BBC switches off Radio 4 long wave service after 90 years

Radio 4 was the UK’s last remaining broadcaster on long wave before it was permanently switched off at 1am on Saturday (June 27).

The service, which began in 1934, was used to transmit messages during the Second World War and became home to Radio 4 in 1978.

The BBC said it was “coming to the end of its life” and maintaining the aging technology would require “significant investment” for a platform used by a small proportion of listeners.

A BBC spokesperson said: “We also work closely with organisations that support vulnerable audiences around platform closures, to ensure listeners are helped in a timely and sensitive way.”

The end of an era – After almost a century we said goodbye this morning to our great companion of the airwaves Radio 4 198 LW. I shall miss her warmth and crackle. Here’s the final sign off at the end of #theshippingforecast before she fell silent… ❤️ pic.twitter.com/REDuiNtpji

— Al Ryan (@alryanradio) June 27, 2026

BBC presenter Al Ryan described the long wave radio switch-off as “the end of an era”.

Ryan gave the final sign-off on BBC Radio 4 early Saturday morning, saying: “Although the long wave signal is fading into history this morning, the memories and connections it created will endure forever.

“We shall miss your warmth and crackle.”

How to listen to BBC Radio 4

Radio 4 will continue to be broadcast on FM, DAB, digital TV, and online.

The broadcaster confirmed all programmes would remain available, including long-running favourites like The Archers and Desert Island Discs.

The closure is part of the BBC’s wider strategy to invest in modern platforms and strengthen digital resilience in broadcasting.

Long wave radio has been relied on by listeners in remote areas, as well as by mariners and fishermen.

Before the shutdown, campaigners argued that the long wave provided an essential, non-digital national communication network.

Do you listen to BBC Radio 4? Let us know your favourite show in the comments below.