Best Betting Sites in the UK May 2022
We have carefully chosen the best betting sites in the UK so you don't have to. Select the one that is right for you below!
- 1
Established 2020EXCLUSIVE: Bet £10, Get £1018+, Welcome Bonus: New Players only, 1st Deposit, Min Deposit,: £10, max £10 free bet valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement. System bets not eligible. Neteller,Skrill and Paypal not eligible. T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. www.begambleaware.orgFully Mobile-Optimised InterfaceInteractive Football Match Centre‘BoostItOn’ Accumulator Boostsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available27Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?NoCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoBetItOn have ex-Liverpool striker and Champions League winner Djibril Cissé as their brand ambassador and resident football expert. - 2
Established 1997£30 In Free Bets + £10 Casino Bonus When You Place Your First Bet of £10+Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days • To withdraw bonus/related wins, wager the bonus amount 40 times within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Withdrawal restrictions, payment methods, country & Full T&C’s apply. - Full Terms ApplyCreate your own Multiples with Bet BuilderLive Streaming of all UK & Irish RacingDaily Price Enhancements & SpecialsGET40Bonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available16Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downYes888sport offer a wide range of sports betting markets, combined with regular enhanced specials, plus an exclusive 'Acca Club' (bet £20 on Multiples or Bet Builder to get a £5 free bet - every week).
- 3
Established 2012Bet £10 & Get £30 in Free BetsT&Cs apply. New customers on mobile only. 7 days to claim and stake £10 minimum bet at odds of 1.5 or greater to qualify. Free, void, cashed out or partially cashed out bets do not qualify. Max 3x £10 free bets credited on bet settlement. Free bets must be used on 4 or more selections with selection odds of 1.3 or greater. Free bets are non-withdrawable and stake not returned with winnings. 7 day expiry. 18+ BeGambleAware.orgWide Range of In-Play MarketsLive Streaming of UK Horse RacingBetting App for Android & iOS Devicesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available9Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoBetUK have leading National Hunt trainer Neil Mulholland and celebrity horse racing enthusiast and model Vogue Williams as brand ambassadors and betting experts.
- 4
Established 2017Welcome Bonus Bet £10 Get £1518+, Welcome Bonus: New Players only, 1st Deposit, Min Deposit: £10, max £15 bonus, valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at a min. odds of 1/1 (2.00) or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement. System bets no eligible. Click to see full T&CsDual Sportsbook & Casino PlatformDistinctive ‘Moustache’ Branding‘PlayBoost’ Accumulator Boostsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?NoIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available21Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?NoCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoMr.Play Sports has a fun style of its very own, with a memorable handlebar 'tache wherever you look, but it boasts a serious amount of betting markets, plus Premier League & 'Euro Elite' betting battle tournaments.
- 5
Established 2001Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. - Full Terms ApplyAwarded 'Sportsbook of the Year' 2018/19/20/21Live Streaming of 1000's of Events2 Goals Ahead Early Payout Offernot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available31Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoBet365 offer the most comprehensive online sports betting service, including live steaming of a huge range of sports, plus a unique 'Edit Bet' functionality.
- 6
Established 2015Bet £10 Get £20The Promotion operates as a £/€20 Surprise Bet when you place a bet of at least £/€10 on any market with odds greater than or equal to 1.50 as your first bet. The Promotion runs from 09/08/2021 / 12:00 (BST) until 31/12/2021 / 12:00 (BST) (the “Promotional Period”). The Promotion is only valid to: (a) new customers; (b) customers aged 18 years or over. To qualify for the Promotion, participant must deposit and place a £/€10 bet as their first bet on any market (excluding each way) in the sportsbook with odds greater than or equal to 1.50. Only original odds count toward the promotion. Supercharged odds do not count towards the promotion. An accumulation of smaller stakes will not count. Cashed out bets do not count towards this promotion. Only available once per customer. Rewards will be credited to qualifying participants within 48 hours after placing the qualifying bet. Potential winnings from the Surprise Bet are paid in withdrawable cash, excluding the stake. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.Random Supercharged PayoutsWeekly ‘kwiff Club’ Cashback & Free Bets‘Acca Shield’ Refund (if One Leg Fails)not requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?NoIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available13Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?NoCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downYesWhen a customer places a bet with kwiff, they may find that their bet is “kwiffed” - where you receive increased odds after placing your bet.
