London is currently enduring a period of damp, cold, and notably dark weather, but a welcome milestone is just days away. The capital is set to experience its first 5pm sunset of 2026, offering a glimmer of hope as daylight slowly begins to extend.
Current Weather Conditions in the Capital
This week has proven particularly dreary for London, with persistent rain dominating Tuesday, February 3. While a brief respite is expected tomorrow, damp and drizzly conditions are forecast to return from Thursday onwards, maintaining the gloomy atmosphere.
Potential Wintry Weather on the Horizon
Some weather forecasters have even suggested the possibility of sleet in London during February. WX Charts has predicted sleet may fall over the capital on Thursday, February 12. The Met Office supports this outlook in its long-range forecast for February 6 to 15, indicating wintry weather could spread to southern regions.
A Met Office spokesperson explained: “A subtle shift southwards of these areas of low pressure is anticipated during the second week of February, which may allow a greater chance of colder air to spread across larger parts of the UK, including the south, bringing an increased risk of wintry hazards for a time.”
When Will London See Its First 5pm Sunset?
Despite the continuing rain, the days are steadily drawing out. According to BBC London Weather forecasts, Saturday, February 7 will mark the first 5pm sunset in London for 2026. This gradual increase in daylight will continue, with sunset predicted at 5.17pm by Monday, February 16, potentially allowing commuters to catch some daylight on their journey home from work.
Upcoming Clock Change and British Summer Time
The clocks are scheduled to go forward at 1am on March 29 this year, officially marking the start of British Summer Time. This change brings more daylight in the evenings and less in the mornings, a shift eagerly awaited by many, though some argue it can disrupt sleep patterns and exacerbate seasonal depression.
Full List of London Sunset Times for Early February 2026
Here is a detailed schedule of sunset times in London during this period:
- Tuesday, February 3 - 4.53pm
- Wednesday, February 4 - 4.55pm
- Thursday, February 5 - 4.57pm
- Friday, February 6 - 4.59pm
- Saturday, February 7 - 5pm
- Sunday, February 8 - 5.02pm
- Monday, February 9 - 5.04pm
- Tuesday, February 10 - 5.06pm
- Wednesday, February 11 - 5.08pm
- Thursday, February 12 - 5.10pm
- Friday, February 13 - 5.11pm
- Saturday, February 14 - 5.13pm
- Sunday, February 15 - 5.15pm
- Monday, February 16 - 5.17pm
As London transitions through this chilly period, the lengthening days provide a positive sign of the approaching spring, with the first 5pm sunset serving as a key marker in the seasonal shift.
