📍 🇬🇧 UK
BBC Radio 4 Extra
About BBC Radio 4 Extra
BBC Radio 4 Extra is a BBC-owned digital radio station in the UK built almost entirely around the corporation’s spoken-word archive, broadcasting comedy, drama, and documentary programmes, and streaming free online at bbc.co.uk/radio4extra.
The archive angle is what makes it genuinely different. Where most stations fill their schedule with new material, Radio 4 Extra exists to surface decades of BBC audio that would otherwise sit unheard. Classic comedy, radio drama, documentary series, all of it pulled from the BBC’s back catalogue and given another airing. It is the sister station of Radio 4, and it also picks up extended cuts and companion programmes to things currently running there, plus a catch-up function for selected shows.
If you already listen to Radio 4 and find yourself wanting more, or you stumbled onto an old series someone recommended, this is almost certainly where you will find it. The stream is free, no subscription needed.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I listen to BBC Radio 4 Extra?
Stream it online at bbc.co.uk/radio4extra or through the BBC Sounds app. It's a digital station available to listeners in the UK.
Is BBC Radio 4 Extra free to listen to?
Yes. The BBC funds Radio 4 Extra through the licence fee, so there's no subscription charge.
What kind of programmes does BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast?
Mostly comedy, drama, and documentaries. Most of what you hear is archived repeats from the BBC's spoken-word collection, plus extended versions and companion shows to Radio 4.
Is BBC Radio 4 Extra the same as BBC Radio 4?
No. Radio 4 Extra is the sister station. It focuses on repeats and archive material, while Radio 4 broadcasts new and live programming.
What language is BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast in?
English. It's a UK station aimed at English-speaking audiences.
Can I catch up on programmes I missed?
Yes. Radio 4 Extra offers a catch-up service for certain Radio 4 programmes, so you can listen on demand through the BBC Sounds app or website.
Station info
Country
🇬🇧 UK
Format
UNKNOWN
Language
english
Status
🟢 Live