The metabolism and activation of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons has been reviewed and the original contributions made to this area by Professor E. Boyland have been placed in context. The reactions involved in the formation, via epoxides, of hydroxylated derivatives have been outlined and conjugations with glucuronic and sulphuric acids and with glutathione have been discussed. Examples of secondary hydroxylation reactions have been given and the possible role that phenolic hydroxyl groups may play in activating epoxides considered. Mechanism by which polycyclic hydrocarbons are activated by metabolism to epoxides of various types have been included, mainly by reference to benzo[a]pyrene, benz[a]anthracene and chrysene. The tissue and species specific effects of polycyclic hydrocarbons have been referred to and the tissues that may act as targets in man for the initiation of malignancy by polycyclic hydrocarbons mentioned.