If you’re trying to “watch” “The Archers,” you’re not alone — but it’s actually a radio drama, so that’s the whole point of listening. The good news is that it’s still free to follow, with more official options depending on where you live and what devices you use.
In Great Britain, BBC sounds is the easiest place to start. It gives you on-demand access to the latest episodes to catch up on, plus the weekly omnibus if you prefer to listen in one go.
If you like new episodes to appear automatically, you can also subscribe via regular podcast apps. This may be a more convenient route if you listen on a smart speaker or regularly switch between devices.
Things get a little more complicated if you’re outside the UK, as availability can vary by platform and location. If you’re stuck abroad, you can listen to “The Archers” anywhere with a VPN.
Below, I’ll break down the simplest ways to listen wherever you are.
How to listen to ‘The Archers’ for free in the UK
You have a few reliable ways to listen in the UK, completely free at the time of use:
BBC sounds: The main hub for “The Archers”, with the latest daily episodes available for streaming (usually for about 30 days).
Archer’s Omnibus: Do you prefer to listen all at once? The weekly omnibus brings together the week’s episodes in a single listen and is also available on BBC Sounds.
Radio 4 live: If you like to hear it as it goes out, you can tune in via BBC Radio 4, either on a traditional radio or through the Radio 4 live stream.
Podcast apps: “The Archers” is also available on major platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcastswhich can be handy if you’re already using them for other shows.
To use BBC Sounds, you generally need to sign in with a free BBC account.
Can I listen to The Archers outside the UK or when travelling?
Often, yes – but the best way to listen will depend on what’s available where you are.
For many international listeners, the most reliable option is to subscribe to a podcast app, as “The Archers” is available on major platforms.
You can also check for BBC web-based audio options, including the BBC Radio 4 live player, if you want to listen in real time.
If you’re a UK resident traveling abroad and you find that BBC Sounds is blocked, a VPN might NordVPN can help you access it as if you were back at home – but you should always follow the BBC’s terms and local laws.
How to access BBC anywhere with a VPN
If you’re away from the UK and BBC Sounds isn’t working, a VPN (virtual private network) can sometimes help. By routing your connection through a UK server, you can make it look like you’re back home, which can restore access in some cases.
TechRadar regularly tests VPN services and NordVPN is one of the strongest all-round options for streaming thanks to its high speeds and wide device support.
BBC Sound troubleshooting tips
If BBC Sounds still won’t play ball, try the following:
Check your login: Make sure you’re logged into your BBC account, as login is usually required.
Try a different VPN server: If you’re using a VPN, switch to another UK server – streaming blocks may be specific to certain servers.
Switch to a podcast app: If you’re outside the UK and BBC Sounds remains awkward, consider using a podcast app for everyday listening. For many people, it is the smoothest solution with the least friction.
Search for older episodes: Availability may vary. Some archive content may exist beyond the main 30-day retrieval window, so it’s worth exploring BBC sites and podcast feeds.
We test and review VPN services for legitimate recreational use. For example: 1. Accessing a Service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that Service). 2. Protecting your online security and enhancing your online privacy when you are abroad. We do not support or condone illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consumption of paid-for pirated content is neither endorsed nor endorsed by Future Publishing.
