Oldest Surviving Newspaper – A Quick Guide

When you pick up a paper that’s been around for centuries, you’re holding a piece of history. In the UK, the title of "oldest surviving newspaper" belongs to The London Gazette. First issued in 1665, it survived wars, fires, and the rise of digital media. Let’s break down why this old‑school publication still matters.

How It Started

The Gazette began as a simple hand‑written notice for the royal court. Its first issue announced the Great Plague of London and the arrival of the Dutch fleet. It wasn’t a typical news story; it was more like an official memo. Over time, the paper turned into a government record, publishing military promotions, legal notices, and bankruptcy filings.

What kept it alive was its official status. While other papers came and went, the Gazette was the legal mouthpiece for the Crown. That meant people needed it for business, law, and even buying property. The paper’s format stayed plain—black text on white paper—but its relevance grew with every new law and royal decree.

What It’s Like Today

Fast forward to 2025, and The London Gazette is still printed weekly. The print run is modest—just enough for legal professionals, historians, and a few enthusiasts. Most readers now go digital. The Gazette’s website offers searchable archives dating back to the 17th century, letting anyone trace a court case or military promotion with a few clicks.

Even though it’s not a source for breaking news or fun headlines, the Gazette remains a critical reference point. Journalists use it to verify facts, lawyers cite it in court, and researchers dig into centuries of data. Its longevity shows how a simple, official document can outlive flashier rivals.

Why should you care? If you’re curious about how Britain’s legal system evolved, the Gazette is a treasure chest. Want to know the earliest public mention of a city or a historic ship? It’s all there. Plus, seeing how a paper can adapt to the internet while staying true to its roots is a lesson in resilience.In short, The London Gazette isn’t just the oldest surviving newspaper—it’s a living archive of British life. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just a history buff, flipping through its pages (or scrolling its digital archive) gives you a direct line to the past.

So next time you hear someone brag about an ancient newspaper, you now know the real deal. The London Gazette proves that staying useful beats staying flashy every time.