About Banks in Northern Ireland
Historically the banks that operate in Northern Ireland are distinct from those in England.
They are able to issue their own bank notes, which although legal tender in the rest of the United Kingdom, still cause a raised eyebrow when trying to spend them outside of Northern Ireland.
This banking sector also keeps slightly different working schedules than the rest of the UK, and here the north is more in line with the south of Ireland. This is not surprising as the determination of 'bank' holidays predates the independence of the Republic of Ireland.
Note that most other businesses will be open today. In fact, stores may be busier than usual as the traditional New Year sales will be underway.