Why Do the Clocks Change in the UK? GMT, BST and the Dates for 2027
Why do UK clocks go back in October and forward in March? The history of British Summer Time, GMT, and when the clocks change next.
Twice a year, the UK changes its clocks. They went back an hour on Sunday 25 October 2026, and they'll go forward again on Sunday 28 March 2027. But why do we do it at all?
GMT and BST: what's the difference?
- GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is the UK's time in winter.
- BST (British Summer Time) is one hour ahead of GMT, and is used from late March to late October.
An easy way to remember which way the clocks go: "spring forward, fall back".
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The rules
- Clocks go forward one hour at 1am on the last Sunday in March. You lose an hour in bed.
- Clocks go back one hour at 2am on the last Sunday in October. You gain an extra hour.
Why did the UK start changing the clocks?
The idea was pushed in the early 1900s by a builder called William Willett, who hated seeing people sleep through bright summer mornings. He suggested moving the clocks so people could enjoy more daylight in the evening. The idea didn't become law until 1916, during the First World War, when the UK introduced British Summer Time to save fuel and make better use of daylight.
Does changing the clocks still make sense?
People still argue about it. Supporters say lighter evenings in summer are good for leisure, shops and road safety in the evening. Critics say the change disrupts sleep, and that darker winter mornings can be risky, especially in Scotland and the north. For now, the UK still changes its clocks twice a year.
Tips for coping with the clock change
- Go to bed 15 minutes earlier for a few nights before the clocks go forward.
- Get daylight early in the morning to help reset your body clock.
- Most phones and computers update automatically, but check your car, oven and wall clocks.
Common questions
When do the clocks go forward in 2027?
At 1am on Sunday 28 March 2027, the clocks go forward one hour to British Summer Time.
When do the clocks go back in 2027?
At 2am on Sunday 31 October 2027, the clocks go back one hour to Greenwich Mean Time.
Do all countries change their clocks?
No. Many countries, especially near the equator, don't change their clocks, because their daylight hours change much less through the year.
Do I get more sleep when the clocks go back?
Yes, in October you gain an extra hour. In March, you lose an hour.
Related guides
- Why Do Leaves Change Colour in Autumn?
- How to Sleep Better in Winter
- How to See the Northern Lights in the UK
This guide is for general information only. Prices, rules and offers can change, so always check the latest details before you decide.
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