UK Clocks Go Back on 1 November: Check Your Timers

British Summer Time ends at 2am on Sunday 1 November 2026, when clocks in the United Kingdom go back one hour to 1am. The change gives you an extra hour by the clock, but manually set alarms, heating schedules and appliance timers may need attention. Check your device settings and Sunday travel plans before the weekend.

When the clocks change in the UK

GOV.UK confirms that clocks go back at 2am on Sunday 1 November 2026, marking the end of British Summer Time. The time then returns to 1am, and the UK moves to Greenwich Mean Time for the winter period.

Many internet-connected phones, computers and smart devices update their time automatically when automatic time settings are enabled. That does not mean every connected device or schedule will behave as expected: settings, location, software and linked apps can affect how a device handles the change.

Check alarms, heating and appliance timers

Before Saturday night, check devices that rely on a displayed time or a programmed schedule:

• Alarms: Phone alarms usually follow the phone’s time setting. Check that automatic date and time are enabled, and review alarms on bedside clocks, watches or other devices you set manually.
• Heating: Check the clock and programmed periods on your thermostat or heating controller. Some systems connect to an app, while others need manual adjustment; consult the device instructions if you are unsure.
• Appliance timers: Review timers on ovens, plugs, lighting systems and other appliances. A device may keep its own clock even if your phone changes automatically.
• Smart home routines: Check app settings and any schedules that run at a specific time. If a routine matters, confirm that it is set for the intended local time after the change.

If you have plans early on Sunday, verify the time shown on the device you will rely on. Avoid assuming that a particular alarm, controller or timer will adjust itself.

Allow for darker evenings and Sunday journeys

After the change, daylight comes earlier in the morning and evenings get darker earlier by the clock. If you are walking, cycling or driving later in the day, plan for reduced light: wear visible clothing, use working lights and take extra care at crossings and junctions.

Check journey details with your transport operator if you are travelling on Sunday, especially for an early departure or a service that runs overnight. Timetables and travel arrangements are set by individual operators, so check the journey you intend to take rather than relying on a device clock alone.

A quick check on Saturday evening can help: confirm important alarms, inspect heating and appliance schedules, and review Sunday travel plans. GOV.UK’s clock-change guidance gives the date and time; your device maker or service provider can explain how its particular settings handle the change.

Source: GOV.UK