RÚV English Radio
RÚV English Radio is a daily English-language podcast from Iceland's national broadcaster, RÚV. It publishes a new show every weekday, covering Icelandic news, culture, music, language, events, people and places. The programme is part of RÚV's English-language service and is aimed at listeners who want to hear about Iceland in English. Listeners can also get in touch with show ideas or questions by email.
Episodes
Episode 961 - MENGI, REYKJAVÍK: FESTIVAL OF IMPROVISED MUSIC #1
Today, RÚV English Radio returns to Mengi.
Mengi is Reykjavík's longest running independent music venue. This weekend, starting tomorrow (Thursday), you can enjoy three nights of improvised creativity, at the Festival of Improvised Music (https://www.facebook.com/events/2337754820103393).
See details of all the acts here: https://mengi.net/events.html
Darren met Mengi's artistic director John M
Episode 960 - MICHELLE BIRD: FISH OUT OF WATER, GALLERÍ GRÓTTA, SELTJARNARNES
Today, RÚV English Radio talks again to artist Michelle Bird.
Michelle Bird's (https://theartofmichellebird.com/) new exhibition is Fish out of Water - compiled of paintings created in the past 12 years, almost the time that she has officially lived in Iceland.
It runs at Gallerí Grótta in Seltjarnarnes (https://www.icelandicartcenter.is/venues/gallery-grotta), for one month, from November 5.
R
Episode 959 - WATSU: WATER THERAPY ICELAND
Today, RÚV English Radio is in the water.
Watsu (water shiatsu) is a form of passive aquatic bodywork and hydrotherapy - and are there many better places than Iceland to practice such an activity?
Darren was guided through his first Watsu session by Steve Fernandez of Water Therapy Iceland (https://watertherapy.is/).
Dip your toes in these waters with workshops and courses (https://watertherapy
Episode 958 - 100 YEARS OF THE FRÍKIRKJAN CHURCH ORGAN IN REYKJAVÍK
Today, something very big, is very old.
In 1926, 42 crates arrived in Iceland aboard the ship Lagarfoss from Germany. The cargo weighed 11 tonnes and contained a new organ for Fríkirkjan Church in Reykjavík - with an organ builder from the Sauer factory to assemble what was Iceland's biggest musical instrument.
The 100th anniversary of the organ is celebrated this year with a series of free conc
Episode 957 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - THE GLOSSY IBIS, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 956 - REYKJAVÍK OPERA DAYS / ÓPERUDAGUR & BLUEBEARD'S CASTLE / KASTALI BLÁSKEGGS
Today on RÚV English Radio, the return of the Opera Days festival to Reykjavík.
Reykjavík Opera Days, Óperudagur, (https://www.operudagar.is/en/dagskra/) celebrates opera in Iceland, and classical voices more generally. The festival kicks off this week.
The festival director is Guja Sandholt, who also performs in Béla Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle, receiving its Icelandic premiere.
Darren spoke t
Episode 955 - FROM RUV'S FOREIGN DESK: SERBIAN VOTERS IN ICELAND
Today on RÚV English Radio, an interview from RÚV's foreign desk, which produces a radio programme about foreign affairs, Heimskviður (https://www.ruv.is/utvarp/spila/heimskvidur/29234), broadcast on Rás 1. Many of the interviews happen in English, and occasionally we will replay them here.
Serbians living in Iceland have tried to set up a polling station to vote in Serbian elections. They say th
Episode 954 - SELASETUR ÍSLANDS / ICELANDIC SEAL CENTER, HVAMMSTANGI
Today, RÚV English Radio is back in Hvammstangi.
The Icelandic Seal Center (https://selasetur.is/en/) in Hvammstangi is a fun and educational experience for all ages, where you can learn all about these fascinating creatures, how to see them, and how to help keep them safe.
Darren was guided round by centre manager Örvar B. Eiríksson, and Sandra Magdalena Granquist, who runs the research departm
Episode 953 - ICELAND'S TYRE CHANGE SEASON / FÍB, THE ICELANDIC AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION
Today on RÚV English Radio - are you ready for winter?
