Here’s how to see the UK’s partial solar eclipse this weekend

Brits will be treated to an astronomical spectacle on Saturday 29 March 2025, as the moon’s passage creates a partial solar eclipse.

Some parts of Scotland will see up to 50 per cent of the sun’s surface covered. Further south, coverage will average 30 per cent between 10am and 12pm.

Weather forecasts at the time of writing suggest much of Britain will be in for a treat, with sunny spells and partial cloud coverage guaranteeing many a glimpse of the phenomenon.

Partial solar eclipses may seem rare, but total solar eclipses are a real once-in-a-generation event. The last total solar eclipse visible from the UK (or at least the south west) was in 1999, with the next occurring in September 2090.

SAN SALVADOR, EL SALVADOR – 2023/10/14: A partial solar eclipse is seen in San Salvador. (Photo by Camilo Freedman/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)SOPA Images/Getty Images

However, travellers keen to tick a total solar eclipse off their bucket list sooner than the end of the century might consider a trip for 12 August 2026, when Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain will descend into temporary darkness for a short while.

It’s important not to underestimate the power of the sun’s rays just because of the partial eclipse. NASA recommends wearing protective eyewear or a handheld solar viewer, noting that even looking at the sun through a camera lens, telescope or binoculars can cause eye damage.

Several spots across the capital are marking the occasion with special opening times and events.

Gordon Ramsay’s Lucky Cat at 22 Bishopsgate is putting on a special brunch to mark the occasion – just one of many events across the UK

Gordon Ramsay’s latest destination restaurant, Lucky Cat at 22 Bishopsgate, opens its doors earlier than usual on Saturday, inviting hungry astromoners to enjoy brunch as the partial solar eclipse is visible over London’s skyline.

The special sharing brunch menu includes sushi platters, egg fried rice with XO sauce and bottomless bao. Raise a toast, or multiple with bottomless prosecco for £40 per person – bottomless Champagne or cocktails cost £80 and £60 per person respectively.

Meanwhile, Hive has created a solar-powered recreation of Stonehenge for the occasion. Check out the eco-energy company’s pop-up from 10am onwards for an immersive viewing party with themed food and drinks. The family-friendly event in the grounds of Alexandra Palace is free to attend, with deckchairs, blankets and protective eyewear provided.