UK Clocks Go Back Tomorrow: 10 Important Things to Know Before 25 October 2026

Updated: 24 October 2026

Millions of people across the United Kingdom are preparing for the end of British Summer Time this weekend. On Sunday, 25 October 2026, clocks will go back by one hour, officially marking the return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Although the change means an extra hour in bed for many people, it can also affect sleep routines, travel arrangements, work schedules and everyday activities.

Here are ten important things to know before the clocks change.

1. When Do the Clocks Go Back in the UK?

The clocks will go back on Sunday, 25 October 2026, at 2:00 am.

At that moment, the time will change back to 1:00 am.

This marks the end of British Summer Time (BST) and the beginning of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

The UK government confirms that clocks go back on the final Sunday of October each year.

2. Do We Gain or Lose an Hour?

The good news is that the autumn clock change gives people an extra hour.

For example, when the clock reaches 2:00 am, it will return to 1:00 am.

However, gaining an extra hour does not automatically mean everyone will enjoy better sleep. Changes in routine can temporarily affect the body's internal clock.

3. Will Smartphones Change Automatically?

Most modern smartphones, tablets, laptops and internet-connected devices update automatically when their date and time settings are configured correctly.

However, some devices may require manual adjustments.

Before going to bed on Saturday, check the settings on your phone and other essential devices.

4. Remember to Update Household Clocks

Not every clock changes automatically.

Check the following devices:

Wall clocks and traditional watches
Kitchen ovens and microwaves
Car dashboards
Older alarm clocks
Heating timers
Some household appliances

Updating these devices can help prevent confusion on Sunday morning.

5. How Will the Clock Change Affect Sleep?

Even a one-hour time adjustment can temporarily disrupt normal sleeping patterns.

Some people may notice that they feel sleepy earlier in the evening or wake up earlier than expected.

Sleep researchers explain that the body's internal clock responds to daylight, regular sleep schedules and daily activities.

Helpful tips:

Maintain a consistent bedtime.
Spend time outdoors during daylight hours.
Avoid excessive caffeine late in the day.
Reduce bright screen exposure before sleeping.
Keep your bedroom comfortable and dark.

Most people gradually adjust to the change.

6. Will the Evenings Become Darker?

Yes. After the clocks go back, sunset will occur approximately one hour earlier according to the clock.

This means darker evenings across the UK.

Morning daylight will initially arrive earlier, although daylight hours will continue to shorten as winter approaches.

People travelling home from work or school may notice the difference immediately.

7. What About Travel and Transport?

Anyone travelling during the clock change should check their journey arrangements carefully.

This is especially important for:

Overnight train and coach journeys
Early morning flights
Airport transfers
International travel
Overnight work shifts

Always follow the time displayed on your official booking confirmation and check for updates from your transport provider.

8. Will the USA Change Its Clocks on the Same Day?

No. Most areas of the United States will end daylight saving time on Sunday, 1 November 2026.

This means the UK and USA will change their clocks on different weekends.

For one week, some familiar time differences between the two countries will be temporarily reduced.

For example, from 25 October until the US change on 1 November, London will be four hours ahead of New York instead of the usual five hours.

This is particularly important for international business meetings, remote workers and online appointments.

Some US states and territories do not observe daylight saving time.

9. When Will the UK Clocks Change Again?

After the October 2026 change, the next UK clock adjustment is scheduled for Sunday, 28 March 2027.

On that date, clocks will move forward by one hour as British Summer Time begins again.

The UK currently continues to observe seasonal clock changes twice each year.

10. What Should You Do Before Sunday Morning?

Preparing for the clock change only takes a few minutes.

Here is a simple checklist:

Check your phone's automatic time settings.
Adjust traditional clocks and watches.
Confirm Sunday travel arrangements.
Review alarms and work schedules.
Check heating timers.
Prepare children for changes to their routines.
Plan for darker evenings.
Confirm international meeting times.

These simple steps can make the transition easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What date do UK clocks go back in 2026?

Sunday, 25 October 2026.

What time do the clocks change?

At 2:00 am, clocks move backwards to 1:00 am.

Do we get an extra hour of sleep?

The clock change provides an extra hour overnight, although the amount of sleep you actually get depends on your routine.

Does my iPhone change automatically?

Most iPhones update automatically when automatic date and time settings are enabled and functioning correctly.

Is the UK staying on GMT permanently?

No. Under the current schedule, the UK will return to British Summer Time in March 2027.

Final Thoughts

The UK clock change on 25 October 2026 is an important seasonal event affecting millions of people.

While an extra hour may sound welcome, remembering to update household clocks, review travel plans and maintain healthy sleep routines can help make the transition smoother.

Whether you live in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow or elsewhere in the UK, preparing ahead of time can help you start Sunday without unnecessary confusion.

Sources and Further Reading