The Best Betting Sites In The UK (TOP 5)
Market choices, odds, and user interface are key elements to consider when choosing a bookmaker. The main purpose of this review is to help you choose the best bookmaker. Experts from our team compiled all the key criteria and analysed legal bookmakers in the UK. We will tell you what to look out for and how to make your game safer and more enjoyable.
Bookmaker | Bonus | Best for |
---|---|---|
Bet £10 Get £50 in Free Bets |
Promotions | |
New customers only. Register, place a first wager £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply. | ||
Bet £10 Get £30 in Free bets for new customers |
In-Play | |
Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying stakes. Min odds, wager and payment method exclusions apply. Time limits and T&Cs apply | ||
100% up to £50 welcome bonus |
Free Bets | |
New bettors; Code SPORT; Wager deposit & bonus 8x; Max qualifying stake=initial bonus; Valid 60 days; Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply; T&C apply; 18+ | ||
Get £60 From A Minimum £10 Stake |
Horse racing | |
Open a new account at William Hill using the promo code T60 and opt in on the Vegas promotion page. Deposit a minimum of £10 to receive a £20 bonus for selected games on Vegas, which carries a 30x wagering requirement, and place a wager of at least £10 at odds of 1/2 (1.50) or greater on any sportsbook market. After the qualifying stake settles, you'll receive a £40 bonus for any available sportsbook market. T&C apply | ||
Bet £5 Get £20 in Free Bets |
Sports coverage | |
Create a new Ladbrokes online account and make a deposit of £5 or more. Place cumulative qualifying stakes to a total of £5 win or £5 each-way at odds totalling 1/2 or greater. You’ll be credited with 4 x £5 Free Bets as soon as your stakes are settled. Once your Free Bets are credited, you’ll have 7 days to use them. It must be wagered in full amounts, and can be used on any online sportsbook market (excluding totes and pools). Full T&Cs apply. |
Below, we explain why we have chosen these particular bookmakers as the best in the UK.
Please also note that the order of the bookmakers is conditional. We are not creating a TOP. These are the best bookmakers, but they are all good in their own way and may suit someone more or someone less. It all depends on your expectations and needs.
Bet365
It should come as no surprise that Bet365 is one of our top choices in the UK. We've put them in first place for their live service, but they excel in other areas too. With over 48 sports on offer, including popular ones like football, tennis, and basketball, the bookmaker has something for everyone. The platform is known for its competitive odds, particularly in pre-match scenarios. Features include the Bet Builder, payout (full, partial, automatic) and a robust live streaming service for In-Play competitions. Although it lacks a VIP loyalty programme and telephone support, Bet365's extensive coverage makes it a top choice.
Pros ✅ :
-
Over 48 sports
-
Lucrative bonus offers for new and existing customers
-
Advanced features like Bet Builder and Cash Out
-
Extensive coverage of horse racing tournaments
Cons 👎 :
-
No VIP or loyalty program
-
Lack of telephone support
Bonus: Deposit £5 or more within 30 days of registration to receive 300% of that amount in Bet Credits, up to £30. To use Credits, you must place a wager equal to your deposit (max £10) within 30 days. Bet Credits expire if not used within 90 days. T&Cs apply
Betfred
With over 1,600 betting shops across the UK, Betfred has established itself as one of the largest and most reputable bookmakers in the country. The platform is known for its extensive range of promotions, including a wide variety of horse racing and greyhound bonuses. It also offers features such as Totepool. However, it does fall short in some areas, such as limited coverage of Australian and New Zealand horseracing and a lack of Esports markets. The Betfred site itself is one of the most user-friendly you'll find. They also offer an optimised app for both iOS and Android devices.
Pros ✅ :
-
800+ outcomes for top fixtures
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Bet Builder and Bet Request features
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Numerous offers for horse and greyhound racing
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Totepool on horse races
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Safer gambling tools
Cons 👎 :
-
Limited coverage of Australian and New Zealand horses
-
Few live streams available
Bonus: Register and deposit £10 or more using a Debit Card within 7 days. Place a £10+ stake on qualifying Sportsbook markets at odds of Evens (2.0) or greater. After your stake settles, receive £30 in Free Bets within 10 hours. Bonus must be used within 7 days. Full T&Cs apply.
10bet
There are many reasons why we rate 10bet so highly. One of the most attractive aspects of this sportsbook is the range of Free Bets available on a whole host of sports. The platform impresses with its wide range of betting options and over 35 different sections. Additionally, bookmaker offers features such as Cash Out, Acca Insurance, and Odds Boost. Despite its strengths, It does have some drawbacks, such as limited live streaming options and longer verification times.
