HD TV Broadcast
Essential guide to HD broadcast services in the UK
There is a growing number of channels being broadcast in the HD format in the UK and these
are all broadcast via satellite or cable.
You have a choice of satellite broadcast available from Sky Digital, FreeSat from the BBC and ITV, or cable broadcast from cable
TV providers Virgin Media.
Currently HD TV is NOT available via your aerial, even if you have a Freeview receiver. This may
change once the switch-over from analogue to digital broadcast is fully completed, but that is a while off yet and is yet to be confirmed by Ofcom.
Satellite HD Broadcast
Sky Digital broadcast a growing number of HD channels, including Sky Box Office movies, sporting events and programmes from the BBC.
Sky are currently offering some great deals, including the Sky+ live TV recording system, as well as satellite, phone and broadband packages.
Order Sky HD online. Only available at Sky.com.
Order Sky HD online. Only available at Sky.com.
BBC and ITV have launched a free satellite service that includes High Definition programming. This works with a satellite dish and a separate decoder box. There are a variety of decoders available, including
standard definition, high definition and a high definition model with personal video recorder (PVR) built in.
Once you have bought the equipment and paid for installation there are no monthly costs associated with this Freesat service.
Cable HDTV Broadcast
Whilst Cable TV may not be available in remote or rural locations, it is a popular choice in urban
and more densely populated areas. Virgin Media offer a variety of cable services on the UK mailand.

