Radio 4 Extra is one of the BBC's newish digital (DAB) radio stations, not available in analogue. However, you don't necessarily need a digital radio as it is also available on Freeview (708), Freesat (708), Sky (0131) and Virgin TV (910). Most of the drama on this station is repeated from BBC Radio 4, though there have been some original commissions in recent years.

Each weekday there are: (1) 60 minutes of Crime and Thrillers, mostly split into two 30-minute serials. One or both of these is often a reading rather than a drama. (2) A 45-minute play. (3) A 60-minute serial. (4) 60 minutes of the '7th Dimension', which means Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror, mostly split into two 30-minute serials. One or both of these is often a reading rather than a drama.

On Saturdays and Sundays it broadcasts: (1) A 90-minute play. (2) 60 minutes of the '7th Dimension', which means Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror, mostly split into two 30-minute serials. One or both of these is often a reading rather than a drama.

In addition to this there are 15-minute drama serials, readings of all kinds and lots of lovely modern and classic radio comedy, including Hancock's Half Hour, The Goon Show, The Navy Lark, Beyond Our Ken and Round the Horne. A special feature is the extensive programming for children.