Pros ✅ :
-
Over 35 sections, including politics and Esports
-
User-friendly interface and easy navigation
-
Regular promotions for major tournaments
Cons 👎 :
-
Verification process can take up to 7 days
-
Limited live streaming options
Bonus: Join with code SPORT, make a deposit of £50 or more, and receive a 100% matched offer up to £50. You’ll need to wager both the deposit and bonus eight times on eligible bets within 60 days to withdraw the winnings. Exclusions apply to certain payment methods, so review the terms carefully. T&C apply
William Hill
A long-standing name in the betting industry, William Hill is renowned for its extensive coverage of sports, particularly football and horseracing. With over 2000 results available for major football matches, WH offers one of the widest selections of markets in the UK. The platform features a Bet Builder tool, daily bonuses such as risk-free bets or odds boosts, and regular price boosts labelled "EPIC odds". The streaming options are decent but could be better, and customer support is mainly available via live chat or Twitter, which may not suit everyone.
Pros ✅ :
-
2000+ options on top football
-
Bet Builder with daily bonuses
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Regular Enhanced odds and "EPIC odds"
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Many free horse racing streams
-
Easy-to-use mobile app for iOS and Android
Cons 👎 :
-
Website can be overwhelming due to too much information
-
Limited support options, with no phone support
Bonus: Register, deposit £5 or more, and place £5 at odds of 1/2 or greater. Receive 4 x £5 Free Bets. Bonus must be used within 7 days. T&C apply
Ladbrokes
One of the oldest bookmakers, it offers a wide range of sports markets, with over 2000 options on major events such as the UEFA Champions League. The platform also offers a variety of promotions, including Best Odds Guaranteed for horse and greyhound racing. While the site offers a decent live streaming service and a user-friendly app, bonus terms can be complex and finding customer support can be a challenge. Despite these issues, Ladbrokes remains a solid choice for punters looking for extensive markets and decent promotions.
Pros ✅ :
-
Over 2000 outcomes for top events, especially strong in football
-
Decent bonuses and promotions
-
Live streaming of NBA and horse racing
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Request a Bet feature
Cons 👎 :
-
Odds could be more competitive
-
Customer support is not easily accessible
Bonus: Deposit £5 or more, place it at odds of 1/2 or greater, and receive 4 x £5 Free Bets. Use within 7 days or they expire. Full T&Cs apply.
Best Betting Sites by Sport
If you wager on a specific sport, it's important to find the best bookmaker for that sport. We've categorised the top UK betting sites according to their strengths in different sports, such as football, horse racing and golf. This guide will help you quickly identify the best options, including details of welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions.
TOP 3 Football ⚽
Every online bookmaker in the UK offers markets on different leagues and competitions. The best football betting sites compete with promotions, low odds and features. Here are our top three.
Betfred
Top choice for wager on football, known for its promotions like Double Delight and Hat-trick Heaven, which are popular among football punters. The platform also offers boosted odds, Bet Builder and a solid live-streaming service for selected matches.
10bet
A variety of football markets (around 1000) and competitive odds (5,63% margin) are offered by 10bet on thousands of matches around the world. Their In-Play options are robust, and they frequently offer promotions such as Acca Boosts and Early Payouts, which make wagering on football even more rewarding.
Hollywoodbets
It is a new betting site in UK football betting but quickly gaining popularity due to its sponsorship of Brentford FC and its vast array of football outcomes (more than 2000). The platform offers Acca Insurance and Acca Boost promotions.
TOP 3 F1 & Motor Racing 🏎️
Motor racing, especially Formula 1, is a major draw for punters, with most betting sites offering odds on various motorsports, including Motorbikes and Supercars. The top sites provide in-depth coverage and advanced features. Here are our top three picks for F1 and Motor Racing events.
Bet365
The bookie leads in motor racing betting, providing a wide range of markets on different motorsports. For Formula 1, Bet365 provides odds on everything from individual races to outright winners, including practice and qualifying sessions. Additionally, Bet365 covers a wide array of other motorsports, including Motorcycles, NASCAR, and Formula E.
Unibet
This is another excellent choice for Formula 1 and motorsports enthusiasts. The site offers a broad selection of odds on F1, Supercars, and NASCAR, including both race and outright odds. Unibet is favoured by many UK bettors for its frequent promotions and Free Bet offers. The platform also provides live streaming and In-Play options.