The use of studded tyres in Iceland is legal between 1 November and 14 April each year. But are they compulsory? And what is the difference between studded, winter, and all-season tyres?
Darren spoke to Björn Kristjánsson, technical advisor at FÍB - the Icelandic Automobile Association (https://www.fib.is/is/english), about the tyre laws, an
Episode 952 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - ANNE CARSON, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 951 - TEXTILE MUSEUM, BLÖNDUÓS
Today, RÚV English Radio is once again in Blönduós.
The Textile Museum in Blönduós (https://www.textile.is/copy-of-halld%C3%B3rustofa) exhibits homemade wool and textile items, as well as Icelandic national costumes and artistic embroideries along with the tools and equipment used to produce them.
It was founded by the Women’s Union in East Húnavatnssýsla, and an important part of it is named af
Episode 950 - LISTAKOT DÓRU, BLÖNDUÓS (AND LAPPI THE DOG)
Today, RÚV English Radio is in north Iceland, near the town of Blönduós.
Listakot Dóru (https://www.facebook.com/p/Listakot-D%C3%B3ru-100064051472722/) is a gallery and craft shop, featuring the work of owner Hólmfríður Dóra Sigurðardóttir and other artists. As well as some wonderful artworks, you can also enjoy the welcome from Lappi, Iceland's most friendly dog!
Darren met Dóra and Lappi at th
Episode 949 - KIDKA, HVAMMSTANGI
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Hvammstangi.
The KIDKA knitwear factory in Hvammstangi (https://kidka.com) was established in 1972 and is one of Iceland's largest wool factories. It uses only Icelandic sheep's wool, and makes and sells a variety of different knitwear items.
The ReCover range also makes use of new yarn from offcuts and leftover wool.
Darren went to Hvammstangi and met Beate Maria
Episode 948 - MENGI & THE MUSIC OF JOHN MCCOWEN
Today, RÚV English Radio meets composer & clarinetist John McCowen.
John McCowen (https://www.johnmccowen.com) is a Reykjavík-based composer & clarinetist, lecturer at Listaháskóli Íslands, and the artistic director of independent music venue Mengi (https://mengi.net).
Darren met John at Mengi to hear about his music, the venue, and his performance with Skúli Sverrisson tomorrow (Saturday). (htt
Episode 947 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - SUPERMARKET PRICE CUTS, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 946 - NÁGRANNAR / NEIGHBOURS, HÚSAVÍK
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Húsavík.
Nágrannar is an exhibition (https://www.husmus.is/is/um-mmth/frettir/nagrannar-syningaropnun) about people and connections in Húsavík, at the town's museum.
In Nágrannar, four pairs share their connections and experiences of Húsavík. Each pair has chosen two objects together that have a special meaning for them. Together, these objects and stories offer a
Episode 945 - EYRÍKI, GRÍMSEY
Today on RÚV English Radio, the documentary film on and about the island of Grímsey.
Nikolai Galitzine's new film Eyríki (https://bioparadis.is/mynd/981_eyr-ki/) is a love letter to his sometime-home, the the northernmost inhabited area of Iceland, the island of Grímsey.
It opens tonight at Bíó Paradis.
Darren spoke to Nikolai, and producer Dögg Mósesdóttir.
RÚV English Radio is heard around t
Episode 944 - HAFNARBORG, HAFNARFJÖRÐUR: margins/JOE KEYS
Today, RÚV English Radio returns to Hafnarborg in Hafnarfjörður.
The exhibition margins (https://hafnarborg.is/en/exhibition/margins/) turns its attention to the exhibition space itself. Six artists engage directly with the space: Daníel Ágúst Ágústsson, Gabi Schillig, Hildur Elísa Jónsdóttir, Iyo Hasegawa, Shiori Ono, and Darren's guest, Joe Keys.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and
Episode 943 - BLÖNDUÓS BEACH
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Blönduós.
