When Do the Clocks Change in the UK? Complete Guide for 2026

Understanding the UK Clock Changes in 2026

As we navigate through 2026, it’s essential to know when the clocks change to avoid confusion and make the most of daylight hours. The clocks next go forward by one hour at 1am on 29 March 2026, marking the start of British Summer Time. Later in the year, the clocks next turn back by one hour at 2am on 25 October 2026, signalling the return to Greenwich Mean Time.

These biannual changes affect millions of people across the United Kingdom and remain an important aspect of daily life, despite ongoing debates about their relevance in modern society.

What Happens When the Clocks Change

They move forward by one hour in March, for what is known as British Summer Time, and turn back by one hour in October. When the clocks spring forward in March, we lose an hour of sleep but gain longer, lighter evenings. Conversely, when they fall back in October, we gain an extra hour in bed but experience darker evenings.

To help remember which direction the clocks move, remember the helpful phrase “spring forward, fall back”. This simple mnemonic has helped people worldwide navigate daylight saving time changes for generations.

The History Behind Clock Changes

The tradition of changing clocks has deep historical roots. It was first introduced in the UK in 1916, during World War I, as a way to make better use of daylight and save on fuel. The concept was championed by William Willett – an early promoter of British Summer Time and great-great-grandfather of Coldplay singer Chris Martin, who published his influential pamphlet “The Waste of Daylight” in 1907.

The main reason for this is to make better use of natural daylight during the longer days of spring and summer. The clocks are moved forward by one hour in the spring (typically the last Sunday in March) so that the evening daylight lasts longer.

Why It Still Matters Today

While most modern devices update automatically, the clock changes continue to impact our daily routines and schedules. The practice affects everything from sleep patterns to driving conditions, particularly in the days immediately following each change.

Despite ongoing debates about abolishing the practice, with the European Union voted to end mandatory clock changes altogether – but it hasn’t been implemented yet, the UK continues to observe British Summer Time. For readers, this means marking your calendars for 29 March and 25 October 2026 to ensure you’re prepared for the transitions and can adjust your schedules accordingly.