Virgin Radio UK is a national radio station in the United Kingdom that launched on 30 March 2016. It is owned by News Broadcasting, a subsidiary of News Corp. The station broadcasts a Hot Adult Contemporary format, focusing on pop music from the 1980s to the present day.
This is the second incarnation of Virgin Radio in the UK. The original station launched in 1993 before being rebranded as Absolute Radio in 2008. The current Virgin Radio UK broadcasts via DAB digital radio, online streaming, and satellite platforms.
Virgin Radio UK features live presenters from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with automated programming overnight. Some of its notable presenters include Chris Evans, who hosts the breakfast show, and Graham Norton, who had a weekend show until February 2024.
The station's programming includes a mix of contemporary hits and classic pop tracks. It also offers specialized digital stations like Virgin Radio Anthems and Virgin Radio Chilled.
As of September 2023, Virgin Radio UK had a weekly audience of 1.4 million listeners according to RAJAR ratings. The station continues to evolve its lineup, recently announcing changes to its weekend schedule for Spring 2024, including new shows hosted by Angela Scanlon, Leigh Francis, and Dick & Dom.