The black sand beach at Blönduós is a very dramatic place to be on a stormy autumn day.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture, art, music, language, and much more.
Let us know where you're listening - in Iceland, or around the world - we'd love to give you a mention! Email english@ruv.is
Find this epis
Episode 942 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - FISKA, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 941 - THOR BREIDFJORD: SÖGUR HJARTANS / STORIES OF THE HEART, HARPA
Today on RÚV English Radio: Thor Breidfjord (Þór Breiðfjörð) at Harpa.
After decades in musical theatre and years fronting bands, Thor Breidfjord (https://thorthemusic.com/) is returning to his singer and songwriter roots. The singer, actor and songwriter will perform a complete 70 minute concert alone, with only his voice, piano and guitar, at Harpa, on 1 October. (https://tix.is/en/event/21883/
Episode 940 - HANDVERKSHÓPURINN BOLLI, BÚÐARDALUR
Today, RÚV English Radio is back in Buðardalur.
Handverkshópurinn Bolli (https://www.facebook.com/p/Handverkshópurinn-Bolli-100082523924304/) sells local handicrafts, products from wool, hand carved wood, bone crafts, ceramics, and much more - all made by an association of around sixty people, all living locally.
Darren welcomed Bjarnheiður Jóhannsdóttir back (https://www.ruv.is/english/2024-10-
Episode 939 - THE RHINESTONE COWBOY, TJARNARBÍÓ
Today on RÚV English Radio, the new play coming to Tjarnarbíó this week.
Dan 'The Man' Docherty came to Reykjavik from Edinburgh to study graphic design and stayed for 9 years. He was a well known figure at Kaffibarin as he worked there for many years, and also became a member of the Border Control team at Keflavík Airport. There is even a photo of him in Ölstofan, his favourite bar.
Tragically
Episode 938 - BÚÐARDALUR'S BEAUTIFUL POOL
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Búðardalur, in west Iceland.
The town of Búðardalur used to have no swimming pool of its own, until earlier this year, when it built a brand new facility with arguably one of the best views of any in Iceland, paired with a new gym and sports hall (https://www.facebook.com/ithrottamidstodin.budardal).
Einar Björn Þorgrímsson is Dalabyggð's public health officer, and
Episode 937 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - SCHOOL GRADES, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 936 - SHREK RAVE, GAMLA BÍÓ
The Shrek Rave is coming back to Gamla Bíó this weekend!
Shrek fans with or without costumes are invited to the swamp that Gamla Bíó will become this Friday (https://likeit-loveit.com/eu/events/shrek-rave-gamla-bio-334/shrek-rave-is-coming-to-reykjavik-726111045/). Stand by for a Shrek DJ set, crazy Shrek performers, 'I'm A Believer' singalongs, Shrek visuals, Shrek giveaways, games - and Shrek-t
Episode 935 - EMBODYING A BUILDING: BODIES IN AALTO BUILDINGS, NORDIC HOUSE
Today, RÚV English Radio is at Iceland's only building designed by architect Alvar Aalto - the Nordic House.
In October, Reykjavík's Nordic House plays host to Embodying a Building: Bodies in Aalto Buildings (https://nordichouse.is/en/event/embodying-a-building-bodies-in-aalto-buildings/), an exhibition of works by Elina Brotherus, Dafna Maimon, and Ilona Sagar. It explores the relationship betwe
Episode 934 - DISASSOCIATED ME: PREMIERE AT REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Today on RÚV English Radio, the film coming to the Reykjavík International Film Festival, inspired by Icelandic editor Elísabet Ronaldsdóttir, who found herself unexpectedly in front of the camera.
Janaé Rachel Ballot's "Disassociated Me" sees the director encouraged by her friend Elísabet Ronaldsdóttir, to make a film about her chaotic past. Without a script, she casts actors, location scouts, r
Episode 933 - KNITTING WITHOUT A NET & ÍSLENSKA ULLARVIKAN / ICELANDIC WOOL WEEK
Today on RÚV English Radio, a previous guest joins the show to talk about her forthcoming knitting classes and events in Iceland.
