Media

British entertainment is very diverse, with TV the technical aspect is a bit confusing. You have the regular 5 terrestrial channels, and then digital satellite, terrestrial digital, and cable providers as well. There is only one cable provider in each area. The quality and types of programs are as varied as they are in the US. You might have had a small sampling on BBC America, or on other networks, but there is some real quality telly here, with a fair amount of US programs in the schedule.

British soaps are less glamourous than American soaps, they’re average working class people, and the actors look like average people, and they are much more realistic, ie. hardly anyone comes back from the dead with amnesia. Eastenders and Coronation Street are the top two of the nations soaps. And, instead of airing in the daytime, they’re on in the evening.

I don’t understand why it’s called a watershed, but questionable programs, unsuitable for children, may not be shown before 9pm. There are links to more information about it at right. Be warned, after 9pm, the language and nudity run riot on the most channels (I say for those with children).

is quite good, there are several children’s channels, CBBC, CBeebies, Disney, Nickelodeon, Fox Kids, and more. You will find on the main 5 channels, that children’s television is hosted/presented by “VJ’s” of a sort, who do comedy, crafts, and wish children Happy Birthday.

The BBC is the biggest Radio station provider, with a handful of other local stations. You’ll find mostly pop music, but can find a bit more choice on some of the BBC stations, see the Radio Times or the BBC site for schedules.

Dance and Club music are the rage, but you will still find some Country and other music genres available too. You can also listen to the BBC stations on the internet. You’ll also find a huge array of gigs and music festivals all around the country, check the BBC Gig Info link.