Millions of UK TVs to get 12 new free channels not available on Freeview

Millions of UK TV users are set to gain 12 new free-to-watch channels on Freely, a broadband-based platform from Everyone TV, with UKTV expanding its FAST lineup. The channels won’t be on Freeview and will run like traditional TV, with scheduled shows and ad breaks delivered over the internet. Eight of the new Freely channels are single-show feeds from BBC titles, including Antiques Roadshow, Bargain Hunt, Casualty, DIY SOS, EastEnders, Gardeners’ World, Holby City and Top Gear. UKTV says the rollout will begin before the end of the year but hasn’t provided an exact date. Freely launched in April 2024 and topped two million monthly users in July. Additional UKTV FAST services—U&Laughs, U&Transport, U&Real Heroes and U&The Past—also move onto Freely, bringing the total to 12.