Leslie Meyer (https://www.instagram.com/scribbleknitter/) is a knitting enthusiast based in Seattle, whose love of Iceland matches her love for all things woollen. She is in Iceland from next week for events in Kópavogur library (https://bokasafn.kopavogur.is/event/prj
Episode 932 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - HIGHLAND SNOW, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 931 - BREK
Today on RÚV English Radio, the music of Brek.
The band Brek (https://www.brek.is) plays mainly original, folk music with influences from various directions. They connect Icelandic folk music heritage with other types of folk music. Their new album Ný spor í slóð is released next week, and will be launched with a gig at Kópavogur's Salurinn (https://tix.is/en/event/22065/brek-ny-spor-i-slod-utgaf
Episode 930 - HÚSAVÍK MUSEUM: MYNDLISTARSAFN ÞINGEYINGA / THE DISTRICT ART COLLECTION
Today on RÚV English Radio, a final visit - for now - to Húsavík's museum.
The District Art Collection (https://www.husmus.is/en/husavik-museum#district-art-collection) currently consists of almost nineteen hundred works - quite an increase since its foundation in 1978, when its first donation saw just 77 works by 30 artists.
Darren again spoke to the museum's Nicola Van Kuilenburg.
RÚV Englis
Episode 929 - KRISTIAN SØNDERLUND ROSS: THE MUSIC OF EVE ONLINE
Today on RÚV English Radio - the musical worlds of a hugely successful Icelandic interactive online game.
Reykjavik's Fenris Creations launched EVE Online (https://www.eveonline.com/) in May 2003. The game gives players freedom to "shape economies, politics and warfare, on a galactic scale".
The music in the game is no less epic. Darren spoke to composer Kristian Sønderlund Ross, about soundtrac
Episode 928 - LATIN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL 2026: BÍÓ PARADÍS, REYKJAVÍK
Today on RÚV English radio, the Latin American Film Festival is back.
Returning for its fourth year, the Latin American Film Festival 2026 (https://bioparadis.is/vidburdir/latin-american-film-festival-2026/) focuses on work by female film makers. As ever, there 's a feast of food, music and dancing around the schedule too.
Darren met co-directors Tania Zarak and Hugo Llanes to hear more - and wh
Episode 927 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - CAFFEINE SUPPLEMENTS, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 926 - ROUTE 870: MELRAKKASLÉTTA
Today, RÚV English Radio is on Iceland's remote north-east edge.
Route 870 over the remote Melrakkaslétta peninsula is a great drive along a gravel road, running along Iceland’s Arctic Coast Way. It forms the old road connection between Kópasker and Raufarhöfn.
Darren took a (slow) spin over the bumpy but scenic road.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icela
Episode 925 - HÚSAVÍK MUSEUM: FERÐIN VESTUR - THE JOURNEY WEST
Today on RÚV English Radio, a return to Húsavík Museum.
In the entrance to Húsavík Museum, you'll find Ferðin Vestur: The Journey West, a small but fascinating exhibition detailing some of the migration that's taken place from Iceland in the past.
Darren heard more from the museum's Nicola Van Kuilenburg.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture,
Episode 924 - HRAFNABLÓT
Today on RÚV English Radio, the music of Hrafnablót.
Hrafnablót (https://hrafnablot.is) is a "sorcerous folk metal band", formed in Iceland in the autumn of 2024. They draw inspiration from the light and darkness of Icelandic magick, the Sagas, and folklore.
Their new album Guðlaugar Saga is out on Friday, with tickets to November's launch gig (https://tix.is/event/22293) already selling well.
Episode 923 - JÓHANN SIGURJÓNSSON MONUMENT, HEIÐARENDI
Today on RÚV English Radio, a quick stop on the road just west of Húsavík.
