Which TV channels are free in the UK?
As the UK continued to grow throughout the years, TV became a confusing panel of available channels that largely depended on your physical address. Original free-to-air channels were given a consolidation, emphasizing the fact that live television was available without a subscription or satellite dish. Before streaming, individuals needed a regular television with a digital tuner (or antenna) to access the free channels. As technology continues to advance, so too does traditional analog television. In fact, users wanting to connect to free stations can access almost 100 channels and over 30 different radio stations, completely free of charge.
Accessing Free Channels in the UK
The free channels have varying options, depending on your physical location and internet access. Services are still available through free-to-air platforms, whether a set-top box or an antenna. Additionally, you can use third-party programs like Plex to stream free live content. Individual streaming services may offer different channels, but most will include a few key networks in their lineup.
How to Access Free Channels
The range of channels available to users still varies, but large networks still provide the vast majority of free content and programming. These networks include All 4, BBC, Channel Five, ITV, CBS, Discovery, and UKTV.
All 4
Possibly the most recognizable channel in the UK, All four was named after the fourth television channel available at launch. The channel operates across multiple platforms, with many channels accessible on third-party platforms. This network operates a movie, general entertainment, and lifestyle channel.
BBC
Known as the oldest broadcaster, this network has a diverse range of free to air channels. The original channel was BBC One, expanding to include every genre under the sun. Individuals looking for comprehensive coverage find BBC to host anything from kids’ content to news channels and everything in between.
Channel Five
Originally known as Five, this network is one of the newest TV operators in the UK free to air industry. This channel originated as a single option with two varieties (SD and HD) and is now owned by Viacom (the US giant). Viewers will find many imported shows on the channel, including NCIS, CSI, and Law and Order, along with several sports events not covered by other major networks.
ITV
Established in 1955, this channel remains a regional network for free to air channels. The network operates four main channels and a regional channel (depending on the region). Most channels cover general entertainment, drama, movies, and a dedicated kids’ channel.
CBS
The giant US network operates several free-to-air channels, with most content coming from the US. CBS drama focuses on popular drama shows, while CBS Justice brings action and legal focus to view. CBS Reality draws all reality TV into one centralized location. Finally, the Horror channel has all things spooky and scary for those viewers craving science-fiction fantasies or edge-of-your-seat entertainment.
Discovery
This international documentary network operates several free-to-air channels in the UK. It caters to those wanting lifestyle, reality, and crime series backed by additional channels. These channels also hold a large number of shows previously broadcast on BBC.
UKTV
As a separate network, UKTV is owned by BBC. It operates many popular channels on the free-to-air network, including the popular series “Dave.” Currently, this network attracts millions of viewers, with original shows, light-hearted attitudes, and dramas. An additional channel called Yesterday holds a strong focus on historical content, including classic TV shows and documentaries.
Using Catch-Up Services
All free-to-air channels currently offer a “catch up” streaming option for all viewers in the UK. These services are available at no charge, bringing previous episodes and on-demand content for those wanting to binge-watch series. Most third-party networks hold on-demand services, including prior seasons of popular television programs.