888sport
888sport impresses with its extensive selection of markets for Formula 1 and other motorsports. In addition to outrights, race-specific wagering is available. It also offers a feature that highlights the top 5 motor racing bets to help you make informed decisions.
TOP 3 Cricket 🥎
Cricket is a hugely popular sport to wager on, especially during major events like the Ashes, IPL, and World Cup. The best cricket betting sites offer a variety of markets and competitive odds, so you can find the best deal.
Unibet
The complete platform for cricket betting, with plenty of markets on all the major matches and tournaments. Whether you're wagering on the IPL, World Cup, or domestic leagues, Unibet has you covered with extensive options, including Player Multis betting. The site also provides live streaming of selected matches.
10bet
The strongest cricket platform, with a huge number of markets available (around 70), including player stats options. The site is known for its attractive bonuses, such as £6 live Free Bet when you stake £40+ on cricket matches (Hit for six! promotion).
Betway
From the IPL to the Rwandan Premier League, Betway offers extensive markets on every major cricket event (over 80). Their #betyourway feature allows you to create custom bets, and live match stats are available to help you make your selections.
TOP 3 Rugby 🏈
Rugby markets is well-supported by most bookmakers, with many sponsoring major teams and competitions. Here are the top three betting sites for rugby, offering the best features and overall experience.
William Hill
WH provides competitive odds and a multitude of markets for both rugby league and union. The site covers global rugby events, including the Six Nations, Rugby World Cup, and Challenge Cup. William Hill also offers frequent promotions and bonus offers tailored to major rugby events.
888sport
It is another solid option for rugby, with extensive coverage of both men’s and women’s rugby across domestic and international matches. The site features odds on popular tournaments and competitions, including those in Australia, France, and the USA. 888sport also provides a variety of promotions that can be used for rugby.
Star Sports
The bookie offers a full range of rugby markets (more than 100), covering both League and Union disciplines. It offers solid odds for UK and Australian matches, with a robust In-Play service that includes detailed match stats and animations.
TOP 3 Horse Racing 🏇
Around £100 billion is wagered annually on horse racing around the world. In the UK alone, the market is worth around £3 billion. Given its popularity, most bookmakers offer numerous horse racing markets, but only a few stand out. Here are the top three betting sites for horse racing.
Betfred
The sponsor of the St Leger Festival is also notable for its frequent promotions. You can take advantage of offers like Lucky Bonuses, Tricast Bonuses, and Extra Races Places. Betfred also excels in live streaming, offering access to a wide range of domestic and international races. If you're serious about horse racing, Betfred's combination of market depth and promotional offers makes it a top contender.
William Hill
One of the most established names in horse racing, offering great odds on races around the world. The site's Betting TV feature shows live streams of horse and greyhound racing with live commentary. William Hill also offers a variety of promotions such as Extra Place Races and Lengthen Your Odds.
10bet
Also a top choice for horse racing enthusiasts due to its excellent live streaming service. Just log in and enjoy. You can watch races from the UK, Ireland, and even Italy, France, and Argentina. 10bet offers markets on races from Europe, the USA, South America, Australia, and beyond. Additionally, the bookmaker frequently provides promotions, including Free Bets and Best Odds Guaranteed.
TOP 3 Boxing 🥊
Boxing remains a highly popular sport for bettors, particularly during major events. Almost every bookmaker covers boxing, but a few are distinguished for their comprehensive markets and special promotions. Here are the top three betting sites for boxing.
The Pools
The bookie has quickly gained a following in the boxing community. Despite being relatively new to the scene, it offers impressive odds and markets on both men’s and women’s boxing, from small bouts to the biggest events.
Bet365
It offers a wide range of boxing markets, including Fight Outcome (5-Way) and Round Betting, as well as some Outright markets on tournaments such as Prizefighter. In addition, In-Play markets allow you to place wagers during the action. Boxing promotions are less frequent. However, Bet365 do occasionally offer Price Boosts or Free Bets on major events.
All British Casino
This site is known primarily for its casino offerings, but it also provides a sportsbook with a strong focus on boxing. The site offers a variety of markets, covering everything from small local fights to major international bouts. The Always 10% Cashback offer is a notable benefit.
TOP 3 Darts 🎯
Darts has seen a resurgence in popularity, both as a sport and a way to place bets. Most bookmakers offer darts odds, but some set themselves apart for their special features and thorough coverage. Here are the top bookmakers for darts betting.
10bet
The site covers a multitude of tournaments, including Premier League Darts and the PDC Championship, with various markets available for each event. You can also get £5 Free Bet for wagering £40+ on darts.
