Weekly radio listenership across the UK has climbed to a record 51 million people, an increase of over two million listeners since 2022. Research organisation Rajar reported that an average of 51.1 million adults tuned in weekly between April and June 2026, up from 50.6 million in the previous three months.
The surge in listeners is being driven by recent digital launches, including news channels Times Radio and GB News, as well as BBC spin-offs such as Radio 1 Dance, Radio 1 Anthems, and Radio 3 Unwind. Commercial spin-off channels like Hits Radio 00s and Capital Anthems have also contributed to the growing audience.
While audience numbers for the BBC's main flagship stations remained stable or saw slight decreases, Radio 2 continues to be the nation's most popular station. Its breakfast show, currently presented by Gary Davies and set to be taken over by Sara Cox from July 6, remains the most popular radio programme during that time slot.