The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is one of the most renowned broadcasters in the world, known for its high-quality programming spanning news, entertainment, documentaries and more. For TV viewers in the US looking to access BBC channels and content, DirecTV offers several options across its channel packages. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of finding and watching BBC channels on DirecTV.
A Brief History of the BBC
The BBC has a long and storied history in British broadcasting. It was established in 1922 as the British Broadcasting Company, before becoming the public broadcasting corporation the BBC in 1927. Over the decades, the BBC has been responsible for major broadcasting milestones in the UK such as launching the world’s first regular television service in 1936.
Today, the BBC operates multiple TV and radio stations both domestically and internationally. Its content and channels focus on news, entertainment, documentaries, arts, culture and more. Popular BBC shows exported abroad include classics like Doctor Who, Top Gear, Sherlock and natural history documentaries like Planet Earth.
BBC America (Channel 264)
The main BBC channel available on DirecTV in the US is BBC America. This channel showcases a mix of popular British programming tailored for American audiences.
BBC America is available on DirecTV channel 264, regardless of which base package you subscribe to.
Some highlights of BBC America’s programming include:
- Iconic sci-fi series like Doctor Who and spinoffs like Torchwood
- Critically acclaimed dramas such as Killing Eve and Luther
- Comedy panel shows like The Graham Norton Show
- Factual entertainment such as Planet Earth and Top Gear
So whether you enjoy sci-fi, true crime thrillers, chat shows or nature documentaries, BBC America offers something for all tastes.
Accessing BBC America on DirecTV
BBC America is carried on all DirecTV packages, including the base Entertainment package. So you don’t need to pay for a higher tier package to get it.
The channel is also available in HD quality on DirecTV, allowing you to watch BBC America shows in enhanced high definition where available.
If you’re already a DirecTV subscriber, simply tune to channel 264 to access BBC America. Or refer to DirecTV’s channel lookup to double check the channel placement.
BBC World News (Channel 346)
In addition to entertainment content on BBC America, DirecTV also offers BBC World News on channel 346.
As the name suggests, BBC World News focuses purely on global news and current affairs programming. It provides an alternative perspective to US cable news channels.
Some highlights of BBC World News include:
- Live breaking news coverage and analysis
- Award-winning journalism and documentaries
- Interviews with global influencers and decision makers
- Insight into international politics, business, technology and culture
BBC World News is included with DirecTV’s mid-tier packages like Xtra and higher, so you’ll need to subscribe to these to access it.
The channel isn’t available on DirecTV’s base packages like Entertainment and Choice.
Additional Ways to Get BBC Content
Beyond the main BBC channels on DirecTV, there are also a few additional ways to access BBC programming:
On Demand Library
DirecTV offers a large On Demand library with over 40,000 titles. This includes past seasons and episodes of some popular BBC shows like Doctor Who and Planet Earth that you can stream on demand.
However the selection rotates, so not all BBC titles may be available at all times.
Streaming Services
Standalone streaming services like BBC iPlayer in the UK and Britbox in the US focus exclusively on British programming. These give you wider access to BBC content that may not air on BBC America.
Most streaming services require separate subscriptions. But DirecTV customers can access some bundled streaming apps like Peacock Premium at no extra cost.
Mobile Apps
If you want to watch BBC channels on the go, most DirecTV packages come with access to the DirecTV app. This lets you stream content from your DirecTV subscription over the internet on mobile devices, including BBC programming.
There are also dedicated mobile apps for BBC channels like BBC America and BBC iPlayer if you want to watch shows on your mobile device.
Common Questions about BBC on DirecTV
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about accessing BBC channels through DirecTV:
What channel is BBC America on DirecTV?
BBC America is on channel 264, which is included with all DirecTV packages.
What packages include BBC World News?
BBC World News is only available on DirecTV’s mid-tier packages like Xtra and higher.
Can I watch BBC on demand?
Yes, some BBC programming is available through DirecTV’s On Demand library, although selections vary.
Do channel numbers ever change?
Yes channel numbers can sometimes change. Always refer to DirecTV’s latest channel lookup to confirm channel placements for BBC and other channels.
I’m having issues accessing BBC channels – what should I do?
If you can’t access certain channels, there may be technical issues with reception in your area. Contact DirecTV customer support for troubleshooting tips.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for the latest British TV dramas, late night comedy chat shows or live global news coverage, DirecTV offers multiple ways to access BBC channels and programming.
The main BBC networks carried are flagship entertainment channel BBC America (channel 264) and 24-hour news network BBC World News (channel 346). All DirecTV packages include BBC America, while BBC World News requires mid-tier packages.
For the most current channel placements and programming details, always refer to DirecTV’s official website and channel lookup. And contact their customer support if you have any issues accessing BBC channels in your subscription package.
So switch on your DirecTV box and transport yourself to Britain with the best of BBC entertainment and news programming from across the pond!