- 7
Established 2016100% Profit Boost of Up To £100 of WinningsT&Cs apply. New reg only. Claim by placing a min deposit £10 via "My Offers" page within 30 days. Skrill/Neteller deposits excl. 7 days to stake max £10 in-play. Max. extra winnings £100. 18+ BeGambleAware.org. - Full Terms ApplyMobile First Betting Interface'Leo King' Sports Prediction Game24/7 Customer Servicenot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available34Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoLeo Vegas Sports is the sportsbook from this multi-award-winning casino operator, with a focus on mobile users - including a sport betting app for Android & iOS Devices.
- 8
Established 2017Bet £10 Get £30 in Free BetsNew ‘brand’ customers that have yet to make a first deposit on the site. Must be aged 18+. Only valid on first deposit. Not valid with any other offers on the site. Offer expires after 14 days. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly www.begambleaware.org.Rewards Points for Every BetWeekly Free Bet ClubHigh Betting LimitsSPORTS200Bonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available27Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downYesSportNation offer unique money back promotions and special offers, such as 'First Five' where your football bet is paid out as a winner if your team scores first in the first 5 minutes.
- 9
Established 2009Bet £20, Get a £20 Free BetNew customers only. Qualifying bets must be placed before midnight 31/8/21. Free bet credited when your first bet on Glory Goals settles. Qualifying min odds 1.5. Free bet min odds 1.1 and must be used in 7 days. T&Cs apply. 18+. Play Responsibly www.begambleaware.org.Extensive American Sports MarketsUnique 'Glory Goals' BettingRegular Enhanced Odds & SpecialsRZGG20Bonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available12Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?NoCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoRedZone is an American-style sportbook who offer innovative markets, such as 'Glory Goals' where you can bet on two teams playing in different games - selecting who scores most.
- 10
Established 2020Deposit £10 Get £10 Free BetNew players only. Free Bet is a one-time stake of £10, minimum odds of 1.5, stake is not returned. 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Max conversion: £20. Valid for 7 days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+. Play Responsibly www.begambleaware.org.10% Cash-Back on Various Sports'Wager Wars' Cash PrizesFull & Partial Cash-Out Optionsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?NoIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available16Bet Builder
Can you build your own personalised bets?YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?YesAcca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet downNoBritainBet is a relatively new sportsbook and casino platform, which offers Bet Builder and Cash-Outs, plus 24/7 customer service.
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A Closer Look at the UK’s Best Bookmakers
We go the extra mile to ensure that readers have an in-depth understanding of the UK’s best bookmakers before deciding on the best options. While it’s important to always gamble responsibly, we would recommend having accounts with a number of betting sites. This ensures that you can enjoy the best elements of what they have to offer across the board.
We would also urge you to bookmark and return to this page as a point of reference. You will find that we update this section and add in new offers and free bets from UK betting sites when they become available. Some bookies stick with the same welcome bonus while others often refresh their new customer bonus. All listed providers are firmly established and are regarded as industry leaders when it comes to online sports betting. Below is a closer look at some of the best betting sites in the UK:
bet365
bet365 is regarded as the world leader when it comes to online sports betting. It is an independently-owned UK bookmaker with roots in Stoke-on-Trent. bet365 has been one of the fastest-growing betting sites in the United Kingdom over the past 20 years and you can learn all about what this site offers sports bettors in our dedicated bet365 review.
The site has an incredibly user-friendly betting interface whether you’re using desktop, mobile or app. The cash out product is industry-leading and there is also the option to select partial cash out and auto cash out. This bookmaker also leads the way when it comes to in-play betting and has a myriad of live betting options on a 24/7 basis.
There is also the chance to enjoy live streaming through your bet365 account and this is a bookmaker with a number of promotions. This includes best odds guaranteed for UK and Irish racing along with a soccer accumulator bonus and early payouts if the football team you have backed takes a two-goal lead. Ultimately, they score highly across the board.
Click here to sign up to bet365 and claim your welcome bonus today!
Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365
888sport
888sport has come a long way in a short space of time. This bookmaker is part of the 888 Group - which is listed on the London Stock Exchange. They are predominantly known for their flagship product which is 888casino, although the sports betting site now stands on its own two feet thanks to a number of sponsorships. 888sport is currently the official sports betting partner of the NFL in the UK and Ireland.
