World Radio Stations

BBC World Service: live stream & station guide

BBC World Service is a international news / talk radio station from the United Kingdom, owned by BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), on air since 1932. How to listen:

  • Global distribution via partner stations, online and historically shortwave
FormatInternational news / Talk
Founded1932
OwnerBBC (British Broadcasting Corporation)
HeadquartersLondon, United Kingdom
Websitewww.bbc.co.uk/worldserviceradio
LanguageEnglish
CountryUnited Kingdom

BBC World Service frequency & how to listen

BBC World Service is available on Global distribution via partner stations, online and historically shortwave. You can also stream it live with the player below.

Listen to BBC World Service live

Live radio from the United Kingdom, filtered to BBC World Service. Press play to start the stream — or clear the search to browse every United Kingdom station.

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History

The BBC World Service began in 1932 as the BBC Empire Service, broadcasting on shortwave to reach English-speaking listeners around the world. Over the following decades it expanded into many languages and became one of the most widely heard international broadcasters, particularly valued during periods when independent news was scarce in parts of the world.

Format and programming

The English-language World Service focuses on international news, analysis and discussion, with rolling coverage of global events and programs exploring science, culture, business and sport. In addition to English, the World Service produces content in dozens of other languages for regional audiences.

Reach

The World Service reaches listeners globally through online streaming, partner and rebroadcasting stations, and historically via shortwave. It is one of the BBC’s most international-facing services.

Significance

The BBC World Service is among the best-known international broadcasters in the world and a long-standing reference point for global news in English and many other languages.

Sources

BBC World Service: frequently asked questions

What frequency is BBC World Service on?

BBC World Service is available on Global distribution via partner stations, online and historically shortwave.

Which country is BBC World Service from?

BBC World Service is a radio station from the United Kingdom, headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It broadcasts in English.

Who owns BBC World Service?

BBC World Service is owned by BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation).

How can I listen to BBC World Service online?

You can stream BBC World Service live in your browser with the player on this page or on the official website, www.bbc.co.uk/worldserviceradio — free, with no app or sign-up needed.

Explore more radio from the United Kingdom, or go straight to BBC World Service’s official site.