Soaps are a cornerstone of British television, reflecting our communities, humour and heartache. From Albert Square to the cobbles, which one holds the strongest grip on the nation?
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EastEnders
Since 1985, the BBC's flagship soap has tackled hard-hitting issues with its iconic cliffhangers and doof-doofs. Dirty Den, Phil Mitchell and the Slaters remain household names.

Coronation Street
ITV's long-runner has charted working-class northern life since 1960, blending sharp humour with devastating storylines. The Rovers Return is British TV royalty.

Emmerdale
What began as a gentle farming drama has evolved into a stunt-heavy ratings powerhouse, with plane crashes, storms and village showdowns aplenty.

Hollyoaks
Channel 4's Chester-set soap aims squarely at younger viewers, fearlessly tackling mental health, identity and social issues with a glossier edge.

Brookside
Phil Redmond's Liverpool-set groundbreaker (1982β2003) pushed boundaries with the body under the patio and Britain's first pre-watershed lesbian kiss.
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