London is set to experience its most significant solar eclipse in over two decades today, Wednesday 12 August 2026. The deep partial eclipse will reach its maximum at 7.12pm, with the moon covering between 90 and 96 percent of the sun – the most coverage seen from the UK and Ireland since 1999. Favourable weather forecasts mean the capital should have clear views of this rare celestial event.
Eclipse timings and visibility in London
The eclipse will begin in London at 6.17pm, reaching its peak at 7.12pm when the maximum portion of the sun is obscured. The moon will then gradually move away, and the eclipse will conclude by 8.06pm. While London will not witness a total solar eclipse – that requires being in northern Spain or Greenland – the partial coverage will be dramatic, darkening the skies across the capital.
This event coincides with the peak of the Perseids meteor shower, which occurs overnight Wednesday into Thursday. Stargazers may enjoy a double celestial show, though the eclipse itself takes centre stage.
Best locations for eclipse viewing in London
For optimal views, experts recommend high vantage points with unobstructed sightlines to the western horizon. Several locations across the capital are particularly well-suited:
- Primrose Hill – Likely to be one of the most crowded spots, so arrive early to secure a good position.
- Parliament Hill – Offers views of iconic landmarks like the Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Gherkin while watching the sun and moon align.
- Royal Observatory Greenwich – The Flamsteed Astronomy Society will host a viewing session here, with normal admission fees applying. Alternatively, Greenwich Park provides open space for viewing.
Eclipse viewing parties and special events
Several venues are capitalising on the occasion with dedicated events. Horizon 22, on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, is hosting an eclipse viewing party priced at £25 for adults and £15 for children, including a glass of bubbly or a soft drink. Kioku by Endo at the OWO, featuring a terrace overlooking the Thames, will provide certified eclipse glasses to all dining guests on 12 August.
ZipWorld at the ArcelorMittal Orbit in Stratford offers two eclipse experiences: one includes a planetarium show, expert talk, and a ride down the tube slide; the other features an expert talk and access to the viewing platform. City Cruises London is also running an evening cruise with drinks, canapés, and live entertainment to view the eclipse from the Thames.
How to watch the eclipse safely
Looking directly at the eclipse can cause serious eye damage, and regular sunglasses offer no protection. Safe viewing options include making a pinhole projector, which projects the sun’s image onto another surface, or using special solar eclipse glasses. These glasses have a silver filter that blocks 99.99 percent of visible light and reduces ultraviolet and infrared radiation to safe levels. Crucially, glasses must be ISO 12312-2 certified – many sold online are not.
ISO-certified glasses have been in short supply in London, with most retailers sold out in recent days. For smartphone photography, a special solar filter such as Solar Snap (also ISO 12312-2 certified) is recommended, or you can place eclipse glasses over the camera lens.
After today’s event, the next full solar eclipse visible from the British Isles will not occur until 23 September 2090 – a 64-year wait. For those who miss this opportunity, it will be a lifetime before another comparable spectacle graces UK skies.
