a public holiday that provides workers with a day off to enjoy the warmth and leisure activities of the summer season. As a substitute for the August Bank Holiday celebrated in the rest of the United Kingdom, the Summer Bank Holiday in Scotland is primarily a day of rest for employees in banks and other institutions. This occasion is a perfect opportunity for people to spend quality time with their families, indulge in recreational activities, or explore the beautiful landscapes that the country has to offer during the time of year when the days are longest and the weather is most pleasant.

The Summer Bank Holiday in Scotland traces its roots back to the Bank Holidays Act of 1871, which introduced four public holidays, including Easter Monday, Whit Monday, the first Monday in August, and Boxing Day. Over the years, changes have been made to the dates and names of these holidays. In 1971, the Banking and Financial Dealings Act dictated that the August Bank Holiday be observed on the last Monday of August, but Scotland decided to maintain the original date for their Summer Bank Holiday.

In Scotland, the Summer Bank Holiday is typically observed on the first Monday of August, allowing residents to enjoy an extended weekend. On this day, locals can visit scenic spots such as the Highlands or the Isle of Skye, attend various summer festivals or events, or simply relax with friends and family at home or in parks. Due to regional variation in bank holidays throughout the United Kingdom, the August Bank Holiday takes place on the last Monday of the month for the rest of the UK, whereas the people of Scotland celebrate their Summer Bank Holiday on the first Monday of August.

Summer Bank Holiday Facts

• When a bank holiday happens to fall on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes the day when the holiday is observed. This is known as substitute day or bank holiday in lieu.
• Royal proclamation is used to move holidays that would otherwise fall on a weekend or that interfere with special occasions. The proclamation can also be used to create additional one-off holidays (an example is the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012).
• Public holidays in Scotland are often based on tradition. Examples include the Glasgow Fair and the Dundee Fortnight. They pre-date bank holidays by centuries, with Glasgow Fair having its roots in the 12th century.
• The term bank holiday is derived from the time when banks were actually closed on these days, and this influenced other businesses and organizations to do the same.
• The Summer Bank Holiday was introduced by Sir John Lubbock, a British politician and scientist, to give workers a day off to relax and spend time with their families.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Summer Bank Holiday

Summer Bank Holiday Top Things to Do

• Get down to the pub and celebrate the three-day weekend.
• See Scottish military tradition in action at the Edinburgh Tattoo. It includes an evening of music, ceremony, and performance from Scotland’s military regiments and battalions.
• If you're up for a road trip, the North Coast 500 is a scenic coastal route that takes you through picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vast beaches.
• Soak up the stunning natural beauty of the Cairngorms National Park, with various outdoor activities available, such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
• Enjoy visiting the Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and explore the vibrant Glasgow city center with its shopping districts, parks, and culinary experiences.