The newspaper industry in the United Kingdom has a storied history, contributing immensely to the nation’s cultural and informational landscape. Despite the digital revolution, newspapers remain a trusted source for many citizens. In 2024, print media continues to play a crucial role in keeping the public informed. This article highlights the ten largest newspapers in the UK, detailing their average circulation, foundation year, and ownership.
Introduction
British newspapers have been pivotal in shaping the country’s history, providing citizens with critical information and analysis. Although digital media has transformed how we consume news, print newspapers still hold a significant place. A recent survey indicates that 62% of adults read physical newspapers, with around 49.1 million adults engaging with various newspaper brands. This article explores the largest newspapers in the UK, examining their ongoing relevance in 2024.
History of British Newspapers
British newspapers trace their origins back to the 17th century, initially featuring formats like posters, ballads, and pamphlets. These early publications covered news and rumors, paving the way for a robust newspaper industry. The 18th century saw a rise in newspaper sales, peaking in the 20th century before facing a decline. Despite this, newspapers have evolved and adapted, maintaining their significance.
British newspapers fall into two primary categories: intellectual publications covering topics like education and finance, and tabloids focusing on entertainment news. The highest-selling newspaper in the UK is The Metro.
Top 10 Largest UK Newspapers in 2024
Metro
Average Circulation: 953,475
Owned By: DMG Media
Published by The Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT), The Metro is renowned as the fastest-growing newspaper in the UK. Its monthly audience has increased by 15.9%, with an average total readership of 16 million. Distributed daily from Monday to Friday, The Metro excludes public holidays.
The Telegraph
Average Circulation: N/A
Owned By: Telegraph Media Group
Founded in 1855 by Colonel Arthur B. Sleigh, The Daily Telegraph holds a prominent position among UK newspapers. In April 2024, it was reported to have 15.9 million readers. Although its circulation was 1.4 million in the 1980s, it declined by 20% in 2018. The Telegraph remains a daily publication.
Daily Mail
Average Circulation: 735,857
Owned By: Daily Mail and General Trust
Established in 1896 by Alfred Harmsworth, the Daily Mail is the second-largest circulated newspaper as of 2020. With a significant female readership comprising 52-55% of its audience, the Daily Mail also attracts 218 million online visitors on average.
Evening Standard
Average Circulation: 314,285
Owned By: Evgeny Lebedev, Daily Mail & General Trust, Justin Byam Shaw, Geordie Greig
Founded in 1827 as The Standard, the Evening Standard transitioned to a free newspaper in 2009 after 180 years of paid circulation. In May 2024, it was announced as a daily publication.
Daily Mirror
Average Circulation: 240,799
Owned By: Reach Plc
Launched in 1903, the Daily Mirror is a national daily tabloid. Its average print circulation was 716,923 in 2016 but dropped to 587,803 the following year. The Daily Mirror also publishes a Sunday edition, the Sunday Mirror.
Daily Express
Average Circulation: 152,699
Owned By: Reach plc
Founded in 1900 by Sir Arthur Pearson, the Daily Express was the world’s largest newspaper in the 1940s, with a circulation of 4 million copies. By June 2022, its average daily circulation had declined to 201,608.
Daily Star
Average Circulation: 132,699
Owned By: Reach plc
Established in 1978, the Daily Star initially sold 140,000 copies. It covers entertainment, celebrities, sports, news/gossip, and soap operas. The Daily Star competes directly with The Sun.
City A.M.
Average Circulation: 67,090
Owned By: THG plc
Launched in 2005, City A.M. focuses on business news. It has a substantial online presence, with 1.8 to 2 million subscribers and a print circulation of 67,714 as of 2023.
Daily Record
Average Circulation: 52,618
Owned By: Reach plc
Founded in 1895, the Daily Record is a Scottish national tabloid, primarily covering sports and news. It holds the largest readership among Scottish publishers in 2024.
The Guardian
Average Circulation: 108,687 (2021)
Owned By: Guardian Media Group
Founded in 1821 as The Manchester Guardian, The Guardian is a daily newspaper with sister publications like The Observer and The Guardian Weekly. Its online platforms include TheGuardian.com, Guardian Australia, Guardian US, and The Guardian New Zealand.
The Decline of the Newspaper Industry
The newspaper industry has faced significant challenges, particularly with the advent of television and the internet. The shift from print to electronic media began in the 1950s and accelerated with the rise of the internet in the 1990s.
Notable impacts include:
- Job Cuts and Closures: The Independent announced major job cuts in 2008 and ceased print circulation in 2016. Between 2009 and 2019, around 300 newspaper titles were discontinued in the UK.
- American Newspapers: The United States saw over 2,200 local newspapers close between 2005 and 2021.
Conclusion
Despite the dominance of the internet, leading UK newspapers continue to attract readers. Many people still prefer physical newspapers over their digital counterparts. This list of the top 10 UK newspapers for 2024 underscores their enduring appeal and importance.