There is a generous new customer bonus along with a casino bonus to get you started, while they also have a unique feature called the Up For 8 prediction game. This allows customers to play for free and land cash prizes if they make correct predictions. There is a European football multiple offer as well, where you can enjoy a free bet when you place a treble or an accumulator with 4+ legs on the Champions League.
Indeed, 888sport is a bookmaker that specialises in unique promotions, with NFL fans able to play the £10k drive, which is a free NFL Predictor Game. There's also a daily offer which allows customers to secure a free £5 bet when they win at 4/1 or bigger. This is an operator specialising in boosted trebles, enhanced wincasts and special bets along with the other promotions we've outlined. for a detailed breakdown of what 888 offers bettors, check out our in-depth 888sport review.
Click here to sign up to 888sport and claim your welcome bonus today!
£30 In Free Bets + £10 Casino Bonus When You Place Your First Bet of £10+
Paddy Power
Paddy Power is one of the kings when it comes to UK betting sites and you can read a detailed analysis of PP's sports betting offering with our Paddy Power review. This Irish operator is renowned for having a maverick brand, although they are often one of the first to market when it comes to innovations and they have one of the leading mobile apps in the business. Now that Paddy Power has joined forces with Betfair, the major operator known for its betting exchange, we should expect their technological advancement to be rapid.
There are Power Prices available on a daily basis where customers can enjoy odds boosts. This bookmaker also has a reputation for early payouts on antepost/futures markets if you're into football betting and your team looks set to win a particular competition. The Paddy's Rewards Club, meanwhile, is packed with opportunities where free bets and power-ups can be landed.
Paddy Power’s 2 Up, You Win promotion allows you to secure a profit on a team if they go two goals ahead, with Beat the Drop being an attractive competition where you answer 15 questions and then keep any money left over. Paddy’s Skill Zone also allows players to compete for a share of a £5k prize.
Click here to sign up to Paddy Power and claim your welcome bonus today!
Mr Green
Mr Green is another operator originally known primarily for its online casino product, although they now have a cutting-edge online sportsbook which merits respect. Mr Green has now added a UK Gambling Commission licence to go along with its licence in Malta - and that makes this sports betting site a rock-solid destination for sports bettors.
The one striking element of the Mr Green sportsbook is Mr Green’s Jackpot Bets. This allows customers to effectively join a sports betting syndicate in a bid to play for a large pot of money. It’s a simple case of selecting your jackpot and picking the results that you think will win. There is even the option to cash out as your wins increase.
The other thing to note is that Mr Green is owned by UK sports betting giant William Hill and that means that you have a real heavyweight behind this brand. We therefore expect to see rapid advances made by a sportsbook already offering a comprehensive 24/7 sports betting service. For more information on this brand read the Mr Green Sport review compiled by our sports betting experts.
Click here to sign up to Mr Green and claim your welcome bonus today!
BetVictor
One of the longest-established sports betting sites, BetVictor was originally known as Victor Chandler - named after the bookmaker who formed the operation when laying bets at greyhound tracks and racecourses. They’ve recently enlisted ambassadors such as Michael Owen and Harry Redknapp to endorse a brand which has held a sponsorship deal with Liverpool Football Club.
BetVictor has always had a strong reputation for offering the most competitive odds when it comes to Premier League matches. We’ve looked at their prices for other football leagues and they regularly have the stand-out odds on the favourites, with their trading department one of the world leaders. Find out more about this site's competitive odds and great range of markets in Gambling.com's BetVictor review.
The BV Loyalty Club is worth checking out and allows customers to secure free bets by placing a number of wagers, while there are lots of enhanced accumulators available and many of these multiple bets include popular selections. The bet builder allows you to place a same game multi and compile a bet from a number of markets.
Click here to sign up to BetVictor and claim your welcome bonus today!
Bet £5, Get £30
Ladbrokes
Ladbrokes is a sports betting behemoth which was originally part of the “Big Three” in the United Kingdom. This bookie continues to have thousands of retail outlets dotted around the UK, Ireland and certain parts of Europe. Affectionately known as the Magic Sign, this is a bookmaker that leaves no stone unturned when it comes to their online betting site - with in-play coverage and live streaming available. All of these features are looked at in detail in the Ladbrokes review written by our sports betting aficionados.
The 1-2 Free promotion is proving popular with football punters, with £100 available if you can predict the outcome of three matches, while there are free bets up for grabs as well. 5-a-side is another innovative promo where customers pick out different players and hope that they all achieve their individual targets to secure a return.
