Why Use a UK VPN best? Using a UK VPN is a straightforward way to maintain online privacy while residing in or visiting the UK. The Investigatory Powers Act in the UK allows for some of the world’s most invasive government surveillance. Moreover, the UK is a founding member of the infamous Five Eyes Alliance.
However, using the best UK VPN isn’t just about privacy and security. A top-quality service allows you to stream content from abroad. If you’re a UK expat, you can watch BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
Finding the UK VPN that meets all your requirements can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve tested nearly all the valuable services on the market from our UK base to ensure we can recommend the best UK VPN available today.
The best UK VPNs prioritize security and privacy. Ensure that the service you choose can guarantee your online safety. We’ve conducted real-world testing and verified that all our recommendations here are reliable. Outstanding connection speeds are also a prerequisite for most users, and streaming performance is a bonus many appreciate.
Consider the devices on which you’ll use your UK VPN. We highly recommend NordVPN for its strong UK presence. You might recognize it from TV ads and sports sponsorships. It offers excellent encryption, Onion over VPN, streaming capabilities, location spoofing, torrent downloads, and the ability to keep you anonymous online.
However, what makes NordVPN truly great is that it bundles all these features into a straightforward, user-friendly package. It smoothly combines the application with perfect privacy credentials and streaming performance, providing the best all-round VPN for the UK. Importantly, you also have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you are happy, or you get a full refund.
If you’re looking to save money, we recommend Surfshark. for less than $2.50 per month, you’ll have unlimited data and simultaneous connections, rock-solid security, and in-depth features that free VPNs don’t have. Access is fast and all major streaming sites are unlocked. Surfshark is the best value for money.
How to get a free VPN for 30 days:
If you need a VPN for a short period of time while traveling abroad, get our top-ranked VPN for free. NordVPN offers a 30-day money back guarantee, which is real. You’ll need to pay upfront to use the subscription, but the subscription allows full access for 30 days. If you don’t like it you can cancel at any time and get a full refund, so you can try it with confidence.
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What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essentially an encrypted connection from your device to a network via the internet. Due to this encryption, your device’s IP address, the websites you visit, and your location become undetectable to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and anyone else on the same network, enhancing your privacy.
Why Do I Need a VPN?
For instance, VPNs can be used to protect your traffic when connecting to public networks, like those in TfL or your local Starbucks, to prevent hackers and eavesdroppers. However, these tools have various other uses. They can effectively unlock geo-restricted content on Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming services.
Furthermore, VPNs not only help reclaim your privacy from your ISP but also from the apps and services you use, even from the government.
Why Do I Need a UK IP Address?
Freedom House, an advocacy group, states that the internet environment in the UK is “free” and highlights it as a “crucial factor in determining societal and democratic participation.” Broadband internet access is considered a basic human right in the UK, supported by the commitment to access a free and unrestricted internet, free from content censorship and other oppressive practices.
However, downloading copyrighted materials in the country is considered illegal, and there have been instances of copyright trolls exploiting the law to obtain settlements, so it’s best to steer clear of infringing activities. Having a UK IP address can help you access a free and open internet, a feature often unavailable to citizens in countries like Iran, mainland China, Russia, and the UAE, where government-appointed engineers impose various blockades to restrict site access.
UK residents traveling abroad find having an IP address from home useful. This aids in accessing content like BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, UK Netflix, and ITV Hub. Other use cases for a UK IP address include accessing online banking services and watching the English Premier League.
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How to Obtain a UK IP Address from Anywhere: A Step-by-Step Guide
Obtaining a UK IP address is quite simple with a high-quality VPN that has servers in the UK. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Start by creating a VPN account:
Commonly Blocked Content Categories in the UK
By default, internet users in the UK are prohibited from accessing various types of websites because their internet connections are filtered by their ISPs. This has been the case since 2013. Content categories that are often heavily blocked by ISPs in the UK include:
While there’s only one solution to these restrictions, if you are interested in using WordPress, want to use torrents, or need to download files not accessible in the UK due to geo-restrictions, we recommend subscribing to a VPN service.
VPNs have proven to be useful in certain situations. They can bypass internet censorship while masking your IP address and location, making it appear as if you’re from another country. For example, if you want to access WordPress.com, you can connect through a US VPN server.
Top 3 UK VPN Best – 2023 Oct Recommended
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1. NordVPN – The most secure VPN available
For: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux | Simultaneous Connections: 6 | Streaming Sites: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu | Number of Servers: 5,600 | Server Locations: 60+ | >>Go to the NordVPN website.
