Since the rise of hybrid working in the UK, many professionals have been asking the same question: how many days in the office is actually ideal? With more companies offering flexible work arrangements, striking the right balance between home and office can make a big difference to your productivity, wellbeing, and career.
In this article, we explore the best hybrid work schedule based on recent research, employee preferences, and practical tips to help you design a routine that truly works for you.
What is a hybrid work schedule?
A hybrid work schedule typically means splitting your working week between home and the office. The most common hybrid patterns in the UK are:
- 2 days in the office, 3 days from home (popular for balancing collaboration with flexibility)
- 3 days in the office, 2 days from home (favoured by companies wanting more in-person connection)
- 1 anchor day in the office (for highly flexible workplaces)
- Full flexibility with no set days (the most autonomous but less structured)
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but data shows some patterns are emerging as favourites.
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What does the research say about hybrid working?
According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), the most popular hybrid pattern in 2025 remains two or three days in the office per week. This schedule provides enough in-person interaction to feel connected to colleagues while still giving workers the flexibility to focus from home.
Studies by think tanks like CIPD have shown that two office days is often the “sweet spot” for maintaining team culture, collaboration, and spontaneous idea-sharing without the exhaustion of a daily commute.
Pros and cons of different hybrid schedules
When it comes to choosing the right hybrid work routine, each schedule comes with its own set of benefits and trade-offs. Many hybrid workers find that spending two days in the office and three days working from home offers a well-rounded balance, giving them dedicated focus time at home while staying connected to their team. It can also help with work-life balance, particularly for those with long commutes. Some professionals opt for three days in the office and two at home, which can provide more in-person collaboration and visibility – useful for certain industries or roles that rely on regular face-to-face interaction. Others prefer just one day in the office, maximising flexibility and reducing commuting costs, though it’s worth considering whether this might make it harder to stay involved in the informal networking moments that can support career progression. Meanwhile, some companies now offer complete flexibility with no fixed office days, which can work well for highly independent roles but may require extra effort to stay visible and connected. Ultimately, fewer office days don’t automatically limit career growth, but it’s important to be proactive about building relationships and maintaining visibility if you opt for a highly remote setup.
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How to choose the best hybrid work schedule for you
When deciding how many days to be in the office, consider these factors:
Commute time – A long journey? Fewer days in the office could make life easier.
Team expectations – Some roles need more face-to-face time.
Home working setup – If your home office is comfortable, fewer office days could be ideal.
Career goals – If you’re early in your career or aiming for promotion, more in-office days can build visibility.
Wellbeing – Consider what makes you feel more balanced: social interaction or home comforts?
For many UK professionals, two to three days a week in the office is proving to be the most effective hybrid schedule. It offers balance: enough time to build relationships and stay visible at work, while protecting personal time, reducing commuting stress, and improving work-life balance.
Ultimately, the best hybrid work schedule is the one that supports your lifestyle, productivity, and career ambitions. If you have flexibility, don’t be afraid to experiment and advocate for what works best for you.
The Hattie 