There are an enormous number of football coupons available when customers want to place a football accumulator, while horse racing fans can take advantage of up to three boosts on a daily basis and there’s the opportunity to land Best Odds Guaranteed when it comes to racing in the UK and Ireland.
Click here to sign up to Ladbrokes and claim your welcome bonus today!
How do we Review the UK's Best Betting Sites?
We review the UK’s best betting sites by registering an account with all available bookmakers - including the latest new betting sites. We then place bets and try out the site in the way any customer would. The team at Gambling.com is made up of experienced, responsible gamblers who place bets on sports such as football, tennis and horse racing on a regular basis. Therefore, we’re well-positioned to review the sites based on our own experiences. Here are some of the criteria that we use when judging each operator.
Licensing and Legislation
It’s imperative that any betting site is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. This is regarded as the ultimate benchmark in gambling regulation and it means that customers can bet in a safe and secure environment. Betting sites with UKGC approval need to demonstrate commitment to responsible gambling, while there also needs to be robust and secure payment methods available.
Welcome Offer
We always recommend taking advantage of a betting site welcome bonus when you register an account. However, it’s important that the bookmaker’s terms and conditions aren’t too prohibitive when it comes to landing a free bet or bonus. Ideally, the wagering requirements would be minimal and the same applies to the minimum odds for a qualifying bet. We always highlight what a customer needs to do in order to secure the welcome offer.
Promo Codes and Offers
It’s often the case that an online bookmaker will provide a promo code or a bonus code for customers wanting to secure a free bet or a bonus. If this is the case for a certain betting site, then we will highlight it and consider it in our review process. Beyond the welcome bonus, there are also other available offers such as money back specials, accumulator bonuses and acca insurance. These are all taken into account when we review.
Mobile Experience
It goes without saying that the majority of betting customers now place sports bets through their mobile devices. Therefore, we don’t just look at the desktop experience when it comes to betting sites but also whether their product is fully optimised for mobile. User-friendly mobile betting apps should be available for Android or Apple users and features like Touch ID will enable bets to be placed quickly. If a mobile app isn't available we expect to see a site that runs smoothly and seamlessly on a mobile browser.
| Brand | iOS App | Android App | Mobile Live Streaming | Bonus | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 2001 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365 | Visit Site |
| Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. | |||||
Established 2020 | No | No | Yes | EXCLUSIVE: Bet £10, Get £10 | Visit Site |
| 18+, Welcome Bonus: New Players only, 1st Deposit, Min Deposit,: £10, max £10 free bet valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement. System bets not eligible. Neteller,Skrill and Paypal not eligible. T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. www.begambleaware.org | |||||
Established 1997 | Yes | Yes | Yes | £30 In Free Bets + £10 Casino Bonus When You Place Your First Bet of £10+ | Visit Site |
| Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days • To withdraw bonus/related wins, wager the bonus amount 40 times within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Withdrawal restrictions, payment methods, country & Full T&C’s apply. | |||||
Market Variety
Variety is the spice of life and it’s certainly important to have plenty of choice when it comes to betting markets. When it comes to betting on football, the best football betting sites will have markets that allow you to express your opinions on the game through betting. We're keen to identify sites where the betting options are practically unlimited and that applies to pre-event and in-play selections. We also like bet builder and cash out options to be readily available.
Industry Reputation
Every betting site promoted on this page has to come with a solid reputation in the gambling industry. It’s not always the case that we’re showcasing bookmakers with decades of experience and it’s also fair to say that reputation can change fairly quickly if operators stop doing the right things. However, we look far and wide to understand the experience that customers have with each betting site and that helps to shape our reviews.
Customer Support
The more available customer support channels, the better. The most popular form of communication is live chat and every betting site featured on this page will have this facility available, ideally on a 24/7 basis. We would expect live chat to be responsive to the extent that someone picks up your query within minutes, while email and toll-free phone number details should also be provided.
