UK Clocks Go Back on 1 November: Check Home Timers

Public Services Desk 2026-10-28 11:01 2 min read

Close-up monochromatic shot of an analog wall clock face.

The UK clocks go back by one hour at 2am on Sunday 1 November 2026, returning to 1am as British Summer Time ends. Check any manually set alarms, heating schedules and appliance timers before bed on Saturday, and confirm Sunday travel times against the timetable or booking you plan to use.

When the clocks change in 2026

The change gives people an extra hour by the clock. GOV.UK confirms that clocks go back at 2am on Sunday 1 November. Phones and other internet-connected devices commonly update automatically when their time and date settings are set to update automatically, but the change is not guaranteed for every device.

Check alarms, heating and appliance timers

Before Saturday night, check devices that use a clock or schedule:

Alarms: A phone set to update its time automatically should adjust, but check its time zone and automatic date and time settings. Review manually set alarm clocks, watches and backup alarms. If an alarm is set for 1am, check how the device handles the repeated hour.
Heating controls: Check the displayed time and the next scheduled on and off periods on your thermostat or programmer. Update the clock if needed so heating runs at the times you expect.
Appliances and other timers: Review timers on ovens, plug-in switches, irrigation controls and security systems. Some connected products may update through an app; others may need you to change the time yourself.
Cars and household clocks: Check dashboard displays, wall clocks and any device without an automatic time setting.

For connected devices, check the manufacturer’s app or instructions if you are unsure whether the clock updates automatically. After the change, compare the device display with your phone or another trusted clock.

UK Clocks Go Back on 1 November: Check Home Timers

Allow for darker evenings and Sunday journeys

The clock change shifts daylight earlier in the day and brings sunset earlier by the clock. If you walk, cycle or drive later in the afternoon, plan for darker conditions: wear or use something visible, make sure vehicle lights work, and leave extra time if you are unfamiliar with the route.

Check Sunday train, bus and other travel details with the operator, especially for journeys near 1am or 2am, when the clock change takes place. Timetables and booking details are the best guide for a specific service. Before setting off, confirm the departure time and allow for any planned changes to your route.

Source: GOV.UK

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GOV.UK confirms the 2026 clock change; device behaviour depends on its settings and manufacturer.

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