Bank and Public Holidays are the same, right?

Over the weekend, which contained Bank Holiday Monday (Early May Bank Holiday), I referred to it as a public holiday and was met with a firm correction, “It’s a Bank Holiday!” Having worked in a number of international companies over time, I had got used to saying "Public Holidays," not "bank holidays." Was I wrong, were they right? That depends on how you look at it.

The Early May Bank Holiday, also known as May Day, is a public holiday celebrated across the United Kingdom on the first Monday of May each year. It marks the arrival of spring and historically celebrates workers’ rights — symbolised by Maypole dancing, fairs, and community gatherings.

There is a difference between Bank and Public Holidays; however, usually somewhat interchangeable. A public holiday is a common-law holiday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, including Christmas Day and Good Friday, which are of cultural, religious, or historical significance. A Bank holiday was created by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, which sets out when financial dealings can be suspended. Bank Holidays are proclaimed by the Monarch, whereas public holidays are confirmed by the Government.

There is no statutory right to a day off on a bank holiday. Often, employers do provide this time off.

If you would like to know a little more, I came across this great House of Commons Research Briefing where I have summarised the above: SN06170.pdf