Odds and Pricing
This is a hugely important area for many customers. Each bookmaker will offer different prices when it comes to the latest sporting events. We compare the sports betting odds to discover which betting site really comes out on top in this department. We especially look for betting sites that are willing to be aggressive with their odds when it comes to the favourites, along with those that will lay a larger bet and not limit their customers.
| Brand | Sports with Price Boosts | Daily Racing Boosts | Daily Football Boosts | Bonus | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 2001 | 2 | Yes | Yes | Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365 | Visit Site |
| Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. | |||||
Established 2020 | 27 | No | No | EXCLUSIVE: Bet £10, Get £10 | Visit Site |
| 18+, Welcome Bonus: New Players only, 1st Deposit, Min Deposit,: £10, max £10 free bet valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement. System bets not eligible. Neteller,Skrill and Paypal not eligible. T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. www.begambleaware.org | |||||
Established 2017 | 1 | No | Yes | Bet £10, Get £10 + 5 Free Spins | Visit Site |
| Offer for new customers who register via Mobile; Place first £10 bet on sports with 3 legs at odds of 1.3 or greater per leg; Free Bet credited after the qualifying bet has settled; Free Multiple Bet must contain 3 legs at odds of 1.3 or greater per leg; Free Bet stakes not returned; No wagering requirements on winnings; £100 max win; T&C’s apply; 18+ | |||||
VIP Program
Every self-respecting bookmaker should have a VIP Program available. This means that if you’re a customer who likes to bet large amounts on their favourite sports, then a betting site should identify you as a VIP. Ideally, there would be a transparent program so that you can understand what is required to move up through the different VIP levels. You should also be able to secure free bets and possibly even perks like invitations to the latest sporting events based on the frequency of your betting.
Payment Methods Available
UKGC-licensed sports betting sites must have a wide range of payment options available. Similarly, these all need to be reputable and approved by the UK Gambling Commission. We would expect to see debit cards and e-wallet methods heading the list, with instant deposits a must. We also like to see withdrawals being executed quickly so that funds are returned promptly to the customer.
Our Team of Online Betting Industry Experts
Our bookmaker review team is made up of regular active sports bettors, ex-betting industry employees and customer support staff. No one person can cover all aspects of an online betting site review, so we pool resources to make the best betting site guide on the internet.
We cover every bonus and sportsbook change as it happens, so you can be sure that we have the most comprehensive rankings, industry information and detail available at all times. This should make choosing the best betting site easy for you. This is true whether you are just starting out with online betting or a hardened pro who wants VIP support and bells and whistles from your online operator.
The Gambling.com Group team has rightly received awards for this process from industry peers and panels. We pride ourselves on transparency and dedication when it comes to informing our users. We remain committed to backing up our process and we have a unique way of working by improving and striving for progress. This is through recruitment, customer feedback and information gathering that other sites can only attempt to emulate.
How to Open a New Betting Account
The best betting sites make it really simple to open a new betting account. At this stage, we need to reiterate that you need to be aged 18+ and also in a position to gamble responsibly. Providing that you meet these criteria, you can click on “Open Account” or “Join Now” and start the registration process.
Every bookmaker will require the same details from you in order to complete the registration process. This includes name, date-of-birth, postal address and email address. You will also be required to create a username and password so that you can log in to your account each time.
Once you have filled out your details, then your account should be set up. It’s likely that you will be sent an email and you can click on the link to verify your ID. Now comes the part where you can make a first deposit and you simply choose the payment method which is the most convenient before deciding how much money to fund.
Next it's the fun part - placing a bet. You can use the sports menu to find the sport and market which interests you the most. You then tap on the selection that you want to bet on. This selection will then automatically populate the bet slip and you can either add further selections for an accumulator bet or wager on this pick as a single bet.
What the Best Betting Sites Offer
Ultimately, we want the best betting sites to tick as many boxes as possible. We know that customers want a generous welcome bonus to get them started but they also want competitive odds on a regular basis. Slick in-play betting and cash out options are also essential, while you don’t want any issues when it comes to making deposits or withdrawals.
We’ve compiled a list of what we think is important from a user perspective and these are areas where you should demand high-quality service:
Bonus Offers and Free Bets
An introductory offer that is accessible, achievable and valuable should be provided by any top betting site - and there should be no hefty wagering requirements, difficult terms and conditions or hidden loopholes.
You can only secure one welcome offer per betting site, although there is no limit when it comes to the number of betting accounts that you can hold. We recommend that you take advantage of one bonus offer at a time and understand how you can qualify for free bets. Please be aware of the terms and conditions so that you understand the steps that need to be taken along the way.
