History of the BBC
Explore the history of the BBC since its foundation in 1922 to the present day
Explore the BBC’s rich history - uncover the stories behind topical anniversaries, delve into fascinating objects from our diverse collections, or take a deeper look through one of our long‑form articles.
And tell us your memories of what the BBC means to you.
-
The One Show at 20
Getting the UK talking for two decades, The One Show has reached a milestone! Throughout August, BBC History celebrates 20 years of the iconic show through a rich archive of remarkable images, and memorable moments. -
Anniversaries
In August 1985, the Observer newspaper published allegations that BBC staff appointments were regularly vetted by the security service MI5. Read on to find out more. -
The Maida Vale Legacy
The BBC at Maida Vale has seen a vast array of performers, a diverse range of musical genres and countless creative individuals pass through its doors since 1934. Join us on a celebratory journey through broadcasting history. -
The Women’s Sport Story across the BBC
Throughout the Women's T20 World Cup 2026, we reflect on how women’s sport has been depicted in BBC content since the 1920s. Explore some extraordinary archive documents, images and rarely-seen footage here. -
Attenborough 100
Sir David Attenborough is 100 and to mark the occasion, BBC History has opened up the BBC Archives to bring you some extraordinary insights into the life of the legendary natural history broadcaster. -
BBC Heritage Trail
See the latest updates to the BBC Heritage Trail of blue commemorative plaques across the UK and the rest of Europe, marking major broadcasting moments and landmarks. -
Impartiality
The history of the BBC is littered with debate and discussion over impartiality which has often made headline news. Jean Seaton Professor of Media History at The University of Westminster explores a topic that's always live. -
BBC Directors-General
Matt Brittin is the new Director-General of the BBC. Our gallery explores the life and times of the leaders of the BBC.
Links
-
BBC Archive
Hand-picked and popular selections from the BBC archives. -
BBC Archive - Youtube channel
Hop aboard an audiovisual time machine, that will transport you back to the golden age of TV. -
BBC Programme Index
Explore the BBC’s historical listings information from 1922 to the present day. -
Connected Histories of the BBC
A University of Sussex-AHRC research project -
British Entertainment History Project
The UK's largest oral history collection of interviews with professionals from across the film, television, radio and theatre industries. -
BBC Memory Bank
Giving longstanding and retired staff the opportunity to write their part of the unofficial history of the BBC. -
BBC iPlayer from the Archive
The destination to discover the most distinctive content from the BBC's rich archive. -
Archive on Four
Brilliant stories told using archive from the BBC and beyond.
