Irish TV Channels Guide 2026: Free & Paid Channels
Updated September 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with any broadcaster
Every legal way to watch Irish TV channels — which are free on Saorview and the official player apps, and which need a pay-TV package.
Free Irish TV channels
You can watch the main Irish channels without paying a subscription through Saorview, the free-to-air digital TV service run by 2RN for RTÉ. You need a UHF aerial and a TV or set-top box with a Saorview tuner.
| Channel | Owner | Free on Saorview | Free streaming app |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTÉ One | RTÉ | Yes (HD) | RTÉ Player |
| RTÉ2 | RTÉ | Yes (HD) | RTÉ Player |
| RTÉ News | RTÉ | Yes | RTÉ Player |
| TG4 | TG4 | Yes (HD) | TG4 Player |
| Cúla4 | TG4 | Yes | TG4 Player |
| Virgin Media channels | Virgin Media Television | Yes | Virgin Media Play |
Line-ups change occasionally. Always check saorview.ie for the current list.
Pay-TV channels in Ireland
Sport
Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Premier Sports are the main paid sport channels. You can get them through Sky, Virgin Media, eir TV or on a monthly basis through NOW.
Movies
Sky Cinema is available in Sky packages and through a NOW Cinema membership, alongside on-demand services such as Netflix, Disney+ and Prime Video.
UK channels
BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and other UK channels are included in many Irish pay-TV packages. Check each provider's channel list.
Kids
Cúla4 and RTÉ kids programming are free. Paid packages add channels such as Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.
Where to watch each type of channel
- Free: Saorview plus RTÉ Player, TG4 Player and Virgin Media Play.
- Monthly, no long contract: NOW Ireland.
- Full packages: compare Virgin Media, Sky and eir TV, or see the eir TV channel list.
Frequently asked questions
What channels are free on Saorview?
Saorview carries the main Irish public and commercial channels, including RTÉ One, RTÉ2, RTÉ News, TG4, Cúla4 and the Virgin Media channels, plus a small number of other services such as Sky News. Several channels are broadcast in HD. The exact line-up changes from time to time, so check saorview.ie for the current list.
How do I watch Irish TV channels online?
Use the free official apps: RTÉ Player for RTÉ channels, TG4 Player for TG4 and Virgin Media Play for the Virgin Media channels. They run on most smart TVs, streaming sticks, phones and web browsers.
Which service has the most sports channels in Ireland?
Sky Ireland has the widest range of sport channels, and NOW gives you Sky Sports on a monthly basis. TNT Sports and Premier Sports are available through pay-TV providers and NOW add-ons.
Can I get UK channels in Ireland?
Many UK channels such as BBC One and ITV are carried on Irish pay-TV services like Sky, Virgin Media and eir TV. Availability varies by provider and package, so check the channel list before you sign up.