Jóhann Sigurjónsson (1880 - 1919) was a poet, playwright, and even an inventor. There's a striking monument to him on route 85 just west of Húsavík.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture, art, music, language, and much more.
Let us know where you're listening - in Icela
Episode 922 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - MESSI THE FOOTBALLING LAMB, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 921 - POPERA
Today, on RÚV English Radio - POPera - premiering tomorrow at Tjarnarbíó.
POPera (https://tix.is/event/21951%2Fpopera) is a musical in which electronic music becomes as dramatic as contemporary art opera.
But find out why you can think of it as "Purple Werewolf meets Pussy Riot", in today's conversation!
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture,
Episode 920 - HÚSAVÍK MUSEUM: MARITIME MUSEUM
Today, RÚV English Radio is back in Húsavík.
The Maritime Museum is one of two permanent exhibitions in Húsavík's museum (https://www.husmus.is/en/husavik-museum#maritime-museum), showing the evolution of fishing and boat building in the area. It also shows how people accessed the riches of the ocean and the beaches in order to survive.
And it is home to the largest polar bear ever to have drift
Episode 919 - HEIMAR OG HIMINGEIMAR - WORLDS AND UNIVERSES, HAFNARFJÖRÐUR
Today on RÚV English Radio, the festival of costumery coming to Hafnarfjörður at the end of this week.
Heimar og Himingeimar (https://hafnarfjordur.is/en/event/worlds-and-heavens-2026-camp-and-games-gathering/) is a gathering for costume enthusiasts and people involved in costume-based sports. The event (https://himingeimar.is/), in Hafnarfjörður's new library, offers an entire weekend of enterta
Episode 918 - BREADCRUMBS, TJARNARBÍÓ
Today on RÚV English Radio, the play receiving its Icelandic premiere today.
Jennifer Haley's "Breadcrumbs" (https://www.vivais.info/) opens at Tjarnarbíó in Reykjavík tonight (28 August). It's a moving play about Alzheimer’s disease, performed entirely in English.
Darren heard more from director Juliette Louste, and Virginia Wall Gruenert, who both plays Alida, and co-produces. The play is prod
Episode 917 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - 112, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 916 - HAMRABORG FESTIVAL 2026
Today on RÚV English Radio - the Hamraborg Festival is back in Kópavogur.
Kópavogur's Hamraborg Festival (https://www.hamraborgfestival.is/en) just seems to go from strength to strength. This year's week long festival starts this Friday.
Darren spoke to one of the contributing artists, Diljá Þorvaldsdóttir.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic cultur
Episode 915 - HÚSAVÍK MUSEUM: DAILY LIFE AND NATURE - 100 YEARS IN ÞINGEYJARSÝSLUR
Today, RÚV English Radio makes its first visit to Húsavík museum.
“Daily Life and Nature - 100 Years in Þingeyjarsýslur” is one of two permanent exhibitions at Húsavík museum (https://www.husmus.is/en/husavik-museum). The exhibition explores the relationship between people and nature in Þingeyjarsýslur between 1850 and 1950.
On his first visit to the museum - with more to follow - Darren was gui
Episode 914 - MASTER LEMON: THE QUEST FOR ICELAND
Today on RÚV English Radio, the video game which honours the creator's friend, and his love of Icelandic, and Iceland.
Julio de Santi is a Brazilian game developer. He had a polyglot friend with whom he learned languages. His big dream was to move to Iceland. He made it and built a life here, but died in a car accident about a year later.
Julio made him a game, called Master Lemon: The Quest for
Episode 913 - REYKJAVÍK JAZZ FESTIVAL 2026
The Reykjavík Jazz Festival is back for 2026, coming to the capital next week.
Pétur Oddbergur Heimisson runs the festival (https://www.reykjavikjazz.is/en/frontpage), and told Darren what jazz fans can expect.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture, art, music, language, and much more.
