The August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse will only be a partial solar eclipse for those of us here in the British Isles. The eastern parts of the UK will view about a 91% eclipse of the sun, whilst the south-west of Ireland will have a 98% eclipse.

August 12^th 2026 Solar Eclipse

A partial solar eclipse will be visible here in the UK on August 12th 2026

With just one week until the solar eclipse, it is time to consider where you will have the best opportunity to view it. As you can see from the map below, the British Isles fall into the area of only partial eclipse, but this rare event will be a memorable experience the whole family can share for years to come.

For the best view, I will be choosing the north-west side of the South Downs with a clear view all the way to the North Downs. Not everyone has access to such beautiful scenery but for city dwellers, the top floor of a car park or the stair-well of an office block or flats.

Wherever you choose, DON’T FORGET TO TAKE YOUR SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING GLASSES WITH YOU!

To order a set of solar eclipse glasses which conform to ISO 12312-2:2015 certificate, CLICK HERE

You’ll need solar eclipse glasses and filters for any optical equipment such as binoculars, telescopes and cameras. Here’s what to look for and best models to buy.

A certified pair of solar eclipse glasses is a good, low-cost way of safely observing one of nature’s most exciting events. Don’t risk the eye-sight of your loved ones for the sake buying a certified pair of solar eclipse glasses for everyone.

The International Organization for Standardization recommends only buying eclipse glasses that have the ISO 12312-2:2015 certificate, as these are certified as being safe for observing the Sun, including during a solar eclipse.

I am really excited by the prospect of viewing the partial solar eclipse on Wednesday 12^th August. I know it will not be as impressive as the total solar eclipse of 1999, but to see 90% of the sun obscured by the moon when the eclipse reaches it’s peak.

Overview

The partial solar eclipse will take place as the Sun is setting, and the Sun and Moon will become increasingly low on the horizon as the eclipse goes on. Getting to a high point with a clear view of the western horizon will allow you to see the whole event.

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon moves between the Earth and Sun completely obscuring the Sun. The eclipse will pass over the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, Iceland, Atlantic Ocean, Portugal, and northern Spain. During totality, you may view the Sun without proper eye protection, such as solar glasses. But during all other phases of the eclipse, you should only look at the Sun when your eyes are protected.

I have written more information about the solar eclipse on my other website, including a chart showing the timing of the event for many regions of the UK. Click here to read more: