Clocks go back this weekend as UK returns to GMT - here's how to remember which way they change

Clocks will go back an hour in the UK during the early hours of Sunday October 27. This marks a return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Autumn brings pleasant comforts as the leaves change colour and mornings turn crisp - but it also marks the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST).

Clocks will go back an hour in the UK during the early hours of Sunday October 27. This marks a return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Brits will continue to stay on GMT until Sunday March 30 next year when clocks will go forward an hour later. But this Sunday the return to GMT means Brits will enjoy an extra hour in bed.

The Royal Greenwich Museums has shared an easy way to remember which way the clocks change. "Think of the seasons: In spring the clocks 'spring forward,' while in autumn they 'fall back;'"

Why do the clocks change?

Daylight saving is used to increase summer daylight hours in the northern hemisphere. When the summer is over, the clocks change back in the hope it conserves more daylight during the working day.

DST started being used following a successful campaign in the start of the 20th century that argued in favour of changing the clocks in the summer in order to avoid wasting time in the morning. Arguments in favour of DST include:

* More daylight in the evenings during summer months

* Less need for artificial lighting

* Potential for energy savings

* More time for outdoor activities after work

* Reduced morning commutes in the dark

Do clocks go forward at the same time every year?

No. Clock changes can go forward and back on different dates. Next year the clocks go forward on March 30 and back on October 26.

But in 2026, DST starts on March 29 and ends on October 25.

Are there any downsides to DST?

While the UK and many other countries observe DST and summer time, there are several arguments against it. According to Royal Greenwich Museums these include:

* Potential for disrupted sleep patterns

* Increased morning commutes in the dark during winter months

* Less daylight in the mornings

* Increased need for artificial lighting

* Potential for morning rush hour to be busier as more people leave later