The UK is preparing for its annual time change as clocks go back by one hour on Sunday, 26 October 2025. This shift marks the end of British Summer Time (BST) and the return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), a change that has been observed for over a century. While this offers an extra hour of sleep for many, it comes with both benefits and challenges for individuals and businesses alike.
As the UK moves from BST to GMT, the adjustment is part of a long-standing tradition rooted in energy conservation and daylight maximisation. However, this semi-annual clock change sparks debates on its necessity and impact on modern life.
The End of British Summer Time: What’s Changing?
For most people, the time change represents a welcomed extra hour of sleep, but the shift has broader implications. According to historical records, the concept of shifting the clocks to make better use of daylight first emerged during World War I, with Germany adopting it in 1916. The UK followed shortly after. Over the years, the practice of adjusting the clocks has been refined, but its core purpose remains: to reduce fuel consumption by extending daylight into the evening.
The clocks will revert to GMT at 2:00 AM on Sunday, 26 October 2025, signalling the end of British Summer Time (BST). This means that the UK will have one hour less of daylight in the evenings, while mornings will experience brighter daylight. While the clock change provides some additional evening light during the summer months, it also signals the darker days ahead. For many, the impact is most noticeable as the evenings grow longer and sunsets occur earlier.
This clock change is also an opportunity for businesses that operate late at night, such as bars or clubs, to potentially extend their hours. However, the disruption to sleep patterns can be particularly challenging for those who work night shifts, as they will need to stay at their posts for an additional hour.
The Global Debate on Daylight Saving Time
The UK’s switch to GMT is part of a broader global discussion about the continued relevance of Daylight Saving Time (DST). Many countries in North America and Europe still observe the clock change, but not everyone agrees on its benefits. Critics argue that it no longer serves its original purpose, especially with modern advancements in energy efficiency and the rise of digital technologies that adjust time automatically.
Despite debates about its impact, there remains strong public and governmental support for maintaining the system. Proponents argue that longer daylight hours improve productivity, reduce road accidents, and benefit mental health. However, there are also concerns about the negative effects, particularly in northern regions like Scotland, where dark mornings could disrupt travel and schooling during the winter months.
