How to maximise your 2025 leave

The 2025 UK bank holiday dates are 1st January, 18^th April, 21^st April, 5th May, 26th May, 25th August, 25th December, and 26th December. If you book off 14^th-17^th April, and 22^nd-25^th April, you’ll get 16 days off for Easter while only using eight days of leave.

To get nine days off consecutively (including weekends) in May, simply book off 6^th-9^th May, or take your leave at the end of the month and book 27th–30^th May.

And if you book 26th–29th August, you can enjoy a week off in summer, while using any remaining balance to book off December 22^nd, 23^rd, 24^th, 29^th, 30^th and 31^st, so you can maximise your festive break with a full 13-day holiday!

We’ve put our expert heads together to share some of our favourite destinations for each holiday.

Easter holidays

The Mediterranean is already lovely by Easter, and if you go to Crete, Rhodes, or another Greek destination, you might also get to enjoy some of the Greek Orthodox Easter traditions such as candlelit processions, fireworks, and feasts of spit-roast lamb. Portugal's weather is lovely at Easter, especially the sun-drenched family-friendly Algarve region with its many Blue Flag beaches.

Alternatively, head across the pond to Florida, which is cooler now than in high summer and perfect for everything from theme park days out to wildlife spotting.

May Bank Holiday

By May, the Mediterranean has the weather of summer but without the crowds of high season - we love Sicily, Malta, Greece, Majorca, and Cyprus. The Algarve, again, is a great choice at this time of year before the start of higher summer temperatures.

Alternatively, head over the Atlantic to California with its spring warmth, blue skies, and low rainfall. Cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles have ideal weather for sightseeing and theme park trips, while national parks such as Yosemite are coming into their own after the snow in the high country has melted.

August Bank Holiday

In summertime, Croatia is a European favourite (especially gorgeous Hvar, which is perfect for sailing holidays), but you might also want to think about East Africa at the heart of its dry season and the best month for safaris. Further still, Bali and the rest of Indonesia are cool, dry, and inviting at this time of year.

In the other direction, the USA with its cooling temperatures and children going back to school spoils you with choice. Hiking in the Colorado mountains or cycling on Cape Cod are just two lovely ideas for things to do. And don’t forget Mexico, which has its low season in August. It’s still enjoyably warm in destinations including the Riviera Maya, with its mix of beach resorts and Mayan ruins.

Christmas

The party-loving Caribbean is a great place to spend the festive season, with dry weather and unique cultural celebrations to tempt you away from those stunning beaches. Or head to South Africa, which is by now in full summer bloom; perfect for beach life, hiking, and exploring national parks – including Kruger.

The Maldives is great for a full-on tropical escape at Christmas while, closer to home, the Canaries (especially Tenerife) are becoming more popular as a festive destination, with weather warm enough for strolling or hiking on the beaches.

To book your 2025 holiday, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Why these new Cunard voyages deserve a place on your travel wish list

04 June 2026

When Cunard unveiled its latest collection of voyages for 2028, there was plenty to get excited about and their much-loved ship, Queen Victoria, is set to deliver some of the most intriguing itineraries in the programme. From extended Mediterranean discoveries to overnight stays in some of Northern Europe's most captivating cities, these new voyages are designed for travellers who want more time to explore, more unusual destinations, and the classic Cunard experience throughout.

A guide to exploring multicultural Singapore

04 June 2026

Known for its striking skyline, futuristic architecture, and world-famous attractions, one of Singapore’s greatest strengths is something far more personal: its multicultural identity. For visitors, Singapore offers the chance to experience a remarkable blend of influences, often within just a few streets of one another. From historic neighbourhoods and colourful temples to modern waterfront districts and delicious food scenes, it's a destination that is perfect for exploration.

Beach days done properly in Nassau & Paradise Island

02 June 2026

Looking for your next perfect beach-based getaway? Nassau & Paradise Island in The Bahamas strike that rare balance of easy-going beach life and genuinely memorable experiences. One minute you’re stretched out on powder-soft sand with a cold drink in hand, the next you’re snorkelling above coral reefs or wandering through centuries-old landmarks. Whether it’s your first visit to The Bahamas or a return trip for some winter sun, this part of the island delivers far more than just good weather.