Let us know where you're listening - in Iceland, or around
Episode 912 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - ICEBERGS, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 911 - GRENJAÐARSTAÐUR TURF HOUSE
Today, RÚV English Radio is at the Grenjaðarstaður turf house.
The historic settlement of Grenjaðarstaður in Aðaldalur is one of Iceland’s largest turf houses (https://www.husmus.is/en/grenjadarstadur), around 30 km south of Husavik.
The house is unique, primarily insulated with lava rocks, and the interior is panelled with driftwood.
The house is available for booked group visits after August
Episode 910 - SNARTARSTAÐIR, KÓPASKER
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Kópasker, in north east Iceland.
Snartarstaðir is home to Byggðasafn Norður-Þingeyinga (North Þingeyjarsýsla Regional Museum) (https://www.husmus.is/en/snartarstadir), in Kópasker.
The museum opened in 1991 in the old schoolhouse and holds more than 2,000 objects, although collection began in 1950.
The exhibition also houses the 9,000-volume library of Helgi and A
Episode 909 - TUMI'S AKUREYRI SONGWRITING WORKSHOP RETURNS
Today on RÚV English Radio, the successful and free songwriting session returning to Akureyri this Wednesday.
Coming back to Hóf in Akureyri this Wednesday - another free songwriting workshop (https://lagasmidjur.flammeusmusic.com) for beginners, and for those whose phones may already contain some unfinished song ideas...
Tumi, better known as the artist Flammeus (https://flammeus.bandcamp.com/)
Episode 908 - THE EU ACCESSION TALKS REFERENDUM
Today on RÚV English Radio, we go, in detail, into the forthcoming referendum in Iceland.
On Saturday, 29 August 2026, a referendum will be held on whether Iceland should resume accession negotiations with the European Union (EU).
Darren is joined today by his RÚV colleague Baldvin Þór Bergsson to assess the state of the campaign - and what might happen next.
RÚV English Radio is heard around t
Episode 907 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - GARÐABÆR DEVELOPMENT, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 906 - ICELAND'S TOTAL ECLIPSE
Today on RÚV English Radio - we're a couple of hours away...
At 5.43pm and 28 seconds, the Moon's umbra first touches Iceland in Hornstrandir.
Here's how things are looking at 3pm as we wait, and hope for some breaks in the cloud. You'll also hear a very special piece of music created for another famous eclipse back in 1999, composed by Judy Whitlock. (https://www.judywhitlock.com/)
RÚV English
Episode 905 - TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE: STJÖRNU SÆVAR
Today on RÚV English Radio, we talk to Iceland's Mr. Eclipse...
Sævar Helgi Bragason, or Stjörnu Sævar (https://stjornusaevar.is/about-me), is a famous Icelandic science educator and astronomer - and very likely Iceland's busiest man right now.
On the eve of the big day he tells us what an eclipse (https://eclipse2026.is/about) actually is, how beautiful they are - and why a cloudy day certainly
Episode 904 - A SPECIAL SOLAR ECLIPSE CONCERT: ÁRSTÍÐIR, FRÍKIRKJAN
Today on RÚV English Radio, a very special concert in Reykjavík tomorow; the eve of the total solar eclipse.
Árstíðir (https://arstidir.com/#videos) are an internationally popular Icelandic vocal three-piece band, blending history and modernity while celebrating Icelandic musical folk tradition.
Tomorrow they perform at the capital's Fríkirkjan (https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108619325), to previ
Episode 903 - EYJAFJÖRÐUR'S TROLL TABLE AND CHAIR
Today on RÚV English Radio, a quick and quirky roadside stop just south of Akureyri.
Ten minutes from Akureyri, you might think your eyes are deceiving you, as you spot a giant wooden table and chair just off route 821...
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture, art, music, language, and much more.
Let us know where you're listening - in Iceland
Episode 902 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - GUNNAR ÞÓRÐARSON, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 901 - WORLD PIANO TEACHERS ASSOCIATION ICELAND: INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION & FESTIVAL 2026
Today on RÚV English Radio, the free feast of wonderful piano music available for you to enjoy.