NordVPN is a well-known service with a true zero-log policy, meaning it doesn’t keep logs of user sessions, bandwidth used, traffic, or timestamps, resulting in foreign agencies’ failed attempts to extract user data from its servers. NordVPN has received information requests in the past but simply shrugged them off, stating that they couldn’t comply.
In one instance, authorities seized servers but couldn’t collect any valuable information. NordVPN operates in more than 60 countries, with over 5,000 servers, including 400+ in the UK. Moreover, most of its servers are RAM-only, which adds an extra layer of protection. Specific servers support secure torrent downloads, providing unmatched download speeds.
NordVPN is an excellent choice for unlocking region-locked content, consistently handling video streaming. It can securely access services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, ITV Hub, and BBC iPlayer. Located in sunny Panama, NordVPN is outside the surveillance of Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes, laying a strong foundation for your privacy. Additionally, it comes with AES 256-bit encryption, two kill switches, and double VPN (multi-hop) options.
If you need extra privacy, it can route your connection through a second server. A single subscription grants access to six devices, but you can extend this number by configuring the VPN on a router. Applications are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, among others.
I’ve tested this to make sure you can indeed get your money back. Initially, the support team tried to extend my trial period, but when I told them I wasn’t interested in an extension, they promptly initiated the refund process. I got my money back within 4 business days. Make sure you buy NordVPN and get another 3 months free >>
How to use NordVPN VPN
To use NordVPN, perform the following simple steps:
- Go to the NordVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
- Download the NordVPN app for the device you want to use.
- Enter your login password in the app.
- Enable the Obfuscation Server by going to: Settings > Show Advanced Settings > Obfuscation Server (toggle it on).
- Now, connect to one of the obfuscation servers by clicking on the “Servers” tab, and then click to automatically connect to the fastest VPN server, or manually select the server location.
- Use NordVPN and unlock all online content.
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2. Surfshark – Recommend the cheapest VPN
For: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux | Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited | Streaming Sites: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu | Number of Servers: 1,700+ | Server Locations: 100+ | >>Go to the official Surfshark website.
Surfshark is a VPN that prioritizes security and privacy, headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, an area with no mandatory data retention laws. It uses 256-bit encryption, safeguards against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, and offers a kill switch to protect your traffic. Most importantly, Surfshark doesn’t log any identifiable information.
You can pay with one of three different cryptocurrencies for an additional layer of anonymity. They provide 24/7 support through live chat. Surfshark offers access to over 3,200 high-speed servers in more than 60 countries, with servers in London, Glasgow, and Manchester. These servers are RAM-only, meaning all data is wiped after a reboot.
Surfshark doesn’t limit the number of connections, and it offers unlimited bandwidth. The service is based in privacy-friendly Netherlands and has an independently audited no-logs policy. Surfshark is also one of the fastest VPNs on the market, excelling in geo-unblocking capabilities and able to unlock platforms like Netflix, Hulu + Live TV, BBC iPlayer, and All 4.
This service is great for anyone who wants to securely stream, torrent, or browse while traveling. Surfshark offers applications for MacOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux, but you’ll need to manually configure it with a wireless router.
For the best budget option, Surfshark unlocks a wide range of UK streaming platforms and allows you to protect all your devices simultaneously, making it a cost-effective choice at just $2.30 per month. In reality, this price can be even lower, and you can have an unlimited number of devices and share your account with friends. Most importantly, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
You can personally try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and its plans start as low as $2.30. Requesting a refund is easy using Surfshark’s live chat feature. While the support team asked me why I wanted to cancel initially, they promptly processed my request, and I had my money back in under 4 days! Make sure you buy Surfshark and get 3 months of service for free>>
How to Download and Install Surfshark
To use Surfshark VPN, perform the following simple steps:
- Go to the Surfshark website and sign up for a subscription.
- Download the Surfshark app for the device you want to use.
- Enter your login credentials in the VPN app.
- Enable the NoBorders feature by going to: Settings > Advanced > NoBorders (toggle on).
- After activating the NoBorders feature, you can use the VPN as normal.
- Enjoy using Surfshark VPN now.
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3. ExpressVPN – The fastest VPN in the world.
For: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux | Simultaneous Connections: 5 | Streaming Sites: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu | Number of Servers: 3,000+ | Server Locations: 160 | >>Go to the official ExpressVPN website.
With a customer-centric approach, lightning-fast connection speeds, minimal downtime, and a massive server network, ExpressVPN is currently one of the best VPN services available. With over 3,000 servers located in 94 countries, including five locations in the UK, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for travelers looking to access services like BT Sports, Amazon Prime, Sky Go, and All 4.
