UK Clocks Went Back: Check Ovens, Cars and Manual Clocks

Public Services Desk 2026-10-25 10:12 2 min read

A pink kitchen timer mounted on a wall with colorful magnets in the background.

The UK moved from British Summer Time to Greenwich Mean Time on Sunday, 25 October 2026, putting clocks back by one hour. Many connected phones and computers adjust automatically, but check ovens, car displays and traditional clocks before relying on their time for a journey or booking.

The UK clock change took place at 02:00 on 25 October

GOV.UK says clocks go back one hour at 02:00 on the last Sunday in October. The change marks the return from British Summer Time (BST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Royal Museums Greenwich lists 25 October as the 2026 date.

The change applies across the United Kingdom. Devices differ, so do not assume a clock has updated just because it displays a time. Check the device itself and follow its instructions if it needs adjustment.

UK Clocks Went Back: Check Ovens, Cars and Manual Clocks

Check these displays on Sunday morning

Walk through the devices you use to plan your day. Internet-connected phones and computers commonly update their time settings automatically, while other clocks may need attention.

Oven and microwave clocks: Compare each display with a trusted time source and use the appliance instructions to change it if needed.
Car dashboard and infotainment displays: Check the time before setting off. Consult the vehicle manual for the clock-setting steps.
Wall, desk and alarm clocks: Adjust clocks that do not connect to an automatic time source. Check alarm settings too.
Other household devices: Look at any clock you rely on, such as a heating control or bedside display, and check its instructions before changing settings.

If a device’s time-setting method is unclear, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for that device. Avoid changing other settings while trying to correct the clock.

Confirm bookings and journey times before leaving

Check the time shown by the relevant provider for appointments, tickets, deliveries or other bookings. If the timing is important or unclear, contact the provider directly rather than relying on a clock that may not have changed.

Before travelling, compare your car’s display with a trusted time source and confirm departure details with the transport operator where applicable. The one-hour change can affect alarms and plans made around the early hours, so check both the device and the booking details.

Source: GOV.UK

Context & actions About this article

Source check Source

GOV.UK confirms that UK clocks go back one hour at 02:00 on the last Sunday in October.

Checks