UK Holiday Entitlement: How Much Paid Leave You Get
In this guide
Quick answer: Almost all UK workers are legally entitled to 5.6 weeks’ paid holiday a year. GOV.UK says that is at least 28 days for someone on a 5-day week, and statutory paid holiday is capped at 28 days.
Who is covered?
The entitlement includes agency workers, irregular-hours workers and part-year workers.
How much leave do you get?
| Situation | Entitlement (GOV.UK) |
|---|---|
| 5-day week | At least 28 days |
| 6-day week | Still capped at 28 days |
| Regular part-time | 5.6 weeks, which is fewer than 28 days |
| 3 days a week | At least 16.8 days (3 x 5.6) |
Do bank holidays count?
Employers do not have to give bank holidays as paid leave. They can choose to count bank holidays as part of statutory annual leave. Check your contract.
Irregular hours and part-year work
For irregular-hours or part-year workers, leave is accrued based on hours already worked, not a fixed number. GOV.UK has a holiday entitlement calculator that can work out the figures.
Common mistakes
- Assuming bank holidays are extra days off.
- Forgetting that part-time leave is pro rata.
FAQ
Is 28 days the maximum?
Statutory paid holiday is capped at 28 days. Your employer may give more under your contract.
Key takeaways
- 5.6 weeks is the legal minimum for almost all workers.
- Part-time workers get the same 5.6 weeks, which is fewer days.
- Bank holidays may be included in the total.
Related guides
- First 90 days in a new country
- UK employment contract basics
- UK payslip explained
- UK Skilled Worker visa guide
Last updated: October 2026. Employment rules change, so check the official page.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Holiday entitlement