Quinnbet
Quinnbet offers an appealing darts platform, covering lots of competitions from around the world. Another attractive aspect of this site is its range of daily and weekly promotions, many of which can enhance darts markets.
NetBet
There are more than 20 darts markets available at NetBet, covering both major tournaments and smaller competitions. The bookie also offers expert tips and statistics to assist you.
TOP 3 Tennis 🎾
Tennis is one of the most popular sports to bet on, with a packed schedule of tournaments throughout the year. From the Grand Slams to the smaller ATP and WTA events, these top bookmakers offer the best tennis betting service.
Spreadex
There are over 100 Tennis markets available at Spreadex. They offer both fixed odds and spread betting, giving you flexibility in how you wager. With coverage of a huge number of matches, Spreadex stands out as a top choice for tennis punters. While the platform is feature-rich, the sheer volume of markets available can make it feel cluttered.
Bet365
The bookmaker excels in in-play tennis, offering comprehensive coverage of all men's and women's competitions, including ATP, WTA and ITF events. Their platform features live streaming, live betting and a wide range of promotions. The 70% Tennis Acca Boost and Tennis Retirement Guarantee are particularly attractive to regular tennis players.
Betfred
They offer an impressive range of tennis markets (over 50) covering all the major tournaments and many smaller events. Their range of promotions, such as price boosts on outright Grand Slam winners, add value to their already strong tennis line.
TOP 3 Golf 🏌️♂️
Golf betting has gained popularity, especially around major tournaments. These top bookmakers provide excellent odds, markets, and features tailored for golf enthusiasts.
Bet365
It is a leader in golf betting, which has a full range of odds and markets on all major tournaments. The site frequently features Bet Boosts for prominent events. Whether you're interested in outright winners, regular match bets or special markets, Bet365 covers it all with top-class promotions.
Hollywoodbets
The bookmaker focuses on outright markets for major golf tournaments. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer to bet on the overall result with special outrights for the major winners. While Hollywoodbets is known for its football markets, its golf offering is also impressive.
Boylesports
The site offers a wide range of golf tournament options, from the majors to smaller competitions. The site offers a solid mix of outright and match results, with regular promotions.
TOP 3 Greyhounds 🐕
This is a fast-paced sport that attracts many punters. These top bookmakers offer the best odds, markets, and features for greyhound betting.
William Hill
Everything William Hill does well in horse racing can be applied to dogs. The site offers competitive odds on a range of greyhound meetings, as well as Bet Boosts. William Hill's TV offers free live streaming of selected races, making it a top choice.
LeoVegas
The odds on greyhound racing at LeoVegas are competitive, and there are numerous markets to choose from. The site also features specials and an ante-post section, which is a major plus for greyhound racing fans.
Betway
Another robust greyhound betting platform with competitive odds and live streaming of selected races. This bookmaker provides a solid mix of markets and promotions.
TOP 3 Esports 🖥️
These top bookmakers offer extensive markets and features to bet on Esports.
Bet365
Here you'll find plenty of markets for top CS:GO, LoL and Dota 2. The site's Bet Boosts and live streaming features make it one of the best options for serious Esports punters.
Betway
The Betway Esports section offers more than 60 markets and live streaming options for Esports bettors. Whether you’re wagering on Dota 2, League of Legends, or any other major Esports title, Betway provides relevant promotions.
All British Casino
From Counter-Strike to League of Legends, you’ll find some of the most extensive Esports odds at this UK bookmaker. The site is especially appealing for those who appreciate in-depth market coverage and live options.
Betting sites by category
Some punters prioritise a variety of casino games, while others might look for specialised options like exchanges, spread betting, or Cash Out features. This guide highlights the top bookmakers across various categories, helping you choose the best one that suits your needs.
Casino Games 🎲
Betfred
The casino section includes popular slots, blackjack, baccarat, and game shows, all provided by top developers like Playtech and IGT. While the variety of games is impressive, it’s the user-friendly interface and dedicated mobile apps that make Betfred a top choice for casino enthusiasts.
All British Casino
A well-organised games lobby at All British Casino features a wide variety of slots, table games and live dealer games. The site allows you to search by provider or game type to find your favourite titles. With a strong focus on live casino offerings, the All British Casino brand lives up to its name and provides a compelling experience for those who enjoy the thrill of real-time play.
Parimatch
Parimatch is another excellent option, offering a broad selection of casino games alongside its renowned Sportsbook. Players can enjoy a variety of video slots, table games, and live casino options.
Betting Exchanges 💰
Betting Exchanges allows players to set their own odds. There's one important aspect to consider: the amount of commission you'll have to pay.
