BST (British Summer Time) vs GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
UK clocks late March through late October. Northern hemisphere summer.
UK clocks late October through late March. International time references year-round.
| Aspect | BST (British Summer Time) | GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) |
|---|---|---|
| Offset from UTC | +1 | 0 |
| UK clock setting | 26 March 2026 to 25 Oct 2026 | Rest of year |
| EU equivalent | CEST (Central European Summer Time) | CET |
| Programming reference | Europe/London with DST flag | Europe/London |
| Why we switch | 1916 Summer Time Act, energy saving | Pre-DST default |
Frequently asked
Are clocks going to be stopped from switching?
The EU formally voted to abolish seasonal clock changes in 2019, but implementation has stalled. The UK government considered following but currently has no plans. In 2026, the UK continues to switch twice yearly.
Why does the date 'spring forward' move?
It's always the last Sunday of March (forward) and last Sunday of October (back), so the calendar date varies by 1-7 days each year.
Frequently asked questions
Are clocks going to be stopped from switching?
The EU formally voted to abolish seasonal clock changes in 2019, but implementation has stalled. The UK government considered following but currently has no plans. In 2026, the UK continues to switch twice yearly.
Why does the date 'spring forward' move?
It's always the last Sunday of March (forward) and last Sunday of October (back), so the calendar date varies by 1-7 days each year.