The clock change was originally introduced to make better use of natural daylight and save energy. In summer, we move clocks forward to shift daylight to the evening. In winter, we move them back to provide more morning light when most people are waking up.
An easy way to remember is the phrase "Spring forward, Fall back". In Spring, we move clocks forward one hour. In Fall (Autumn), we move them back one hour.
Most modern digital devices (smartphones, computers, smart watches) update automatically. However, some devices, particularly older ones or standalone appliances, may need manual adjustment.
The spring change can be more challenging as we lose an hour of sleep. It's recommended to adjust your bedtime gradually a few days before. The autumn change is generally easier as we gain an hour, though it may still temporarily disrupt sleep patterns.
In spring (March), clocks go forward at 1:00 AM GMT to 2:00 AM BST. In autumn (October), clocks go back at 2:00 AM BST to 1:00 AM GMT. The changes always happen on the last Sunday of these months.
GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is the UK's standard time zone. BST (British Summer Time) is one hour ahead of GMT and is used during summer months to make better use of daylight hours. BST is also known as GMT+1 or UTC+1.
While some countries are considering ending clock changes, the UK currently has no plans to stop. Any change would require careful consideration of impacts on business, health, and coordination with neighboring time zones.
When clocks go forward, any event scheduled between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM won't occur as this hour is skipped. When clocks go back, events between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM happen twice, so it's important to specify if you mean the first or second occurrence.