The numbers
The clocks will go forward by one hour on the last Sunday in March, specifically at 1am on March 29, 2026, marking the start of British Summer Time. This change is designed to make better use of natural daylight during the spring and summer months, resulting in lighter evenings across the UK.
As the clocks move forward from 1am to 2am, many will experience a loss of one hour of sleep. The shift to British Summer Time will remain in effect until the clocks revert back one hour on the last Sunday in October, when daylight saving time ends.
The policy of Daylight Saving Time was first introduced on May 17, 1916, during World War I, as a measure to conserve fuel. The concept was initially proposed by builder William Willett in a pamphlet titled “The Waste of Daylight” in 1907, advocating for a systematic change to the clocks to maximize daylight usage.
During World War II, the UK adopted British Double Summer Time, moving clocks forward two hours ahead of GMT to further extend daylight hours. By June, London can expect up to 16 hours of daylight, significantly enhancing evening activities.
While the European Parliament voted in 2019 in favor of ending seasonal clock changes, the reform has yet to be implemented, leaving the future of Daylight Saving Time in limbo. Observers continue to debate the efficacy and necessity of these time changes, with many advocating for a permanent shift to British Summer Time.
As the date approaches, many will prepare for the time change, adjusting their schedules and routines. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the current system, but the upcoming shift is certain to affect millions across the UK.