31 atmospheric photos show the UK after dark, as night owls come out to play, from 1900s to 1990s

The nights are drawing in and, with the clocks going back, darkness will soon be descending even earlier.

For many people, the thought of winter approaching and the dark, chilly evenings in store is a depressing one.

But for others, there is something seductive about the long nights, with the landscape looking dreamy in the pale moonlight glow, and the city streets bathed in dazzling light.

This retro photo gallery is for the night owls among you, capturing after-dark scenes across the UK, from the dawn of the 20th century right up to the 1990s.

From the Blackpool illuminations to late-night swimming and the thrill of the funfair, these atmospheric photos show the nation coming alive after dark.

They capture the shift workers, putting in a hard slog while most of us are sleeping, and the lovers, enjoying romantic strolls under starry skies.

Whether you enjoy your extra hour’s sleep or it messes with your circadian rhythm, you might be interested to know the history behind daylight saving time.

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