More than half of UK employees have carried over annual leave days from 2024 into 2025, new research has revealed.
The study conducted by Trainline and shared with GB News found that 51 per cent of workers intended to bank holiday days for the new year, with four in five eligible employees following through on these plans.
However, time is ticking for many to use these saved days, as 60 per cent of workers report they must take their carried-over leave by the end of April or risk losing it.
The average worker has carried over three days of annual leave, though 14 per cent have admitted to saving up 10 days or more.
The most common reason for banking holiday time is to save for a longer vacation in 2025, according to 39 per cent of employees.
More than a quarter (28 per cent) of workers said they simply did not have time to use their leave days last year.
A further 22 per cent reported wanting to save their annual leave for quieter periods at work.
Family time tops the list of plans for carried-over leave, with 41 per cent of employees intending to spend their saved days with loved ones.
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Overseas holidays are the second most popular choice, with 34 per cent and rest and relaxation at home rounds out the top three chosen by 32 per cent of employees.
For Britons looking to use their time on a UK getaway, a rail ticket sale could help people travel for lower prices.
Sakshi Anand, VP of Growth and UK GM at Trainline, said: “The Rail Sale 2025 offers substantial discounts on train travel across thousands of routes.
“Whether you’re looking for a mini-break to use up your annual leave from last year or simply want to grab a trip at a bargain price, this offer is great news for travellers who want to save money.”
Rail passengers in London
PA
The Rail Sale has proven popular in the past, with travellers saving £5.8million during last year’s promotion.
Discounts of up to 58 per cent are available on routes across the UK, with significant savings on both short and long-distance journeys.
Notable discounted routes include London to Edinburgh, with fares reduced from £62.50 to £26.15.
Other significant deals include Liverpool to London Euston at £7.00, half the usual fare of £14.00.
Regional routes also offer substantial savings, with tickets offering 50% savings between the following locations:
- Ashford to Ramsgate
- Newcastle to Carlisle
- Liverpool to London Euston
- Nottingham to Manchester
- Leeds to Sheffield
- Aberdeen to Edinburgh
- Glasgow to Inverness
- Preston to Edinburgh
- London to Newcastle