Matchbook
Matchbook betting exchange offers low commission rates and plenty of markets. The platform is particularly attractive to those who prefer to set their own odds. Another big plus is that Matchbook has an easy to use interface and efficient market access.
Betfair Exchange
It is one of the most popular betting exchanges, providing extensive markets and competitive odds. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface and a strong community of experienced players, so there's a real intellectual battle going on here.
Smarkets
Smarkets offers a low-commission platform with a simple, intuitive design. It’s particularly known for its transparency and reliability.
Spread Betting Sites 💵
Please note that spread trading requires a different approach to standard betting. We advise anyone wishing to take part in spread betting to thoroughly research how it works before parting with any of their funds.
Spreadex
Spreadex is a leader in the spread betting industry, offering a comprehensive platform for sports and financial markets. The site also provides fixed odds and casino options.
Sporting Index
Sporting Index is renowned for its focus on spread betting, offering a wide choice of markets and unique options. The platform is user-friendly and provides extensive support to help navigate the complexities of spread betting.
Cash Out Betting Sites 💳
Most sportbooks offer their cash-out function via your In-Play betting slip. If your wager is eligible for early pay out, the option will appear at the bottom of the slip.
Bet365
Its robust Cash Out feature allows you to take control of your stakes in real-time. The platform offers Full, Partial and Auto options.
Betfair
The site offers one of the best Cash Out features, with full and partial options on both their exchange and sportsbook. It's available on singles, multiples and accumulators across a range of sports including football, tennis and horse racing. With the partial option, you can use a slider to decide how much of your stake amount you want to return.
BoyleSports
The site provides full Cash Out on a variety of sports, including football, tennis, snooker, darts, rugby, cricket, golf, baseball, and basketball. Also noteworthy is the successful implementation of the mobile app feature.
Best Bet Builder Bookmakers 🎰
The ability to create your own combined bet within a single event has taken the industry by storm in recent years. Most sites previously required customers to send them their creations via social media. While this is still an option, most sites offer a Bet Builder tab where you can quickly create a bet. Several factors will determine the best bookmakers for Bet Builders in 2024, including the range of sports, the interface and the number of selections they offer.
10bet
The platform allows punters to combine up to 10 selections from a single event into one stake.
Bet365
Bet365’s Builder is one of the most extensive in the industry, covering nine sports and offering up to 12 selections.
Unibet
Unibet’s Builder is particularly strong in football, also offering up to 12 selections in pre-match.
Best Bookmakers for In-Play 🎱
Almost every bookmaker you can find online offers some form of live betting, with many offering live streams of selected events alongside their live odds. Much depends on the convenience of the interface, the depth of the event line and the variability of outcomes, as well as the speed with which the odds are updated.
Bet365
The industry leader in In-Play, offering live odds on a wide range of sports and events. The platform’s live streaming capabilities, Cash Out feature, infographics and comprehensive market coverage make it a top choice for all levels of bettors.
Virgin Bet
It provides extensive In-Play options in tennis with ATP, WTA, ITF and UTR events. The platform also offers live streaming and detailed match statistics.
LiveScore Bet
The bookmaker stands out for broadcasting live Esports events. Infographics and match statistics are included in the platform's In-Play section.
Best Odds Guaranteed 📈
This promotion is generally provided on selected horse racing, though many operators also open this offer to greyhound punters. With Best Odds Guaranteed you get the best odds offered by the bookmakers, whether you take the price at the start of the day or at the start of the race.
Betfred
Find the Best Odds Guaranteed on selected UK and Irish horse races. The promotion applies to both early prices and starting prices, providing added value.
William Hill
Best Odds Guaranteed feature is available for UK and Irish horse racing, starting from 10:00 on race day. The promotion ensures that you receive the highest odds, whether you take an early price or the starting price.
Bwin
Bwin extends its Best Odds Guaranteed offer to horse and greyhound racing events in the UK and Ireland.
Providing the Best Odds 📊
Competition between bookmakers in England is quite fierce, so offering attractive odds is one way to attract their regular players. However, there is no single bookmaker on the market that offers better odds on all lines. Look for the sport you wager on most often and compare the results for popular matches to understand the sportsbook margins.
Quinnbet
This British bookmaker has some of the highest odds on all European football (a margin of just 4.17%). They also have a 'Boring Draw' which will refund up to £10 Free Bets if the game ends 0-0.
William Hill
The bookie consistently offers competitive odds across multiple sports, including football, tennis, and basketball (average margin is 5.86%). The platform’s low margins make it a top choice for those seeking value in their bets.
