The Christmas and New Year bank holidays are officially behind us, and from today Tuesday, January 2 many people will be returning to work.

However, there's nothing like the prospect of a three-day weekend to keep you going..

Whether you are thinking of planning a little getaway or you simply miss having a lie-in, here are all the dates you need to know. . .

Am I entitled to paid leave on bank holidays?

According to gov.co.uk, your employers do not have to give you paid leave on bank or public holidays.

If you claim benefits, the bank holidays might also affect how and when you are paid, but you can keep up-to-date with this information throughout the year here .

If a bank holiday is on a weekend, a substitute weekday becomes a bank holiday, usually it is the following Monday.

2018 bank holidays:

Good Friday, March 30

Easter Monday, April 2

Early May bank holiday, May 7

Spring bank holiday, May 28

Summer bank holiday, August 27

Christmas Day, December 25

Boxing Day, December 26