WPTA (World Piano Teachers Association) Iceland brings its international piano competition back to Salurinn in Kópavogur from August 14th–16th (https://www.facebook.com/wptaiceland), alongside a summer piano course organised in collaboration with the Iceland University of the Arts Open University progr
Episode 900 - INTERNATIONAL MYELOMA FOUNDATION: ICELAND CYCLING EXPEDITION
Today on RÚV English Radio, the cycling expedition deep into the Icelandic highlands raising funds for a great cause.
War veteran, husband, father, and multiple myeloma patient Eric Blackburn will cycle through Iceland with 14 patients and supporters, as part of The International Myeloma Foundation’s Iceland Cycling Expedition (https://www.myeloma.org/ways-give/other-ways-give/iceland-cycling-exp
Episode 899 - THE NEST & REYKJAVÍK PRIDE
Today on RÚV English Radio, a look ahead to Pride generally, and, in more detail, a new exhibition called The Nest.
The Nest is a corner of Reykjavik City Library at Grófin (https://borgarbokasafn.is/en/library/grofin-city-library) that hosts a collection of texts and media curated by users of the library. During Reykjavík Pride (https://hinsegindagar.is/en/), visitors to The Nest can to listen t
Episode 898 - AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD: NATURE AND LIFE BY THE OPEN SEA, RAUFARHÖFN
Today on RÚV English Radio, the art course returning to the town starting on Monday.
From Monday, the Reykjavík School of Visual Arts is running an interesting course on the Melrakkaslétta peninsula, at Óskarsbraggi (https://oskarsbraggi.com) in Raufarhöfn.
Snorri Freyr Hilmarsson, an illustrator, set designer, and manager of Óskarsbraggi, is one of those offering instruction. Darren met him to
Episode 897 - TANKARNIR RAUFARHÖFN
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Raufarhöfn, in north east Iceland.
The two former fish oil tanks in the town of Raufarhöfn have now been beautifully repurposed as artistic spaces (https://tankarnir.is/upcoming/).
This Sunday a chamber opera called A Thin Veneer on a Fiery Pool will be performed in one of the tanks, while on August 8 you can enjoy Heart Ember - a piece combining electronic music a
Episode 896 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - COMMERCE DAY, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 895 - VÍNLANDSSETRIÐ LEIFSBÚÐ / LEIFUR EIRÍKSSON CENTRE, BÚÐARDALUR
Today on RÚV English Radio - beating Christopher Columbus to North America by half a millennium...
Buðardalur's Leifur Eiríksson Centre (https://vinlandssetur.is/en/front-page/) tells the stories of voyages of discovery made by Eiríkur the Red and Leifur Eiríksson in Greenland, Canada and the United States.
You'll also hear about Guðríður Þorbjarnardóttir, Leifur's sister-in-law, an extraordinar
Episode 894 - LJÓMALIND SVEITAMARKAÐUR, BORGARNES
Today on RÚV English Radio, the much-loved farmers' market in Borgarnes.
Ljómalind (https://www.facebook.com/LjomalindLocalMarket/) is a market shop in Borgarnes, in West Iceland, filled with locally made and produced foods, and art and crafts from all over the country.
Hanna told Darren all about the market and its history.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebratin
Episode 893 - FAMILY FUN / FJÖLSKYLDUFJÖR
Today on RÚV English Radio, the free family fun days available to all families and children.
Children and their families can enjoy completely free daytrips to some wonderful destinations, on Mondays throughout the summer. There are three left this year, and the next (https://www.facebook.com/events/1943161196257790) is to the Family Park and Zoo.
The Family Fun days (https://www.facebook.com/pro
Episode 892 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - DIMMUBORGIR, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 891 - LONESOME HUNTER AND THE LANGSPIL'S AMERICAN COUSIN
Today on RÚV English Radio, the connections being made between traditional Icelandic and American music.
