Have the clocks gone back

Time Travel: Why the Balmoral Hotel Clock Tower Always Tick-Tocks Ahead!

Ever wondered why the Balmoral Hotel clock is forever ahead? Roll back the clocks, but this landmark stays fast!

As we wave farewell to British Summer Time and embrace the crispness of Autumn, everyone across the UK is gearing up to roll their clocks back to GMT this Sunday morning. But while most of us will be syncing our time to schedule our Sunday roast, one clock in the Scottish capital will continue to perplex passersby by being set far too fast. That’s right; the iconic clock tower of the Balmoral Hotel is infamous for its cheeky habit of running ahead of time, and it’s been doing so for over a century!

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the Balmoral Hotel’s clock tower has become a historic landmark, watched over by locals and tourists alike. As much as people admire its Victorian elegance and striking architecture, they often find themselves scratching their heads as they glance at the bold numbers staring back at them – ahead by a whopping 3 minutes! It's a delightful quirk that adds a sprinkle of charm to the stunning hotel. Rumour has it that the decision to set the clock fast dates back to the days when train schedules were rigid, compelling the hotel to ensure its guests were never late for their departures.

However, unlike your ever-efficient smartphone, which updates itself with precision like an eager puppy, the Balmoral clock’s timekeeping is steadfast in its quirks. Over the years, this mini-mystery has spurred locals to lend it a character – a character rather befitting of a fine Edinburgh dram! Despite its constant hustle, the truth remains that a true Scotsman can’t be late - especially when they’re headed to the pub!

It’s quite astonishing to think a simple clock can evoke such fondness among the public. The Balmoral Hotel has hosted numerous famous faces, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, adding layers to its legacy. So next time you find yourself wandering the lovely streets of Edinburgh, make sure to admire this iconic clock tower. Just remember, while you may be adjusting your watch after the clocks have gone back, the Balmoral clock will still be trying to pull you a little ahead into your next adventure!

Did you know that daylight saving time, as we know it, was first proposed by Benjamin Franklin? However, it didn’t officially start until the 20th century during World War I to conserve fuel. And speaking of quirky clocks, there’s another one not too far away in London – the Big Ben, which also has its own fascinating history and plenty of timely tales to tell. So whether you’re a clock aficionado or a casual observer, next time you glance at a clock, take a moment to appreciate the story behind it!