UK Radio & Podcasts – Listen Online

On our online radio portal you can listen live to 1421 radio stations and enjoy 2516 podcasts. Listen anytime to music, news, and talk shows.

Radio broadcasting in the UK began in the early 1920s with the establishment of the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) in 1922. The BBC launched several regional stations, including 2LO in London and 5IT in Birmingham. In 1927, the BBC was nationalized and transformed into the British Broadcasting Corporation, expanding its services to include the BBC National Programme and the BBC Regional Programme.

BBC Radio: As the UK's public service broadcaster, the BBC operates numerous national and regional stations. Notable channels include BBC Radio 1, focusing on current popular music and chart hits; BBC Radio 2, offering adult contemporary music and specialist programming; and BBC Radio 4, known for news, drama, and discussion programs.

Commercial Stations: The UK also has a robust commercial radio sector. Stations like Classic FM provide classical music, while talkSPORT caters to sports enthusiasts. Virgin Radio offers a mix of music and entertainment, and Smooth Radio targets listeners over 40 with a blend of relaxing music.

Radio remains a popular medium in the UK. Stations continually adapt to audience preferences, with some, like Times Radio, experiencing significant listener growth due to comprehensive coverage of events such as general elections.

The UK's radio broadcasting sector is a dynamic and integral part of its media landscape. From its historical roots with the BBC to the diverse array of commercial and digital stations available today, UK radio continues to evolve, offering listeners a rich selection of content that mirrors the nation's cultural diversity.