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History of the BBC

Explore the history of the BBC since its foundation in 1922 to the present day

Explore more than 100 years of the BBC’s history – click on our interactive timeline or investigate a topical anniversary, unpack the story of fascinating objects from our varied collections, or go in-depth via one of our long-form articles.

And tell us your memories of what the BBC means to you.

  • Anniversaries

    29 March 1960 was a first for the BBC - the honour of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest. It came live from the Royal Festival Hall in London on a Tuesday night, and was presented by Katie Boyle. Eurovision expert Gordon Roxburgh looks back at the contests where the BBC stepped up to the challenge of producing the show. Image: © Southbank Centre Archive.
  • 100 years of BBC South West

    The last week in March 1924 was a major moment for listeners in south west England. Radio station BBC 5PY in Plymouth came on air and was soon making an impact with its mix of news, music and programmes for children.
  • Gardening on the BBC

    Spring is in the air and as the UK edges towards the warmer months, BBC History recalls some of the gardening landmarks of broadcasting.
  • Share your Memories

    Tell us your recollections of favourite programmes and seasons, and let us know what you would like to see more of in the future.
  • Objects of the BBC

    A clearer understanding of climate change through better environmental sampling - the BBC built MZ Environmental Sampler is just one of the fascinating items in our Objects of the BBC Collection.
  • Faces of the BBC

    As parts of the UK continue to experience an extended period of unpredictable wet weather, our latest Faces of the BBC image features forecaster Michael Fish in front of his famous weather map, one of many faces in our extensive photo collection.
  • Voices of the BBC

    From the BBC Oral History Collection here are the key personalities, producers, and innovators that tell the inside story of the BBC.
  • Timeline

    Our timeline brings together a selection of the BBC's best-known programmes and an overview of some of the many milestones that have shaped the corporation over the years.
  • BBC Exhibitions

    Look out for events and exhibitions showcasing BBC entertainment, science, and war programming, international broadcasting, and vintage radio and TV equipment.
  • Plaques

    The BBC Heritage Trail brings together newly commissioned blue plaques and existing plaque schemes to celebrate the buildings used for broadcasting over the decades. Also featured are plaques installed as part of David Olusoga’s landmark series Black and British - A Forgotten History, and the BBC Music Day plaques created for BBC Local Radio.

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