UK radio listenership reaches record highs of 51 million

It has been reported that radio listeners across the UK have reached a record high of 51 million people, marking an increase of over two million listeners since 2022. Since the digital launch of stations such as Times Radio alongside BBC spin-offs such as Radio 1 Dance, Radio Anthems and Radio 3 Unwind, there has been a driving force behind the surge. 

Though the BBC’s main flagship stations stayed constant or fell marginally, Radio 2 retains its position as the nation's most popular station by a comfortable margin. However, due to commercial spin-off channels, including Hits Radio 00s and Capital Anthems, audience numbers are further bolstered. 

According to research organisation Rajar, an average of 51.1 million adults aged 15 and above tuned in weekly between April and June, rising from 50.6 million in the preceding three months. Research organisation Rajar reported that an average of 51.1 million adults aged 15 and above tuned in weekly between April and June, rising from 50.6 million in the preceding three months.

Four years prior, the total only stood at 49.0 million between April and June 2022. The latest figures feature the first quarter-on-quarter comparisons for the BBC’s newest digital spin-offs, all of which enjoyed an increase in listeners.

Simon Pitts, chief executive of the Global media company – which owns the Capital stations- said: "Radio is delivering record audiences, with commercial radio thriving, and I’m delighted to see Global leading the way. The latest set of Rajar results underscores the strength of our radio brands."

The data also revealed that The Radio 2 breakfast show continues to be the most popular radio programme broadcast in the UK at that time of the day.

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said: "I’m delighted that Radio 2 remains the UK’s most popular single radio station in the UK. People are tuning in for over 11 hours each week, which is almost a four-year high. Congratulations to Vernon Kay, who hosts the UK’s most listened-to radio show with a weekly audience of 6.8 million, his highest figure since 2024." 

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube for the latest music and events content.  

Header image credit: Senna Doe / Pexels.com