QuinnBet
The sportsbook is known for its low margins and therefore competitive odds, especially on football and basketball (average margin is 5.94%).
Acca Insurance
Accumulator Insurance is a good way to protect your stakes as much as possible. Normally, with this promotion, if one leg of your Acca fails you, you can get your stake back either as cash or as a Free Bet.
Betfair
Betfair’s Acca Edge offers an innovative form of insurance, refunding your stake as cash if one leg of your accumulator loses. The promotion applies to trebles and above, with no maximum refund limit.
Paddy Power
PP’s Acca Insurance covers accumulators with five or more selections, refunding your stake as a Free Bet if one leg loses. The promotion is available on all sports except horse racing and greyhounds.
Hollywoodbets
Acca Insurance on football accumulators, refunding your stake as a Free Bet if one leg is lost. The promotion is valid on accumulators with at least five selections and cumulative odds of 4/1 or greater.
Asian Handicap Betting 🎰
The Asian handicap system is popular because it offers better odds and value by levelling the playing field and minimising the bookmaker's profit margin. It is particularly favoured by professional punters.
888sport
It is the top choice for Asian Handicap markets and competitive odds.
Lucky 15’s
This is another popular form of accumulator, especially when it comes to horse racing. Many bookmakers offer Lucky 15 as an option, along with Yankee, Trixie and Patent bets.
Our choice for Lucky 15 betting is undoubtedly Betfred. As we've looked at in this review, in addition to standard wagers, it offers a Lucky 15 specific promotion where customers can receive bonus money on top of their winnings on successful predictions.
Live Streaming
If you are placing bets in action mode, it is very convenient to be able to watch the event live on the bookmaker's website without being distracted by other resources. Bookmakers cannot compete with the major TV channels for the rights to the big events but generally offer broadcasts for most other tournaments. Here's who to look out for.
Bet365
One of the most comprehensive live streaming services in the industry, covering sports like football, tennis, and horse racing. The platform’s video and audio streaming is available to all customers with an active account.
SkyBet
Thanks to the channel of the same name it provides access to over 2,400 live events, including football, horse racing, and tennis. The platform requires a funded account or a recent wager to access the streams.
QuinnBet
The platform offers live streaming primarily for horse racing and select football events. It also provides detailed infographics for events without live streams.
Football Accumulators ⚽
The more selections you add to your Acca, the more risk you take. We've all heard stories of punters winning huge amounts of money on relatively small stakes, but these are few and far between. While accumulator betting sites can offer big rewards, it’s essential to consider the stake you’re risking.
Betfred
It has promos like Acca Flex, which provides up to a 100% cash bonus on successful accumulators. The platform also offers insurance on accumulators that lose by one leg.
CopyBet
CopyBet’s Accumulator Bonus adds up to 20% to your winnings, depending on the number of legs in your coupon. The platform’s flexible accumulator options make it a strong choice for football betting.
Virgin Bet
For regular players who place four or more accumulators with a minimum of four selections, the site offers a weekly Acca Free Bet.
Top Bookmakers Compared: Find Your Perfect Betting Site
In the table below, we've put together a summary of what's available at the UK online bookmakers we've analysed in this review.
Bookmaker | App | Sports Available | Streaming? | In-Play? | Casino? | Live Casino? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bet365 |
Yes |
45 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Betfred |
Yes |
21 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
10bet |
Yes |
36 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Star Sports |
Yes |
26 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Hollywoodbets |
Yes |
25 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Unibet |
Yes |
36 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
888sport |
Yes |
29 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Betway |
Yes |
32 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
William Hill |
Yes |
37 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
The Pools |
Yes |
30 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
AllBritishCasino |
Yes |
30 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Quinnbet |
Yes |
32 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
NetBet |
Yes |
43 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Spreadex |
Yes |
24 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
LeoVegas |
Yes |
38 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Boylesports |
Yes |
42 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Best Betting Promotions by Category
As we've seen in our guide, there are many different types of betting offers that bookmakers offer their customers. Note that all bonuses come with some terms and conditions that must be met, so make sure you read the terms and conditions before attempting to claim any offer. Let's take a look at the most common types of promotions you'll come across.
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Welcome Bonus: Standard offer for new customers. These can vary greatly, with some matching your initial deposit, while others reward you with a promotion after you deposit and place a qualifying stake.
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Free Bet: It only be used to place wagers and typically cannot be withdrawn as cash. If a Free Bet wins, the stake is not returned, only the profit is credited to the bettor's account. For instance, 10bet regularly provides Free Bets when you wager a £40 on certain sports.
