UKTV adding 8 new FAST channels
October 21, 2026

By Nik Roseveare



UKTV, the commercial broadcaster, has announced that it will launch eight new FAST channels in the UK.

Going live before the end of the year, across LG Channels and Freely, the new channels will provide UK viewers with curated access to hundreds of episodes from popular BBC programmes spanning drama, entertainment, lifestyle and factual programming:


Antiques Roadshow on U
Bargain Hunt on U
Casualty on U
DIY SOS on U
EastEnders on U
Gardeners’ World on U
Holby City on U
Top Gear on U
The new FAST channels build on UKTV’s existing FAST portfolio of U&Laughs, U&Transport, U&Real Heroes and U&The Past, which will also launch on LG Channels and Freely. The launch of the eight new channels will expand UKTV’s FAST portfolio to 12 channels.

The FAST expansion has been led by UKTV’s commercial and platform teams and forms part of the broadcaster’s continued investment in free streaming across its partner platforms and streaming service, U, alongside continuing investment in UKTV’s pay TV services.

Jonathan Newman, Chief Commercial Officer, UKTV (and BBC Studios UK Region), commented: “The launch of these channels is an exciting moment for UKTV, helping us reach new audiences, unlock advertising revenue and grow our streaming presence through harnessing the power of great British television. We’re delighted to be launching with LG Channels and Freely for the first time.”

Andrea Amey, Chief Digital Officer, UKTV, added: “Our new FAST channels bring together some of the most loved brands in British television, from Top Gear and EastEnders to Gardeners’ World and Antiques Roadshow. By creating dedicated destinations for these programmes, we’re making it easier for viewers to rediscover favourite episodes and enjoy hundreds of hours of great content for free.”

UKTV noted that additional platform agreements are currently under discussion.