The best online radio stations you’ve never heard of in the UK: A guide to hidden gems

Online radio is a good source of everything from local news and updates to entertaining shows and music.

With a station that provides what you seek, you can stay updated, unwind after a stressful day, or even learn something new.

But to enjoy the full perks of listening to online radio stations, you must tune in to stations that go above and beyond. Not just run-of-the-mill stations offering repetitive playlists, overly commercial content, and shallow coverage.

Below is a list of 5 outstanding UK online radio stations that push the limits. They may be little-known, but their commitment to offering exceptional shows, music, and news updates is unquestionable. Peruse the list and pick a station to keep you entertained as you go about your day, use the most generous and popular casino bonuses, play your favorite online games, commute to work, etc.

• NTS Radio

NTS Radio, dedicated to total freedom of expression, started in April 2011 as a DIY project. It was founded by Femi Adeyemi, a former London DJ, in Hackney, London. Despite being based in the Big Smoke, NTS caters to various people by playing music with roots in over 80 global cities. If you like sampling music from around the globe, listen to NTS radio.

By the way, NTS stands for Nuts to Soup, a fascinating name for a radio station. As you may already know, nuts to soup is a popular phrase from the beginning to the end. In addition to having an exciting name and playing good music, NTS helps artists develop and broadcast creative projects like electronic auteurs and clothing collections.

• Soho Radio

Soho Radio is an online station that broadcasts live from New York and London. It was founded in 2014 by Finlay Morton, Adrian Meehan, and Daniel Gray. As of 2024, this radio station is a favorite for over 200,000 listeners who tune in each month.

Listening to Soho Radio is worth considering for a variety of reasons. First, this station broadcasts over 250 live shows monthly, so you’ll always be entertained. When it comes to music, Soho Radio plays everything from soul and jazz to ambient, boogie, and psychedelic. The best part is that this station has no set playlists, which gives its presenters uninterrupted freedom and the opportunity to go above and beyond.

• Worldwide FM

Worldwide, FM prides itself on its dedication to using music and culture to spotlight marginalized voices, share progressive values, and offer alternative perspectives. Created less than a decade ago, Worldwide FM has captivated thousands of hearts in the UK and beyond.

When listening to Worldwide FM, you’ll sample and listen to stories and subcultures from diverse regions, from London, Brussels, and Detroit to Mumbai, Istanbul, Kyoto, and more. This is the right station for Brits who want to taste everything global creativity offers.

• Subtle Radio

Are you a fan of youth culture and underground music? Tuning in to Subtle Radio should be a top priority. This community-led, independent station broadcasts from Hackney, London. It’s run by 60 volunteers and is committed to helping established and emerging presenters and DJs showcase their talents.

Subtle FM is ad-free, so rest assured that countless advertisements won’t ruin your listening experience. Plus, it’s hosted by individuals who love music and presenting, unlike some stations that employ run-of-the-mill presenters and DJs who are only after a paycheck.

• Balamii Radio

From heavy workloads and job insecurity to rising debt, family conflicts, and illness, modern man is exposed to many stressors. But don’t worry. After a hectic day, you can relax with Balamii Radio. This is a South London radio station whose main objective is to soothe and calm listeners with splendid music.

The station started as a mobile app for playing recorded mixes. But it’s now a thriving radio station and community hub for the vast pool of creative minds in South London. If you are a music enthusiast, listening to Balamii will be a gift that will keep on giving. The station plays music from different genres, from jazz, electro, and amapiano to grime, salsa, drill, etc.   

Tune in to the best hidden gems in the UK today

There you have it: a comprehensive list of excellent online radio stations in the UK. Pick the right station to listen to based on the type of music available and talk shows. Ensure your chosen option aligns with your preferences, especially where the music genre is concerned. For optimum enjoyment, ensure you have the right tools, from a strong internet connection to high-quality speakers and headphones.