When and how to see the UK’s ‘best solar eclipse in 30 years’

What can you expect to see the eclipse in all of its glory on 12 August

This solar eclipse is set to be the best in almost 30 years, with the moon expected to cover 90% of the sun. 

The last time the UK has come closest to this sight came on 11 August 1999, as millions gazed upon one of nature’s most unique sightings.

Yet again, millions of people will be wanting to catch a peep all over Britain, hoping for clear skies to witness the phenomenon in all of its glory.

What will the weather look like on that day?

People watch a solar eclipse from the deck of a ferry in the English Channel, 11th August 1999. Image: Getty

Unfortunately, the event is too far away to accurately predict weather conditions.

However, hopes have been raised as weather forecasters from the Met’s long term forecast. 

They predict that although some rain may start to pour at the start of the month, the conditions should “likely become mostly dry once again as we head toward mid-August.”

Met added that the conditions should be “dry and settled conditions look likely to dominate much of this period.”

This year’s solar eclipse will begin around 18:17 on August 12 in the London area, and closer to 18:23 around Manchester.

The phenomenon is expected to last an hour and 49 minutes, while its peak is expected to be around 19:13 (London).