Local transmiter

https://ukfree.tv/transmitters/tv/Hemel_Hempstead

Freeview Channel Checker

https://www.freeview.co.uk/freeview-channel-checker

BBC Help receiving TV and radio

https://www.bbc.co.uk/reception/check-for-transmitter-faults

A few words on Freely as found on the internet

Freely is a free UK television streaming platform that allows users to watch live TV and on-demand content entirely over the internet, completely removing the need for a traditional aerial or satellite dish. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Timeline:
Freeview (Digital Terrestrial Television) is officially guaranteed to remain active via aerials until at least December 31, 2034. Government consultations and industry forecasts are mapping a full transition to internet-delivered television (IPTV) around this timeframe, though discussions continue regarding vulnerable or rural households with slower broadband access. [1, 2, 3]

Key Details:
• The Backing: It is a joint venture developed by Everyone TV, which is backed by the UK’s major public broadcasters: the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5. [1, 2, 3]
• The Content: It aggregates over 70 live channels and roughly 75,000 hours of on-demand content by integrating existing catch-up services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX into one unified TV guide. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• How to Get It: It comes built-in on newer smart TVs (such as Hisense, Bush, and Panasonic) or can be accessed via dedicated set-top streaming boxes like the Manhattan Aero. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• Requirements: All that is required is a compatible device, a TV license, and a stable Wi-Fi connection (ideally 10 Mbps or faster). [1, 2]You cannot download Freely as a standalone app on phones, tablets, or standard streaming sticks like a Fire TV or Chromecast. [1]

How Freely Works:
• Built-in only: Freely is an integrated TV platform built directly into supported smart TVs (such as recent models from Panasonic, Toshiba, JVC, and Hisense) or dedicated boxes. [1, 2]
• No app store download: You cannot search for and install Freely on older TVs or mobile app stores. [1, 2]
• Internet-powered: It replaces the traditional TV guide to stream live channels and on-demand content over Wi-Fi without needing an aerial or satellite dish. [1, 2, 3]
Check the official Freely Get Freely Page to see compatible TV brands and external devices. [1, 2]

Pros of Freely TV:
• No Aerial Needed: Streams live television over your home Wi-Fi or broadband connection, making it ideal for homes with poor aerial signals or no fitted antenna. [1, 2]
• Modern Unified Guide: Combines live TV channels and on-demand catch-up apps (BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, My5) into a single, clean electronic programme guide. [1, 2]
• More HD Content: Offers a higher number of HD channels compared to traditional standard Freeview broadcasts. [1]
• Extra Content: Provides access to streaming-only channels and over 75,000 hours of free on-demand box sets and catch-up programs. [1]
• No Subscription Fees: Completely free to use, though a standard UK TV licence is still required for live broadcasts. [1, 2]

Cons of Freely TV:
• Reliable Internet Required: Depends entirely on a stable, reasonably fast broadband connection (typically at least 10Mbps) to avoid buffering or lagging. [1, 2]
• Limited Channel Selection: Offers fewer total channels via broadband-only compared to a full traditional Freeview setup using an aerial (missing certain niche or commercial channels). [1]
• No Recording or Rewind: Lacks traditional hard-drive recording or instant live rewind functions, relying instead on basic pause/restart features for supported channels. [1]
• Device Availability: Currently built into select new smart TVs and specific certified devices rather than being universally downloadable as an app on older smart TVs (like older LG or Sony models). [1]