UK Clocks Go Back on 1 November: Check Your Timers

Public Services Desk 2026-10-28 10:51 2 min read

A classic black and white analog alarm clock on a plain white background.

UK clocks go back one hour at 2am on Sunday 1 November 2026, returning to 1am as British Summer Time ends. Check alarms, heating schedules and any timers that do not update automatically, and allow for darker evenings when planning journeys or walks.

When UK clocks change in 2026

The change happens across the United Kingdom at 2am on Sunday 1 November. The clock moves back to 1am, giving an extra hour by the clock that night. GOV.UK lists the date and time for the end of British Summer Time.

Check alarms, heating and appliance timers

Devices handle the change differently. Phones and computers usually update when their automatic date and time settings are enabled, but that does not mean every connected device or household clock will change itself. Check the device settings or its manufacturer’s instructions if you are unsure.

UK Clocks Go Back on 1 November: Check Your Timers

Before bed on Saturday 31 October:

Alarms: Check your phone’s time-zone and automatic time settings. For a standalone alarm clock, confirm whether it adjusts for daylight saving time; set or verify the alarm manually if needed.
Heating controls: Review the clock and programmed heating periods on your thermostat or boiler control. A schedule may follow the device clock, but older or manually set controls may need adjusting.
Appliances and timers: Check plug-in timers, ovens, microwaves and other devices with a clock or timed programme. Adjust them if they do not update automatically.
Sunday plans: Check appointment reminders and any plans that depend on a particular local time, especially if they are stored on a device with automatic time settings switched off.

If a device is connected to an app, check both the device and the app schedule. A displayed time can be correct while a separate programme or timer still needs attention.

Plan for darker evenings and Sunday travel

The clock change shifts daylight earlier in the day, so evenings will get darker sooner by the clock. If you are walking, choose visible clothing and use a light where needed. When driving, take extra care around pedestrians and cyclists, particularly on unlit roads and at dusk.

Check journey details with your transport operator if you are travelling on Sunday. Services and timetables are set by individual operators, and a clock change does not guarantee that every schedule or display updates in the same way. Recheck your alarm, household controls and travel plans on Saturday night so Sunday’s extra clock hour does not catch you out.

Source: GOV.UK

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Source check Date and time

GOV.UK confirms that clocks go back at 2am on Sunday 1 November 2026, marking the end of British Summer Time.

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