UK to witness best solar eclipse since 1999 on August 12

What Happened

The United Kingdom is set to observe its most substantial partial solar eclipse since 1999 on the evening of Wednesday, August 12, 2026. This celestial event will be visible across the entire country, with the Moon obscuring up to 96% of the Sun's disc in certain locations. The peak coverage is expected between 18:58 and 19:15 BST, varying by region.

While the UK experiences a partial eclipse, other areas, including northern Spain, Greenland, Iceland, Portugal, and Russia, will witness a total solar eclipse. Spain is anticipating hundreds of thousands of visitors for the total eclipse, with clear skies expected in cities like Bilbao, Valencia, and Palma.

Key Facts

• The UK will see its fullest solar eclipse since 1999, with up to 96% of the Sun obscured.
• The event is visible across the whole of the UK, with peak coverage between 18:58 and 19:15 BST.
• Devon, Cornwall, and western Pembrokeshire are predicted to have the fullest views, with 94% to 96% coverage.
• Northern Spain, Greenland, Iceland, Portugal, and Russia will experience a total solar eclipse.
• Spain expects half a million visitors for the total eclipse event.
• Eclipse glasses are in high demand, with some retailers reporting sold-out stock.
• Weather forecasts predict clear skies for much of the UK, though cloud is possible in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northern England.
• The Royal Observatory Greenwich will live stream the event online.

Background

This near-total eclipse offers the best viewing opportunity in the UK for the next 50 years, with the next comparable event not expected until 2081. The Royal Observatory Greenwich will provide a live stream of the eclipse, featuring expert commentary from astronomer Dr. Greg Brown.

Safety warnings are in place, advising the public not to look directly at the Sun without specialist viewing glasses. The demand for these glasses has led to stock shortages in some areas.