-
Acca Boost: Your winnings on successful accumulations will be increased by the additional percentage. This is based on the number of events in your coupon.
-
Price Boosts: Offered during major events, Enhanced Odds are a type of Price Boost, where the odds are significantly raised, with the bonus portion usually paid out as a Free Bet.
-
Early Payout: Some bookmakers offer promotions, where your stake is settled as a winner before the event has concluded if the team you backed gains a significant lead. For example, in football, a team must lead by two goals for at least five minutes in a match to win.
-
Loyalty Programme: This offer rewards regular bettors with points or other benefits that can be redeemed for gifts, or other perks.
-
No Risk Bets: If your stake loses, the bookmaker refunds your stake, typically in the form of a Free Bet.
-
Contests: Some sites host contests where you can predict the outcomes of popular events. Here you can get online rewards as well as physical gifts.
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Reload Bonuses: These promotions are offered to customers who make additional deposits into their accounts. Typically, bookmakers will match a percentage of the deposit.
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Referral Programme: Simply refer new players to the bookmaker and get rewarded when they deposit.
The table below outlines some of the best current offers and their promotion types. Please note that all offers are available to customers aged 18 or over. Promotions have specific terms and conditions that you must read and understand before participating. Promotions are time-sensitive, so please check the expiry dates in the terms and conditions.
Bookmaker 🎰 |
Bonus 💰 |
Type of Promo
|
Sports Valid
|
---|---|---|---|
10bet |
2 is a Win |
Early Payout |
Football |
Betfred |
Lucky Bonus |
Cash Bonus |
Horse Racing |
Hollywoodbets |
Acca Bonus |
Cash Bonus |
All Sports |
Unibet |
Bet Builder Boost |
Odds Boost |
All Sports |
William Hill |
Lengthen Your Odds |
Odds Boost |
Horse Racing |
Below is an overview of some of the best welcome bonuses for 2024.
Bookmaker 🎰 |
Qualifying Stake 💵 |
Bonus Amount 💰 |
Key Terms
|
---|---|---|---|
£10 |
£30 |
Min deposit requirement. Free bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bet. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. T&Cs apply | |
£10 |
£50 |
Register and place £10 or more on your first Sports bet at odds of Evens (2.0) or greater, and get £50 in Free Bets credited to your account within 10 hours of your first stake being settled. Full T&Cs apply. | |
£10 |
£50 |
New bettors; Code SPORT; Wager deposit & bonus 8x; Max qualifying stake=initial bonus; Valid 60 days; Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. T&C apply | |
£10 |
£60 |
Register at William Hill with code "T60" and opt-in on the 'Vegas' promotion page. Deposit and bet a minimum of £10 on selected Vegas games, with a 30x wagering requirement on the £20 bonus. Also, place a £10 wager at 1/2 (1.5) or greater on any sportsbook market, using either additional deposits or winnings from Vegas. Post-qualification, receive a £40 bonus for sportsbook markets, excluding Virtuals. Wager this bonus within 7 days. T&C apply | |
£25 |
£50 |
Free bets and spins must be claimed within 28 days of opening. Free bet/spin-stake not included in any winnings. Full T&C apply. |
How We Rate UK Betting Sites
When evaluating UK betting sites, we consider several key factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable time. Here are the most important aspects to keep in mind before choosing a bookmaker.
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Licence and Regulations
The most crucial aspect. We recommend playing only on sites listed by the UK Gambling Commission. This ensures the safety of your funds and that the bookmaker provides its clients with tools that can help them.
We are constantly looking for new, high-quality bookmakers, so we have developed criteria developed by our experts that we would like to share with you.
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Odds and Markets
Your bookmaker should offer you the markets you wish to wager on. If you’re looking for more exotic markets than the standard ones, ensure your bookmaker can provide this.
Equally, you must trust your bookmaker to offer you competitive odds. While there’s not a great deal of difference in odds like 5/2 and 3/1, over a long period of time, taking the shorter odds can add up to some decent profit lost.
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New Customer Offers
An excellent way to start with a new bookmaker is by taking advantage of a welcome bonus. Many betting sites offer Free Bets for new customers, whereas others provide deposit matches. Note that the terms and conditions for new customer offers are stricter than those for existing customer bonuses.
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Existing Customer Promotions
Another sign of a good bookmaker is the number of promotions available for existing customers. Examples of good existing customer promotions are Acca Boosts, Cash Bonuses and Free Bets.
