The UK will turn its clocks back on Sunday, October 25, giving residents an extra hour in bed as British Summer Time comes to an end. However, the change will also bring earlier sunsets and darker evenings, with some people welcoming the cosy winter months while others prepare to adjust their daily routines.

When exactly do the clocks go back?

The clocks will go back at 2am on Sunday, October 25, returning to 1am as the UK switches from British Summer Time (BST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

This means the hour between 1am and 2am will happen twice, giving people an extra hour overnight. Most smartphones and digital devices should update automatically, but traditional clocks and watches may need to be changed manually.

The clock change happens twice a year, with the clocks moving forward in March to bring longer evenings during the spring and summer months.

What does the change mean for residents?

Although the extra hour of sleep may be welcomed, one of the biggest changes will be the earlier sunsets. Evenings will become darker sooner, which could affect people travelling home from work, exercising outdoors or walking children home from school.

Mornings will initially become lighter, although daylight hours will continue to decrease as winter approaches. The shortest day of the year in 2026 will fall on December 21.

The UK will remain on Greenwich Mean Time throughout winter, with the clocks moving forward again on Sunday, March 28, 2027, when British Summer Time returns.

Residents share their reactions

While some people are already preparing for darker evenings, others have shared their excitement about the extra hour of rest and the arrival of the festive season. One resident wrote:

“It’s actually my favourite time of the year!! I’m excited! I’ve been looking forward to it LMAO.”

Another shared their appreciation for the colder months, commenting:

“I’m actually starting to like winter. Can get warm and cosy on the sofa with a cup of hot chocolate looking forward to Christmas!”

Meanwhile, someone else showed support for those who will be working overnight during the change, writing:

“Shoutout to everyone working night shifts!! Hang in there!!”

For night-shift workers, the repeated hour could mean spending longer at work, depending on their shift patterns and employer arrangements.

With the clock change approaching, residents are encouraged to check their clocks and prepare for darker evenings, even if the promise of an extra hour in bed is something to look forward to.