UK Clocks Go Back on 25 October 2026: What to Check

PS Public Services Desk 2026-10-24 10:42 2 min read

The UK clocks go back one hour at 2am on Sunday 25 October 2026, marking the end of British Summer Time and the return to Greenwich Mean Time. Check your heating schedule, alarms and any early journey before bed on Saturday; some devices update automatically, while others may need attention.

When the clocks change in the UK

GOV.UK says clocks go back by one hour at 2am on the last Sunday in October. In 2026, that date is 25 October. The change applies across the United Kingdom: 1am GMT follows 1:59am BST, giving the night an extra hour by the clock.

Check heating, alarms and smart-home routines

Phones, computers and internet-connected devices usually update their time automatically if they have automatic time settings enabled. Devices that rely on a manual clock, a fixed schedule or an older controller may not.

Before the change, check:

• Heating timers: Confirm the programmed start and end times on your thermostat or boiler controller. Check whether its clock updates automatically.
• Alarms: Review the time and date on standalone alarm clocks, radios and appliances. If you use a phone alarm, make sure automatic date and time are enabled.
• Smart-home routines: Check scheduled lights, heating, security systems and other routines in their apps after the change. Some equipment may depend on a hub or internet connection to update.
• Overnight work: If you work through the clock change, remember that the hour between 1am and 2am happens twice locally. Confirm shift arrangements with your employer if timing matters.

Confirm early journeys and appointments

The clock change can make an early trip feel confusing, particularly when a journey starts overnight or crosses the change time. Check your booking and departure time, then confirm it with the relevant train, bus, airline or other transport operator. Timetables and service arrangements are set by operators, so use their current information for your specific journey.

Check appointment reminders too, especially if they were arranged across time zones or entered on a device with manual time settings. If anything looks inconsistent, contact the provider before travelling.

Plan for darker evenings

After the clocks go back, sunset comes earlier by the clock, which can mean more journeys take place in low light. Allow extra time for evening commutes and make sure you can see and be seen: use working lights when cycling, wear visible clothing, and take care at crossings and on unlit routes.

For the official clock-change date and guidance, see GOV.UK.

Source: GOV.UK

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Source check Official guidance

GOV.UK lists 25 October 2026 as the date clocks go back one hour in the UK.

Checks

• The change takes place at 2am on the last Sunday in October.
• Check device settings because automatic updates vary.
• Confirm journey times with the relevant transport operator.

Source

• GOV.UK

GOV.UK Check clock-change guidance

Source

GOV.UK

Scope

United Kingdom

Updated

2026-10-24 10:42

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