“Are you aware that clocks in the UK undergo two time changes annually? Explore this useful guide to stay on top of time adjustments during your visit to London.”
When Do Clocks Change in London?
In the UK, clocks undergo two changes every year. They spring forward by an hour in March, marking the onset of British Summer Time, and they fall back by an hour in October.
To remember the direction of the change, a handy phrase is “spring forward, fall back.”
Why Do Clocks Change in London?
The idea of changing clocks was suggested by William Willett in 1907 to make better use of early morning daylight and have brighter evenings during the summer months. British Summer Time officially began in 1916 through an Act of Parliament. Since then, clocks have been moved forward in March, with only a few exceptions, such as during World War II.
When Do Clocks Go Forward?
On the last Sunday of March, at 1am, clocks jump forward to 2am. This shift is referred to as British Summer Time or Daylight Saving Time.
When Do Clocks Go Back?
On the last Sunday of October, at 2am, clocks are set back to 1am.
Clock Changes in 2023
In 2023, clocks will spring forward by one hour on March 26th at 1am and fall back by one hour on October 29th at 2am.
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Greenwich Mean Time serves as the foundation for international time, centered on the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London. You can explore the history of timekeeping and stand on the Prime Meridian Line by visiting the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
Clock Adjustments on Big Ben
When the UK transitions to British Summer Time, the Great Clock of Westminster in the Elizabeth Tower, famously known as Big Ben, is meticulously adjusted to the new time by the Palace of Westminster Clockmakers. During this operation, which takes place over a weekend, approximately 2,000 other clocks in Westminster are also updated.
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