Time to Cherish, Bristol’s History and Mother’s Day

Tonight, the UK will 'spring forward' as clocks move ahead by one hour, marking the start of British Summer Time. This annual tradition brings longer daylight hours and the promise of brighter days ahead, a moment to embrace the energy and optimism of spring🌸

For Bristol, time has always held a special significance, before the adoption of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), Bristol operated on its own local time. The Corn Exchange clock on Corn Street still bears two minute hands, one showing GMT and the other Bristol Time, which was 10 minutes behind London. This quirky remnant reminds us of a time when the city's pace was uniquely its own, resisting the standardisation brought by the railways.

During the era of horse-drawn carriages, Bristol's streets were bustling with activity, and timekeeping was a local affair. The rhythm of the city was dictated by the clatter of hooves and the tolling of church bells. The Corn Exchange clock, with its dual time, became a vital reference for traders and travellers navigating the city's vibrant markets and thoroughfares. It symbolised a community that thrived on its own schedule, even as the world around it began to standardise.

Today, the Corn Exchange clock continues to stand as a testament to Bristol's independent spirit, connecting the city’s historical roots to its modern identity. While the clatter of hooves has been replaced by the hum of bicycles and electric scooters, the people of Bristol remain proud of their heritage and ingenuity. As the world moves ever faster, the dual-faced clock invites us to pause and reflect on the blend of tradition and progress that defines this vibrant city.

As you set your clocks forward tonight, take a moment to reflect on the history of timekeeping and the stories it tells. Just as Bristol once marched to its own rhythm, this clock change invites us to embrace the season ahead with renewed purpose and joy. On Mother’s Day, as we celebrate the clocks moving forward, also take a moment to honour the incredible women who move our lives forward with their love, care, and strength. Wishing all the wonderful mums a day as bright and inspiring as the spring days ahead, while the longer evenings inspire outdoor adventures, shared laughter, and cherished moments under the spring sky.

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Happy Mother's Day to All Mothers!