Sky Atlantic questions and answers
Sky Atlantic is the new home of your favourite HBO shows on UK television. Sky Atlantic is being launched to be the new home of your favourite HBO shows on UK television.
Sky TV are supporting this launch with a massive investment, rumoured to be £150million, and an ad campaign across all media platforms featuring none other than Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman.
We’ve been getting a lot of enquiries about Sky Atlantic over the last few weeks, particularly about how you can get it once it launches. To help you to get the full Sky Atlantic picture we’ve collected all of these questions and answers together for you.
When does Sky Atlantic launch?
Sky Atlantic launches at 8pm on Tuesday 1st February 2011.
How can I get Sky Atlantic?
If you subscribe to any Sky TV package or bundle you will be able to receive Sky Atlantic free-of-charge from 1st February 2011.
Is Sky Atlantic free?
Yes, Sky Atlantic is free for all Sky TV subscribers.
Which viewing pack do I need to get Sky Atlantic?
It doesn’t matter which Sky TV package you go for, you will be able to receive Sky Atlantic as it is free to all Sky TV subscribers.
Can I get Sky Atlantic on Virgin Media?
In January 2011 Sky TV said that there are no plans to include Sky Atlantic in any Virgin Media TV package at any point in the foreseeable future. If Sky does decide to open up Sky Atlantic to Virgin Media subscribers then we will update this guide immediately.
Can I get Sky Atlantic on BT Vision?
In January 2011 Sky TV said that there are no plans to include Sky Atlantic in any BT Vision TV package at any point in the foreseeable future. If Sky does decide to open up Sky Atlantic to BT Vision subscribers then we will update this guide immediately.
Where do I find Sky Atlantic in my EPG?
Sky Atlantic HD will be on channel number 108, replacing Sky 3. Sky Atlantic in standard definition can be found on Sky channel 173.
Do I need to have Sky HD to watch Sky Atlantic?
No. While Sky Atlantic is intended to make the most of HD you can view it in standard definition on channel 173 if you do not have the equipment to support HD programmes.
Will I need to alter any settings?
No, the EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) should automatically update to include Sky Atlantic well in advance of the station’s launch on 1st February 2011.
Is it availabile in the Republic of Ireland
Yes, Sky Atlantic will be free for all Sky subscribers in ROI until 31/08/2011. After this date it will be available free to any ROI Sky subscribers who have the Variety Pack as part of their Sky subscription.
Will Sky Atlantic just be showing HBO shows?
No. While Sky TV does indeed have a five-year first-look deal with HBO it will also be showing shows from AMC, SyFy, CBS, NBC, Showtime and other top American channels.
It has also been announced that Sky Atlantic will feature original programmes made specifically for the channel. The first of these to be announced is ‘Hit and Miss’, a comedy-drama from ‘Shameless’ creator Paul Abbott.
Sky Atlantic will also be showing a range of classic shows in HD from the first episode including ER, Battlestar Galactica, Thirtysomething, Prison Break, Six Feet Under, Entourage, The X-Files and Star Trek: Voyager.
Compare All »Sky TV Deals
We always have the latest and greatest deals on Sky TV including broadband, TV and phone bundles. If you haven't subscribed to Sky TV then there has never been a better time, especially with the fantastic programmes coming to Sky Atlantic over the coming months.

