The UK is currently experiencing a summer of spectacular celestial events, from the Perseid meteor shower, to a rare planetary parade. But what’s even more exciting is actually set to happen just before darkness falls, as the most spectacular solar eclipse graces our skies this week, and is set to put on an unforgettable show.
What makes the 2026 Solar Eclipse Special?
So why should we be paying attention to the sky this week, and what makes the solar eclipse so impressive? Astrophysicist and astronomer Dr Mark Gallaway explains: “On the evening of 12th August, the UK will see its best solar eclipse until 2090, with the Moon covering up to 95% of the Sun. The eclipse will be total in Iceland and Spain, but only partial in the UK. However, it is the best eclipse since the total eclipse seen in Cornwall in 1999, except for a very short annular eclipse seen at the far tip of Scotland in 2003.” making it an undeniably important event.
Where to see the eclipse in the UK?
This eclipse is very late in the day, starting around 6:17 pm local time and ending at 8:06 pm, although the exact timing depends on your location. This means that the Sun will be low on the horizon. Dr Mark explains: “If you want to see the eclipse, you need a good view of the western horizon. Additionally, the closer you are to the line of totality (the strip along the Earth where the Moon will completely cover the Sun), the better the view will be.”
According to Dr Mark, this means that for the UK, the eclipse is best viewed in the South West and especially high locations, for example: Exmoor, the Isles of Scilly, Dartmoor, Gower, St Davids, and other coastal locations such as Plymouth seafront. The most important thing is that, as the eclipse is not going to be total from the UK, you will need to be able to see the western horizon, as you need to see the sunset.
So perhaps consider a trial run early this week at your chosen destination to make sure that you have the best possible view ahead of the big event. You can then make any necessary adjustments ahead of time.
What is the exact timeline for the solar eclipse 2026 for UK residents?
According to Royal Observatory Greenwich, the exact timeline for the eclipse on 12 August 2026 eclipse in the UK is:
- 18.17 BST – First contact – the eclipse begins
- 19.13 BST – Maximum eclipse
- 20.06 BST – Eclipse ends
- 20.28 BST – Sunset
If for any reason you are unable to get out and about to experience this event, from 18.10 BST, two live streams will be broadcast from the roof of Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory. On the Royal Observatory Greenwich’s YouTube channel, the eclipse will be viewed alongside commentary from two of the Observatory’s astronomers.
Don’t forget your eclipse glasses
If you intend to venture out and find your perfect viewing spot for the 2026 solar eclipse, it is important to ensure that your eyes are fully protected. Dr Mark explains: “As the eclipse is not total from the UK, there is no point at which it is safe to look at the eclipse without eye protection. This means you must wear dedicated eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses are not suitable as they do not offer enough protection. You can buy eclipse glasses online, but make sure they meet ISO 12312-2 (or ISO 12312-2:2015).” You can find more tips on protecting your eyes during the solar eclipse in our dedicated article.
For those wishing to take photographs, the camera will also need to be protected with a solar filter: “Make sure the camera body shades your eyes and that you only use the screen to compose the image. If you have a DSLR, please don’t use the optical viewfinder, as this will cause severe eye damage.” So when it comes to photography, planning ahead to ensure that you have the right knowledge is essential,” says Mark.
