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.
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.
The BBC and the General Strike
When the Trades Union Congress called for a General Strike in the UK 100 years ago, few thought of the BBC as a news organisation. David Hendy, Professor Emeritus, University of Sussex explores why that perception was about to change forever.
Natural history at the BBC
Natural history has an innate ability to inform, educate, and entertain says Jamie Medhurst, Professor of Media and Communication at Aberystwyth University. His exploration of the BBC Oral History Collection unearths some fascinating new perspectives.
Objects of the BBC
The camera Sir David Attenborough ordered into action when, as Controller of BBC 2, he brought colour programmes to the channel. The Phillips PC 60, as seen in July 1967. Objects of the BBC has more.
Faces of the BBC
This is a youthful Sir David Attenborough as seen in 1960, surrounded by cans of film. Faces of the BBC has more.
Building of the Week - BBC Whiteladies Road, Bristol
Bristol's Lord Mayor officially opened BBC Bristol's four studios at 23 Whiteladies Road on 18 September 1934 - it eventually became home to the BBC Natural History Unit. Read more about this former BBC building here.
Share Your Memories
Let us know about the BBC programmes that have engaged you over the years. What shows have brought you joy? What would you like to see more or less of? Do you have a favourite David Attenborough moment? Share your memories here.
BBC Directors-General
Matt Brittin is the 18th Director-General of the BBC. Matt, former President Google EMEA, takes over the role on 18 May 2026. 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.