The best betting sites with free bet offers will apply a multiple of your initial deposit to your account in free bets, which you can then use during a certain period of time across their platform. In general, you can use this on any sport if it's a free sports bet but there might also be a casino bonus element. So if you're a fan of the best online casinos you may just be in luck as well. Other things to note are the turnover requirements and also whether you need to bet at minimum odds.
| Brand | Acca Insurance - Y/N | Loyalty Programme | Sports X Acca Insurance | Acca Insurance - Max Stake | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 2019 | Yes | No | 1 | 50 | Visit Site |
| 18+. New depositing STSbet.co.uk customers only. Promotion valid from 08/06/2021 until further notice. First deposit min. £20. Wager min. £100 on any sportsbook-related markets, single or accumulator bets, pre-match or in-play, with min. odds of 4/5. £5 cash for each £100 wagered. Up to £50 cash in total. Deposit method restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | |||||
Established 1997 | Yes | Yes | 3 | 25 | Visit Site |
| Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days • To withdraw bonus/related wins, wager the bonus amount 40 times within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Withdrawal restrictions, payment methods, country & Full T&C’s apply. | |||||
Established 2007 | Yes | Yes | 40 | 20 | Visit Site |
| New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Mobile exclusive. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Payment method restrictions. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. 18+. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. www.begambleaware.org. | |||||
Variety of Betting Markets
Customers can literally choose from hundreds of betting markets when it comes to the big football leagues. Along with full-time result, both teams to score and total goals, you can also choose Asian lines, cards and corners to give you an alternative angle of attack. It’s also pleasing to see bet builder emerge at the leading betting sites, allowing you to place a same game multi and create a tailored bet.
It might be that there are a handful of betting sites that are brilliant for specific sports. The best football betting sites specialise in football and the same goes for the top tennis bookmakers or best horse racing betting sites. Many customers also like to bet on American sports like basketball, American football, baseball or ice hockey, and it’s important to work out the best operator for the way you bet. We also want the sports betting product to stand alone from casino and poker.
We expect the majority of pre-event markets to be eligible for cash out as soon as you have placed your bet. This can provide a flexible option for customers who want to close out their wager before the final whistle.
Great Betting App or Mobile Platform
When it comes to the quality of a bookmaker's betting platform, there are a couple of key factors that are non-negotiable for customers. First of all, a betting site needs to be easy to navigate and should not be complicated to use. Ideally, you should be able to fill in a betting slip and place a bet within a few clicks. There should also be a search functionality in order to hasten things along.
In an age where almost everybody has a smartphone, it's important that bookmakers offer a state-of-the-art phone application that's available on both iOS for iPhone and Android devices. These apps should be just as easy to navigate and offer the same features as their desktop compatriot. It’s even better if you can log in using Touch ID and personalise your own betting site service.
In-Play Betting
Many of the best in-play betting sites now take more bets in-play than pre-match when it comes to certain sporting events. It’s clear that there’s a big appetite to wager while a sporting event is taking place and a good bookmaker will always cater for that demand. The leading bookies offer in-play betting on a 24/7 basis so that you’re able to enjoy betting on live sport around the clock, with the odds updating in real time.
The obvious advantage to in-play betting is being able to absorb what’s happening on the field of play and make a judgement call in terms of betting markets and odds. It’s an exciting way to wager and we look for betting sites who offer lots of different angles. Some of the markets are really granular and a lot of the bets are settled in a short space of time.
| Brand | In-Play Sports | Cash Out In-Play | In-Play Multis | Live Streaming | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 2001 | 31 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
Established 2020 | 27 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
Established 1997 | 16 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
Min/Max Stakes
The leading betting sites will generally apply a very low minimum stake and you can generally bet from as low as 10p when it comes to the majority of markets. When it comes to the maximum stake, this tends to vary according to the bookmaker and also the specific market. For example, a bookie will take a larger stake for a football market, such as full-time result, compared to some of the lesser markets.
If you happen to place a number of winning bets with a certain betting site, there is a possibility that your stake size might be restricted. There are a number of factors here and the leading bookies tend to look at the overall picture when deciding whether to limit a punter or not. However, the good news is that bookies are getting faster when it comes to payout speed and bet365 are among those sites where withdrawals are processed within hours.
Live Streaming Services
It’s now been several years since the best betting sites started to offer live streaming to their customer base. It’s one of the most exciting innovations of recent times, with customers able to watch live sport through their betting account. The only stipulation is that you usually need to have a funded balance in order to access the high-definition quality streams that are available.