Gabriel Dunsmith is one half of Lonesome Hunter (https://lonesome-hunter.bandcamp.com/album/the-reykjav-k-sessions), who play traditional Appalachian music on the mountain dulcimer, which is an American cousin of the Icelandic langspil.
He also runs the trad sessions at Ægir Bar in Reykjavík
Episode 890 - EU ACCESSION TALKS REFERENDUM: THE VIEW FROM BRUSSELS AND BEYOND
Today on RÚV English Radio, a look ahead to the referendum on whether to resume accession talks with the EU.
On 29 August, Icelandic citizens will be asked if they want the country to resume accession negotiations with the European Union. But how are the vote and the debate being viewed in Brussels, and in other EU (and EEA) countries?
RÚV's Brussels correspondent Björn Malmquist joined Darren t
Episode 889 - REYKHOLT CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Today on RÚV English Radio, Reykholt Chamber Music Festival: founded in and held annually around the date of the consecration of Reykholt's church, around the last Sunday of July.
The festival's (https://www.reykholtshatid.is/?lang=en) artistic directors Sigurður Bjarki Gunnarsson and Þórunn Ósk Marinósdóttir told Darren about what's ahead this coming weekend.
RÚV English Radio is heard around t
Episode 888 - HVALNESVITI
Today, RÚV English Radio is in South East Iceland.
Hvalnesviti is one of Iceland's iconic orange lighthouses, between Höfn and Djúpivogur.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebrating Icelandic culture, art, music, language, and much more.
Let us know where you're listening - in Iceland, or around the world - we'd love to give you a mention! Email english@ruv.is
Find
Episode 887 - LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - MEGAS, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
Episode 886 - ANTIKBÚÐIN
Today on RÚV English Radio, the shop that seems to use magic to find room for all that it sells!
Antikbúðin (https://www.facebook.com/Antikbudin) is an antique store in Kópavogur, run and owned by Jónas for over forty years, occupying its ninth location.
The shop is full to the brim with an amazing array of items.
Jónas told Darren about the shop's history, and his lifelong love of antiques.
R
Episode 885 - WARREN APPLEBY: INSPIRED BY ICELAND
Today, the music of a man who found inspiration in and on Iceland's Reynisfjara beach.
Warren Appleby (https://applebyrocks.com/home) is an American rock musician, based in Philadelphia. His track "Iceland's Winter Wind" was inspired by the wildness of Reynisfjara - a place he'd read about before finally getting the chance to visit in person.
Darren spoke to Warren to hear his story.
RÚV Engli
Episode 884 - HJARTA ÁSBRÚAR
Today, RÚV English Radio is in Ásbrú.
Hjarta Ásbrúar (https://hjartaasbruar.com) is a new community project in Ásbrú's old theatre and cinema, Andrews Theater. The idea came from 400 children at the local Háaleitisskóli school, who worked on a vision for the neighbourhood and called for a central "heart" at Ásbrú, a place to come together and have fun. The activities are accessible to everyone an
Episode 883 - ZLATA MARIAN
Today on RÚV English Radio, the music of Zlata Marian.
Zlata Marian (https://soundcloud.com/zlata-marian) is a music producer from Ukraine who has lived in Iceland for two years. She combines live and electronic instruments, and wants to move further into mixing, mastering and sound production.
Darren met Zlata to hear more.
RÚV English Radio is heard around the world and in Iceland, celebratin
Episode 882- LEARNING ICELANDIC WITH RÚV ENGLISH RADIO - AUÐSKILIÐ - (NOT) OFF-ROADING IN ICELAND, in simple Icelandic
Today on RÚV English Radio, some more bite-sized Icelandic language learning, in the latest weekly episode of Auðskilið.
Each week, as part of our regular programming, RÚV English Radio hopes to assist with the learning of Icelandic - https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-01-19-learn-icelandic-with-ruv-english-radio-463826
In weekly shows, called Auðskilið - which means "easily understood" - you can f
