UK Clocks Change 2025: clocks go back in October

Your guide to the autumn time change

When and why the clocks change

In 2025, the clocks in the UK will go back one hour at 2am on Sunday, 26 October. This marks the end of British Summer Time (BST) and a return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

That extra hour might feel like a small gift, but it also marks the official end of British Summer Time and the start of darker evenings and shorter days.

The change was first introduced more than a century ago to make better use of daylight and reduce energy consumption. Whether it still serves that purpose is debated, but the twice-yearly change continues to shape how we experience the seasons.

Making the most of the extra hour

When the clocks go back, we all gain an extra hour. It's good for a slow Sunday morning. It's also a good opportunity to reset after a busy first half of term: a little more rest, reflection or planning can go a long way.

You might find mornings suddenly brighter, which can make early lectures or gym sessions easier. Evenings will feel darker sooner, so think ahead about your routine: walk home with friends if you are finishing late, or take advantage of daylight hours for studying, socialising or getting outside.

Adjusting to the darker evenings

The shift in light can take some getting used to. Many students notice a dip in energy or motivation as daylight fades earlier. Simple habits can make a difference:

• Try to get outside during the day, even for a short walk around Docklands or Stratford.
• Keep your room and study spaces bright and inviting in the evenings.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule so your body adjusts smoothly.
• Stay connected. Catch up with friends, plan group study sessions, or join campus activities.

If the darker days start to feel overwhelming, remember that support is available. UEL’s Wellbeing Service offers free and confidential advice to help you stay balanced and focused throughout the term.

A seasonal reset

The October clock change can feel like the end of summer’s brightness, but it’s also an opportunity for renewal. Autumn is a time to recharge before winter and to build momentum through the rest of the semester.

So when Sunday 26 October arrives, take a moment to enjoy that extra hour. Reset your clocks, reset your rhythm, and make the most of the season ahead at UEL.

When will the clocks change again?

This is the last change for 2025. The next shift will happen on Sunday 29 March 2026, when British Summer Time begins. That will end when they go back again on Sunday 25 October 2026. But that's a year away...