
Learning English Stories
Improve your English with these short dramas and stories. Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at
bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus
Latest episodes

Jul 11, 2025 • 5min
Classic Stories: Oliver Twist
Enjoy a classic story in English and learn 7 uses of ‘light’ - in 5 minutes. FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish
Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS?
Try some of our other popular podcasts including:
✔️ 6 Minute English
✔️ Learning English from the News
✔️ Learning English Conversations They're all available by searching in your podcast app.

Jul 4, 2025 • 5min
Classic Stories: Red Riding Hood
Dive into the enchanting tale of Little Red Riding Hood as she navigates through a forest full of danger. Discover the cunning tricks of the Big Bad Wolf and the valuable lesson about the perils of trusting strangers. In just five minutes, learn nine different uses of the word 'cut' that will enhance your English skills while enjoying this classic story. Perfect for language lovers and fairy tale fans alike!

Jun 27, 2025 • 5min
Classic Stories: The Hound of the Baskervilles
Delve into the eerie world of Sherlock Holmes as he investigates the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. Explore the chilling legend of a monstrous hound haunting the Baskerville family. Join Holmes and Dr. Watson as they brave the haunting Dartmoor landscape, confronting ghostly elements and dark family secrets. Plus, learn nine fascinating uses of the word 'dead' in just five minutes!

Jun 20, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: The Piper of Hamelin
Dive into the captivating tale of the Piper of Hamelin, where greed leads to dire consequences. The town faces a rat infestation, prompting a mysterious piper to offer salvation for a price. When the townspeople fail to pay, revenge takes a chilling turn as the piper vanishes with their children. Unravel themes of deceit and the fallout of avarice in this classic story, all while learning 12 versatile uses of the word 'pay' in just five minutes.

Jun 13, 2025 • 4min
Classic Stories: Hansel and Gretel
Dive into the thrilling tale of Hansel and Gretel, where two children face abandonment and danger in the woods. Encountering a sinister witch, they cleverly devise an escape that leads to a triumphant return home. Along the way, explore 13 different uses of the word 'turn,' adding a unique twist to this classic story. It's a captivating blend of adventure and language learning!

21 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: The Lost World
Dive into an epic adventure as journalist Ned Malone embarks on a thrilling expedition with the fearless explorer George Edward Challenger. They navigate a prehistoric landscape filled with survival challenges and personal dilemmas. The story highlights bravery and the value of friendship in the face of danger. Plus, discover 16 intriguing uses of the word 'lose' woven throughout the narrative, making language learning fun and engaging!

May 30, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: The Red Shoes
Dive into a dark tale of vanity and obsession with a peasant girl named Karen and her enchanting red shoes. The narrative reveals how her fixation leads to her downfall, serving as a cautionary reminder about the dangers of superficiality. Discover the deeper meaning behind valuing genuine relationships over material desires. Plus, learn 13 different ways to use the word 'wear' in engaging contexts!

May 23, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: Romeo and Juliet
Dive into the poignant love story of two star-crossed lovers amid family feuds in Verona. Explore the intense emotions and tragic outcomes of their secret relationship. Plus, discover 13 creative uses of the word 'cross' to enrich your vocabulary while enjoying this classic tale.

4 snips
May 16, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: The Phantom of the Opera
Dive into a haunting tale set in the glamorous Palais Garnier, where love and obsession twist together. Meet Christine, Raoul, and the mysterious Phantom as their tangled emotions ignite chaos. The story explores the complexities of love, jealousy, and the enigmatic nature of the Phantom. Along the way, learn 11 uses of the word 'stage.' Tune in for a classic story that reveals the darker side of romance.

8 snips
May 12, 2025 • 6min
Classic Stories: A Tale of Two Cities
Explore the gripping themes of cruelty and courage set against the backdrop of the French Revolution. Delve into the trials of Dr. Manette and Charles Darnay, highlighting societal contrasts. Experience the emotional struggle between love and duty through Darnay and Carton. Witness Carton's remarkable self-sacrifice in a heart-wrenching climax that reshapes their destinies and brings hope to Lucy's future. Plus, discover 15 insightful uses of 'time' woven throughout the narrative!