Naturally, the live streams are geo-restricted so you have to bear this in mind wherever you happen to be located. However, some of the best betting sites for live streaming will provide customers with the chance to enjoy a myriad of sporting events on a daily basis, with these events naturally being accompanied by In-Play betting odds too.
| Brand | Live Streamed Sports | Live Football | Live Tennis | Live Horse Racing | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 2001 | 8 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
| Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. | |||||
Established 1997 | 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
| Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days • To withdraw bonus/related wins, wager the bonus amount 40 times within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Withdrawal restrictions, payment methods, country & Full T&C’s apply. | |||||
Established 1999 | 10 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Visit Site |
| Join and place a £10 fixed odds bet at odds of 1/2 or greater. Once the bet is settled, get a £10 free fixed odds bet plus a £5 free Total Goals football spread bet. The second £10 free fixed odds bet and second £5 free Total Goals football spread bet will be credited 24 hours later. Free bet stakes not included in any winnings from the free fixed odds bets. You need to open a full sports spread betting account to use the 2 x £5 free Total Goals football spread bets. Free bets expire in 28 days if unused. Promotions available to 18+ aged individuals who are registered customers of Spreadex. | |||||
Payment Methods
There should be a wide range of payment methods when you make a first deposit and you should be able to fund your betting account instantly without any glitches. We’re also keen for a betting site to facilitate a withdrawal instantly so you get any winnings returned quickly.
Payment methods with the best betting sites can broadly be split into three categories:
- Bank card – where customers register their debit card such as Visa or MasterCard and transfer funds from their bank to betting account
- E-wallet – where customers link their PayPal, Neteller or Skrill account to their betting account and transfer funds from these third party sites
- Other – including bank transfer and pre-paid card options such as Paysafecard. Apple Pay is also an increasingly popular method and works in a similar way to bank card.
Great Customer Service
Strong customer service is always underrated until you need it. If you end up placing sports bets with a bookmaker over a long period of time, it’s a virtual certainty that you will need to reach out to customer support at some point along the way. Therefore, you need to have the confidence that you can make contact with someone in a short space of time.
While live chat is a fantastic way of linking up to a bookmaker representative, we are looking for sites where you avoid a long queue before you get through to someone. After all, you might have a pressing query before you place a bet and therefore want it resolved quickly.
Bonus Offers Available at UK Betting Sites
If you’re searching for new betting offers, then you’ve come to the right place. You might already be an existing customer, although the bookmakers are always coming up with new promotions which can be enjoyed by all players. This might exist in the form of a money-back special, price boosts, enhanced odds or a chance to score a bonus on an accumulator or even get acca insurance.
If you are yet to sign up with a betting site, then you have a wide range of options when it comes to welcome bonuses. The majority of free bets are available when you make a first deposit, place a first bet and this is then settled. Occasionally, you might find the bonus is triggered straight after you deposit funds into your account.
| Brand | Sports with Acca Insurance | Minimum Legs/Selections | Acca Insurance - Max Stake | Bonus | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Established 1997 | 3 | 5 | 25 | £30 In Free Bets + £10 Casino Bonus When You Place Your First Bet of £10+ | Visit Site |
| Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days • To withdraw bonus/related wins, wager the bonus amount 40 times within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Withdrawal restrictions, payment methods, country & Full T&C’s apply. | |||||
Established 2008 | 30 | 5 | 20 | Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets | Visit Site |
| New customers using Promo code H30 only, Min £10/€10 stake, min odds 1/2, free bets paid as 2 x £15/€15, free bets credited after settlement of first qualifying bet, free bets will expire 30 days after the qualifying bet is placed, payment method/player/country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply. 18+. Play Responsibly www.begambleaware.org. | |||||
Established 2007 | 40 | 5 | 20 | Bet £10 Get 20£ in Free bets | Visit Site |
| New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Mobile exclusive. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Payment method restrictions. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. 18+. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. www.begambleaware.org. | |||||
Risk-Free Offers
Certain betting sites will offer new customers a risk-free offer. This means that you can sign up for a betting account, make a first deposit and place a bet knowing that it’s a win-win situation. You will either win with your first wager and get to keep any winnings or alternatively you will get your money back as part of the risk-free promotion. The refund is usually available in the form of bonus cash.
