UK Clocks Go Back on 25 October 2026

Public Services Desk 2026-10-17 09:20 2 min read

Classic stone clock at the Tower of London during the autumn season.

UK clocks go back by one hour at 2am on Sunday 25 October 2026. The change affects people across the United Kingdom: mornings will become lighter earlier, while evenings will get darker earlier. Check manually set clocks and any scheduled commitments nearer the date.

When do clocks change in the UK in 2026?

The autumn clock change falls on the last Sunday in October. GOV.UK says clocks go back one hour at 2am, when British Summer Time ends and Greenwich Mean Time resumes. In 2026, that Sunday is 25 October.

The change takes place overnight from Saturday 24 October into Sunday 25 October. At 2am, clocks move back to 1am, giving that night an extra hour by the clock.

How the extra hour changes your day

After the change, daylight shifts earlier in the day. Sunrise and morning light come earlier by the clock, and sunset arrives earlier in the evening. The total amount of daylight does not increase; its timing changes.

That can affect routines such as waking up, travelling to work or school, walking a dog, and planning outdoor activities after work. If you rely on evening daylight, consider whether you need to adjust the timing of those plans as the date approaches.

What to check before 25 October

Most internet-connected phones and computers adjust automatically when the time changes. Some household clocks, watches, car displays and appliances may need to be set manually. Check the devices you rely on rather than assuming they will all change at the same time.

It is also useful to review early appointments, travel plans, work shifts or other scheduled commitments for that Sunday. Confirm the stated local time with the organiser or service nearer the date, particularly if a booking spans the overnight change.

The date and rule are set out on the UK government’s clock change page. Check it again closer to October if you need to confirm the timing for a specific service or commitment.

Source: GOV.UK

Context & actions About this article

Source check Government guidance

GOV.UK says clocks go back one hour at 2am on the last Sunday in October; in 2026, that is 25 October.

Checks