For the majority of people in the UK, Bank holidays are an eagerly anticipated day off from work. They get to enjoy a long weekend followed by a shorter working week and it's often used as a chance to take a short break away from home or for catching up on a bit of DIY around the house.

What are Bank Holidays

Bank holidays are public holidays when all banks are closed for trading. And apart from essential services such as the police, ambulance and fire brigade, the majority of businesses also close for the day. Nowadays more shops such as supermarkets and department stores are choosing to remain open for trading as normal. Although employees are often given the day off work, their entitlement to pay is dependent upon their workplace policy. Read on for more information about the Late May Bank holiday.