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Payment Options
Sharing financial information about your gambling activities with your bank can be daunting. Many people like to use online wallets to add extra security to their financial transactions. The bookmaker of your choice needs to offer you a variety of payment methods to choose from so that you can feel confident. It's also important that your sportsbook doesn't charge any fees for deposits and withdrawals. While most sites don't charge a fee, you might come across one or two that do.
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Live Betting and Streaming
In-Play betting is a common way of placing wagers. The best sites offer live betting on various sports throughout the day. In our experience, the best sites also provide statistics and live commentary to help you with your choices, such as 10bet’s Match Tracker.
Live streaming is also a benefit to online bettors. Most of the operators have live streams of UK horse racing. In addition, we’ve found that, in general, the best sites only require an active account or a relatively small stake placed on the event you want to watch to unlock the stream.
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Mobile Betting
The ability to bet using your mobile device is now a standard feature. The best sites offer both Android and iOS apps. All features found on the desktop site should be available as quickly as possible using the application.
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Customer Service
Reliable customer support is essential. Top bookmakers offer 24/7 support, including live chat with real agents. This ensures that your problems can be resolved quickly.
The top betting sites are…
Here at Legalbet we have also categorised the top betting sites and their features to make them easier for you to find. They are:
By Sport: Football | Tennis | Boxing | Cricket | Snooker | Golf | UFC | Darts | Greyhound | Rugby | Horse Racing | Basketball | Baseball | Formula 1 | Ice Hockey (NHL) | Volleyball | Cycling | Netball | AFL
By Payment Systems: PayPal | Skrill | Klarna | Boku | Debit Cards | Apple Pay | Paysafecard | Neteller | Google Pay | Prepaid Cards | Revolut
By Features: Cash Out | £5 Minimum Deposit | Minimum Bet Sizing | Live Streaming | Betting Exchanges | Safest | Fast Withdrawal | Daily Free Games | New Betting Sites | Horse Betting Apps | Football Betting Apps | Virtual Sports Betting Sites
By Events: Politics | WWE | NRL Grand Final | MLB World Series | Euro 2024
By Esports: CS:GO | Dota 2 | League of Legends | PUBG | Valorant | FIFA | CS:GO Betting Sites with Paypal
FAQ
It is not really possible to say who is the best because everyone looks for and values different things, and there is not one bookmaker who is best at everything. One may be best for odds, one may be best for a range of markets, one may have the best Free bets, another the best live streaming, another the best In play betting interface, and the list goes on and on. We have listed which we think are among the best, and the reasons why, in the article above.
The short answer is yes, sports betting online in the UK s perfectly legal. There are the caveats that you must be 18+ years old, be using your own money, not betting on an event you are competing in (or have an interest in), and the bookmaker is licenced by the UK Gambling Commission.
In the UK you must be 18 years old to legally place a bet on a sporting event.
This question is a little bit like how long is a piece of string, because there is no one answer, it will vary from person to person and from betting site to betting site. Bookmakers do try their best to make signing up as quick and easy as possible though, so on average it should take you a little less than five minutes.
Well it depends on what definition of “biggest” we are using. There are many ways you can argue something is the biggest, it could be who has the most staff, the highest turnover, the largest market value, the largest number of shops, or who operates in the most countries. For most of these metrics the largest bookmaker in the UK is the Entain Group, which includes the brands Ladbrokes and Coral.
To say which is “best” does come down to personal preference and what is best for one person will not necessarily be the best thing for the next person. We have looked at some of the betting apps we consider to be contenders for the title of the best betting app in this article, so you can read what we think in more detail there.
As a rule we would have to say yes, because in order to operate they must have a licence from the UK Gambling Commission and that gives them a fair amount of legitimacy. However, just by having a licence does not mean you know how to price up events and run a profitable bookmaker, and it is just a fact that newer sites are much more likely to cease trading than older ones. If they cease trading whilst you have a balance in your account or outstanding bets then you are very likely to lose that money.
At the time of writing virtually all betting sites give you a Free bet of one kind or another, either in the form of a Welcome bonus or as an existing user offer. For a guide to the current offers you can visit our UK bookmakers bonus page HERE
Yes they can ban you if you breach their terms and conditions but this is very rare. What is more likely to happen if they do not want you as a customer is to limit your max bet stake to pennies, which means although you can still bet there, it is fairly meaningless to win or lose, so not worth your time.
No you can not, this was banned in early 2020 in an effort to reduce the amount of problem gambling. Not only can you not deposit with a credit card directly you also can not use any other source of funds (such as an E-wallet) if they have ever been funded by a credit card.