Clocks Change 2025 UK: When Do the Clocks Go Forward and Back?

Each year, the UK changes its clocks twice, moving forward in spring and backward in autumn. These adjustments, known as Daylight Saving Time (DST), are designed to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer.

In 2025, the UK will move clocks forward by one hour in March and back by one hour in October. This guide explains when and why the UK changes its clocks in 2025, the history of British Summer Time (BST), and how to prepare for the clock changes.

When Do the Clocks Change in 2025?

The UK follows the Daylight Saving Time system, meaning that clocks change twice a year:

1. When Do the Clocks Go Forward in 2025?

Date: Sunday, 30 March 2025
Time: Clocks go forward at 1:00 AM, becoming 2:00 AM.
Effect: We lose one hour of sleep but gain longer evenings as British Summer Time (BST) begins.

2. When Do the Clocks Go Back in 2025?

Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
Time: Clocks go back at 2:00 AM, becoming 1:00 AM.
Effect: We gain one hour of sleep but experience shorter daylight hours as the UK returns to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

These changes occur on the last Sunday of March and the last Sunday of October every year.

What Is British Summer Time (BST)?

British Summer Time (BST) is the UK’s version of Daylight Saving Time (DST). During BST, the clocks are set one hour ahead of GMT (UTC+1) to make better use of natural daylight in the evening.

BST begins in March when clocks go forward.
BST ends in October when clocks go back to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC+0).

This system allows for longer daylight hours in the summer evenings, reducing the need for artificial lighting and improving energy efficiency.

Why Does the UK Change Its Clocks?

1. Maximizing Daylight Hours

The clocks change to make the most of natural daylight, ensuring that people wake up earlier and experience more daylight in the evening.

2. Energy Savings

One of the original reasons for introducing Daylight Saving Time was to reduce energy consumption by decreasing reliance on artificial lighting and heating.

3. Economic and Social Benefits

Longer daylight hours in the evening encourage:

Outdoor activities (sports, socializing, tourism).
Retail and hospitality growth (people spend more time outside, boosting businesses).
Safer travel conditions (more daylight during commuting hours reduces accidents).

4. Historical Reasons

The idea of changing the clocks was first suggested by William Willett in 1907, who campaigned for longer daylight hours.
The UK officially introduced British Summer Time in 1916, following Germany’s adoption of Daylight Saving Time during World War I to conserve fuel.

How to Prepare for the Clocks Changing in 2025

When Clocks Go Forward (March 30, 2025)

The spring clock change means losing an hour of sleep. Here are some tips to adjust smoothly:
✅ Go to bed 30–60 minutes earlier a few days before the change.
✅ Gradually adjust your schedule, especially for sleep and meals.
✅ Use natural light exposure to help reset your body clock.
✅ Avoid caffeine and electronics before bed to improve sleep quality.

When Clocks Go Back (October 26, 2025)

The autumn clock change means gaining an extra hour of sleep, but the evenings get darker earlier. To adapt:
✅ Enjoy the extra sleep, but try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
✅ Adjust lighting in your home to prevent early evening drowsiness.
✅ Be cautious when driving, as darker evenings can increase accident risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the UK Clock Change 2025

1. When do the clocks go forward in the UK in 2025?

The clocks go forward on Sunday, 30 March 2025, at 1:00 AM, moving to 2:00 AM (British Summer Time).

2. When do the clocks go back in the UK in 2025?

The clocks go back on Sunday, 26 October 2025, at 2:00 AM, moving to 1:00 AM (Greenwich Mean Time).

3. Why does the UK change its clocks?

To maximize daylight hours, save energy, and benefit businesses, tourism, and safety.

4. Does the UK always change its clocks on the same dates?

Yes, the UK follows the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October each year.

5. What happens if I forget to change my clocks?

If you forget in March, you’ll be an hour late. If you forget in October, you’ll be an hour early.

6. Do phones and computers update automatically?

Yes, most smartphones, tablets, and computers automatically adjust to the time change.

7. Will the UK stop changing clocks in the future?

There have been discussions about abolishing clock changes, but no official decision has been made.

8. What countries do NOT change their clocks?

Countries like Japan, India, and most of Africa do not use Daylight Saving Time.

9. Does Scotland follow the same clock changes?

Yes, Scotland follows UK-wide clock changes, but its northern location means it experiences longer summer days and darker winter mornings.

10. How can I avoid feeling tired after the clocks change?

Gradually adjust your bedtime, limit screen time, and expose yourself to morning sunlight to help your body adapt.

Conclusion

The UK clock change in 2025 will take place on:

Sunday, 30 March 2025 (clocks go forward, British Summer Time begins).
Sunday, 26 October 2025 (clocks go back, Greenwich Mean Time resumes).

Understanding why and when the UK changes its clocks can help you prepare for the time shift and make the most of the extra daylight in summer. Whether you’re adjusting your sleep schedule, planning travel, or enjoying the longer evenings, being informed about the UK clock changes in 2025 ensures a smooth transition.

Quick Summary

🕒 Clocks Go Forward → Sunday, 30 March 2025 (1:00 AM → 2:00 AM, BST begins)
🕒 Clocks Go Back → Sunday, 26 October 2025 (2:00 AM → 1:00 AM, GMT resumes)

Prepare for the UK clock changes in 2025 with sleep tips, historical facts, and practical advice for adapting to Daylight Saving Time and British Summer Time.