The UK has left the darkest weeks of winter behind, with daylight hours steadily increasing. For early risers eager to see the sun before 5am, the wait varies by location. Using Ness Point in Lowestoft, the UK's most easterly point, as a benchmark, the first pre-5am sunrise is expected around May 14. London will follow on May 22, Edinburgh on May 16, and Cardiff on June 3, according to current forecasts.
The clocks will spring forward on Sunday, March 29, 2026, marking the start of British Summer Time (BST). This change means sunsets will occur later, but mornings will remain darker initially. The days will continue to lengthen until the Summer Solstice on June 21, 2026. After that, London will see its last pre-5am sunrise on July 14, Edinburgh on July 22, Cardiff on July 1, and Ness Point on July 23.
The practice of moving clocks forward in summer, known as British Summer Time, originated from a campaign in the early 20th century. Royal Museums Greenwich explains that the initiative aimed to help people in the northern hemisphere make the most of earlier daylight hours during the summer months.
