Bank Holiday?

I would compare a bank holiday to much like a Federal Holiday here. No issues with the tube or transport, obviously Banks and some businesses will be closed, I believe most tourist sites are open, maybe even more crowded.

As this is my first time in london I am planning to take a hop on/hop off bus tour the first day. I want to make sure I make the most of my time because I will only be in London for roughly 2.5 days. Is there a good group of sites that I could concentrate on during my first day (the bank holiday). Chris

I would expect "Sunday" service on rail and tubes. Although the Heathrow Express may be an exception to this. The tube will be running, but just not a frequently as a regular Monday. Pubs, restaurants and shops should all be open, likewise all regular tourist sites (and they may be busier than a normal Monday.)

I disagree, sadly, with previous posters. The 29th is the second day of the Notting Hill Carnival. Very significant changes and huge crowds (and after this month's riots I'm not sure I want to be there). The TfL adjustments are at http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/Nottinghillcarnival/ The Planned Works Calendar shows that while (whew!) the Circle and District will run normally, there will be the following disruptions in addition to the Notting Hill stuff: Part closure - Metropolitan line Monday 29 August, no service between Wembley Park and Uxbridge/Northwood. Replacement buses operate. Part closure - Northern line Monday 29 August, no service between Camden Town and Kennington via Bank. * * note that this means no Bank Branch in Zone 1. The stations not served will be Northern Line Bank Branch service between: Camden Town, Euston, Kings Cross, Angel, Old Street, Moorgate (closed on other lines too), Bank, London Bridge, Borough, and Elephant & Castle. Part closure - Victoria line Saturday 27, Sunday 28 and Bank Holiday Monday 29 August, no service between King's Cross St Pancras and Walthamstow Central. Rail replacement buses operate. Planned closure - Waterloo & City line
On Bank Holiday Monday 29 August, closed. I agree that generally sightseeing won't be affected except for additional crowds in the form of British tourists away from work.

Where can I find out when Bank hollidays are scheduled?

http://tinyurl.com/3edey5b

Bank Holidays are: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Timeoffandholidays/DG_073741