Help Using the Site
Everything you need to know about using Stopped Clocks
How Stopped Clocks Works
Stopped Clocks is a community platform where people document, research, and discuss stopped public clocks across the UK. The site combines crowd-sourced photography with automated location detection and research tools.
📸 Document Clocks
Upload photos of stopped clocks. The site automatically extracts location data from your photos and places them on an interactive map.
🗺️ Explore by Location
Browse clocks on an interactive map, search by location, or use the tag system to find specific types of clocks or buildings.
🔍 Research & Analysis
Use automated research tools to gather information about buildings, historical context, and architectural details for each clock.
💬 Community Discussion
Add comments, share local knowledge, and collaborate on improving the information about each clock.
Posting a New Clock
When you find a stopped clock, you can document it for the community. The site will automatically extract location data from your photos and create a detailed post.
1. Create Your Account
Register for a free account to post clocks and access research features.
2. Take Quality Photos
Capture clear images of the stopped clock from multiple angles. Include some of the building or surrounding area for context.
3. Upload and Describe
Use the "Post Clock" button to upload your photos. Add a title, description, and any details you know about the clock or building.
4. Add Tags and Details
Use the tag system to categorize your clock (e.g., "church", "town hall", "station"). This helps others find similar clocks.
5. Research and Enhance
After posting, you can use the "Discover more" feature on individual clock pages to automatically gather information about the building, its history, and architectural details.
📱 Mobile Upload Tips
If you're using Chrome on Android and are having trouble with photo uploads:
- Look for the "ℹ️ Help" button when uploading
- Press the ellipsis (⋯) in the image picker
- Select 'Browse' to access your photos
Research and Analysis Features
The site includes automated tools to gather detailed information about each clock and its building.
🔍 "Discover More" Research
After posting a clock, you can use the "Discover more" button to automatically research:
- Building information and historical context
- Architectural details and style analysis
- Local significance and heritage data
- Related historical events and context
✏️ Editing and Collaboration
Logged-in users can edit and improve the research data:
- Click edit buttons next to specific data fields
- Add your own knowledge and corrections
- All edits are tracked with attribution
- Help build the most comprehensive database possible
💬 Comments and Discussion
Add comments to share additional information:
- Historical details you know about the clock or building
- Personal memories and local stories
- Updates if the clock has been fixed or changed
- Corrections or additional context
Troubleshooting Common Issues
🗺️ Map and Navigation Issues
Map won't load or appears blank
Allow location access when prompted, refresh the page, or check your internet connection. The map needs to load tiles from Google Maps.
Can't see clock markers on the map
Try zooming in or out, or use the search box to find clocks in a specific area. Some areas may have fewer clocks than others.
📱 Upload and Posting Issues
Can't post a clock
Make sure you're logged in. If you don't have an account, click "Register" in the top menu to create one.
Photos won't upload (especially on Android Chrome)
Look for the "ℹ️ Help" button when uploading, press the ellipsis (⋯) in the image picker, and select 'Browse' to access your photos.
Location not detected from photos
Make sure location services are enabled on your phone when taking photos. You can also manually enter the location when posting.
🔍 Research and Analysis Issues
"Discover more" feature not working
Make sure you're logged in. The research process can take several minutes - check back after a few minutes to see if results have appeared.
Can't edit research data
You need to be logged in to edit information. Look for edit buttons next to specific data fields on clock detail pages.
🌐 General Site Issues
Page looks broken or features don't work
Try refreshing the page, clearing your browser cache, or using a different browser. Check your internet connection.
Can't find a specific clock
Try different search terms, check if it might be listed under a different name, or browse the map view to explore by location.
Need More Help?
If you're still having trouble, email us at alfie@stoppedclocks.org
Tell us what you were trying to do and what went wrong.