Free Bet
The free bet is the most common form of new customer bonus. It’s great to have the opportunity to place a bet with bonus cash, although you will firstly need to trigger the free bet. This means fulfilling the terms and conditions, with customers usually required to place a qualifying bet. This might need to be placed at minimum odds and the free bet might be subject to the same requirements.
Enhanced Odds
Enhanced odds can also be described as a price boost and this is an ideal way to score some fantastic value on your first sports bet. For example, a team trading at odds of 4/6 might be boosted to 10/1 for new customers only. Therefore, you get the chance to enjoy the perk of backing them at a hugely inflated price and winnings will be paid as either cash or bonus funds.
Matched Deposit
This can be a fantastic way of getting started with a particular betting site. The bookmakers will generally provide you with a 100% matched deposit, meaning that your first deposit is effectively doubled. It is likely that you will need to play through a deposit and the bonus funds a certain number of times and this is known as a wagering requirement.
No Deposit Bonus
Sometimes you might be able to get your hands on a no deposit bonus. As the name suggests, you basically get a bonus simply by registering a betting account and you don’t have to make a deposit. Should you win with this bonus, there will likely be wagering requirements before you can make a withdrawal and you would naturally need to register a payment method to make the transaction.
Deposit Bonus
This is similar to a matched deposit - although it might be that a betting site offers you a 200% deposit bonus or a 50% deposit bonus up to a certain stake. Deposit bonuses can often be obtained by existing customers and can sometimes be described as reload bonuses. This type of welcome offer is often available to customers who want to place sports bets with larger amounts.
Bet X Get X
Some of the best betting sites will have a welcome bonus where they will give you a certain amount of free bet stake once you have bet a nominated amount. For example, it’s not uncommon to see a Bet £10 Get £10 offer and that simply involves staking £10 on a betting selection at specific odds. Once this bet has been settled, then you will get a £10 free bet. Sometimes it might be that you can get a larger amount of free bet stake than the amount you originally wagered.
References
FAQ
What betting sites give you a free bet?
Many of our recommended betting sites will offer free bets or a bonus as part of the sign-up process you will go through when joining them. Be sure to follow the link provided on our site to ensure you receive the offer detailed as it may be exclusive to Gambling.com referrals. More incentives are often available for continued use of the sportsbook you join and that will be subject to betting activity and ongoing existing customer promotions they may offer from time to time.
How long does it take to open an online betting account?
If you have all your information to hand, expect the process to open an online betting account to take around two to five minutes. To complete your verification process, which is sensible to do when you set up your account, and to upload your documents expect to spend a further five to 10 minutes to complete the requirements.
How do I claim my Sign-Up Bonus or Free Bet?
Be sure to use the promo code we provide if needed and go directly from the link on Gambling.com to ensure you will be able to avail of the suggested promotion or offer. Many of the promotions detailed are exclusive to Gambling.com. You will need to follow the instructions provided and make an initial deposit that matches the offer but it should be entirely straightforward and without hidden requirements.
Are betting sites legal?
The betting sites recommended on Gambling.com are fully legal, licensed and subject to ad hoc inspections by the UK Gambling Commission. We do not promote or recommend anyone who isn’t subject to the strictest standards of transparency and security.
How do I place a bet online?
If you have never placed a sports bet online then you need to choose one of the recommended sites we have listed in our best betting sites and go through their online sign-up process. Once set up, deposit a sum of money with your chosen payment method and then find the market or event you wish to bet on from the navigation menu bar. Choose the team, individual or even the horse that you expect to win and want to bet on and select the price that is shown. Then choose the stake you wish to place on that outcome, confirm your wager and you will have placed your first bet.
What is the best online sportsbook?
Check out our best online betting sites here, which we have ranked in order. We've gone through each site in detail and considered a number of factors to that you get the best experience possible from your chosen online sportsbook operator.
What is the best betting app in the UK?
We have ranked the best betting sites and considered which has the best mobile and app options on the market. Check out our regularly updated list to be sure you are making the right choice.
What gambling sites are the best?
As we have explained, some gambling sites on offer are better than others and at Gambling.com we have done the research and tested them personally to give you the definitive list of best online betting sites that are available.
Contributors
Hi, I'm Dean Ryan
"A passionate sports betting broadcaster and journalist with over 15 years spent in the gambling industry."
- Sports Betting
- Odds Compiling
- Horse Racing
Reviewer since June 2016
