The UK has a history of creating beloved children’s television, and some of the most memorable kids' cartoons have emerged from British studios.
These shows often balance entertainment and education, helping kids learn valuable life lessons while keeping them engaged with colourful animation and imaginative stories.
British kids' cartoons hold a special place in many childhood memories, from quirky characters to heartwarming adventures. Below, we’ve put together five of our favourites…
Everything’s Rosie
No list of the best UK kids cartoons would be complete without a mention of our very own show: Everything’s Rosie! This vibrant and delightful series centres around Rosie, a fun-loving and resourceful little girl. With her iconic ribbon hair, Rosie leads her friends on imaginative adventures in their colourful world. Rosie’s friends include Raggles the Rabbit, Will, Holly, and Big Bear, with unique personalities that kids relate to.
The show emphasises themes of friendship, creativity, and problem-solving. Each episode encourages viewers to explore new ideas, work together, and enjoy everyday challenges.
Peppa Pig
No list of the best UK kids' cartoons would be complete without mentioning Peppa Pig, one of the world's most recognisable and successful animated shows.
Created by Neville Astley and Mark Baker, Peppa Pig has become a global sensation since its debut in 2004. The show centres on Peppa, a cheeky young pig, and her family: Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, and her little brother, George. Peppa’s world is simple yet full of fun. She enjoys jumping in muddy puddles, visiting her grandparents, and going on adventures with her friends. What makes the show so endearing is its ability to tap into the everyday experiences of young children, from learning to ride a bike to dealing with a rainy day.
Peppa Pig is well-loved for its humour, vibrant animation, and relatable stories. The episodes are short—just five minutes each—perfect for young viewers with shorter attention spans!
Bluey
Though technically an Australian production, Bluey has found a huge audience in the UK, and its themes of imagination and family life have resonated with British viewers. This beautifully crafted cartoon follows the adventures of Bluey, a six-year-old blue heeler puppy, and her younger sister, Bingo. Together, they use their boundless imaginations to create games and scenarios that often take them on exciting and sometimes hilarious journeys.
Bluey captures the wonder of childhood play, showcasing the importance of creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. The dynamic between Bluey, Bingo, and their parents—who frequently join in on the fun—shows a supportive and nurturing family environment. While the stories are light-hearted and funny, they are often laced with deeper life lessons about growing up, learning to share, dealing with disappointment, and building relationships.
Sarah & Duck
Sarah & Duck is a beautifully whimsical UK kids' cartoon that has captured children's hearts with its gentle humour and surreal stories. Created by Tim O'Sullivan and Sarah Gomes Harris, the show follows Sarah, a curious and kind seven-year-old girl, and her best friend, Duck, a soft-spoken and loyal duckling. Together, they explore the world around them, often encountering quirky characters like Scarf Lady, the Shallots, and the Ribbon Sisters.
What sets Sarah & Duck apart is its minimalist animation style and focus on the quiet wonder of childhood curiosity. The show’s calm, soothing pace makes it ideal for young children, particularly those who appreciate a more relaxed viewing experience. Each episode is filled with small, delightful adventures that capture everyday moments—like visiting the park, making a cake, or riding a bus—but with a magical twist that sparks the imagination!
Hey Duggee
Created by Grant Orchard, Hey Duggee has quickly become a firm favourite for young children in the UK since its debut in 2014. The show is set at the Squirrel Club, where a big, friendly dog named Duggee leads a group of children on fun and educational adventures.
Each episode focuses on the Squirrels earning a badge for learning a new skill or completing a task, from cake decorating to learning about different shapes. Hey Duggee is beloved for its upbeat energy, witty humour, and vibrant animation. The show's structure—where the Squirrels earn badges—introduces educational content in a natural and fun way. Duggee himself is a calming, reassuring figure, guiding the children as they explore the world.
Whether you're introducing your child to these beloved series for the first time or taking a trip down memory lane yourself, these UK kids' cartoons are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. Join in the conversation on X (@RosienFriends) and stay tuned for more from our blog.