ExpressVPN doesn’t store any traffic logs but does extract minimal information, such as the date (not time) of connection, server location choice, and total bandwidth used. Importantly, it never records your personal IP address. The company is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside the jurisdiction of UK authorities.
ExpressVPN uses 256-bit AES-CBC as its encryption standard, along with HMAC authentication and Perfect Forward Secrecy. It includes an internet kill switch known as Network Lock, which temporarily halts all network traffic if your connection is unexpectedly disrupted. Applications are available for Android and iOS, as well as desktop clients for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
ExpressVPN is known for its high streaming speeds, leading privacy and security features, user-friendly applications for all platforms, and responsive 24/7 chat support. The only drawback is that it’s not the cheapest option, but it offers impressive security and privacy with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
When I personally tested ExpressVPN’s refund process, the support representative responded to my request in less than a minute via 24/7 live chat. I wasn’t even asked to reconsider or troubleshoot the issue. In fact, my request was processed immediately, and most importantly, I had my money back in less than 5 days! Make sure you get another 3 months free with your ExpressVPN purchase>>
How to set up ExpressVPN VPN
To use ExpressVPN, simply perform the following steps:
- Go to the ExpressVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
- Log in to your account and download the software for the device you want to use the VPN for.
- Open the ExpressVPN app and enter the activation code (from your account page).
- Now, connect to one of the nearest servers and use the internet normally.
- Instantly use ExpressVPN and unlock all your online content.
How We Choose the Best VPN for the UK
Finding a VPN that makes promises to the world is easy, but finding one that truly delivers on those promises is much more challenging. Additionally, most VPNs struggle to access popular foreign streaming services, so travelers have extra requirements. We use the following criteria to narrow down the list until only the best remain:
- Server Selection: Having a large number of server locations allows you to access a wider range of services. For example, using UK servers provides a UK IP address, enabling you to use UK streaming services while traveling.
- Streaming Capability: We test VPNs against services like BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, Sky Go, and Now TV to determine which VPNs are best at evading detection. Reliability is crucial, as this means fewer trial-and-error server selections.
- Performance: It’s important that your VPN is fast enough to accomplish the tasks you need. Comparitech regularly conducts speed tests on leading providers to identify the fastest and most reliable ones. However, your VPN speed is subject to the limitations of your base connection.
- Security Features: At a minimum, our top VPNs must use 256-bit encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy to ensure your security. However, we prefer services with more advanced tools, such as features that hide your real location, ad blockers, and split tunneling.
- User-Friendliness: We only recommend services that are welcoming to new users, meaning they must have applications for all major operating systems, thoughtful design, and real-time chat support.
Issues with Your UK VPN? How to Troubleshoot
If you’re facing problems with your UK VPN, don’t give up right away. Here are a few things you can try:
Can I Use a Free UK VPN?
If you’re looking for a quick fix, there’s always the option of free VPN services. However, free VPN services will not provide the same experience as paid services. They typically offer only a few servers to connect to, weak encryption, and cannot be relied upon for privacy and security. This is especially problematic if you’re traveling abroad and might use public Wi-Fi.
Furthermore, data limits are likely to apply, meaning your connection may terminate if you stream video for too long. Our advice is to avoid such providers. After all, there’s no such thing as a free lunch, and free VPNs profit by inserting tracking cookies, monitoring your browsing habits, and selling data to third-party advertisers. You also face the risk of malware infection, leading to data loss and the arduous process of recovering your device.
Summary
Given the UK’s lack of privacy emphasis, having a reliable VPN for the UK is a must. It falls under the umbrella of global surveillance alliances, requiring ISPs to collect your data. A VPN can encrypt your information, making your data unreadable to any third party.
Moreover, a VPN can be a handy tool for unlocking streaming services unavailable in the UK. It’s also useful for accessing geo-restricted content libraries, such as those on Netflix, Disney Plus, or other platforms. Our top recommendation for UK citizens or travelers is NordVPN.
NordVPN operates over 440 servers in the UK, offering complete privacy and advanced security features. With strong security features, fast speeds, a vast server network, and reliable customer support, NordVPN ensures privacy through a strict no-logs policy. You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.
If you’re looking to save money, we recommend Surfshark. for less than $2.50 per month, you’ll have unlimited data and simultaneous connections, rock-solid security, and in-depth features that free VPNs don’t have. Access is fast and all major streaming sites are unlocked. Surfshark is the best value for money.
You might also want a backup VPN. We suggest registering for more than one VPN service. If VPN usage is crucial to you, prepare for the worst and have a backup solution. Many people already have more than one VPN service in place for travel, just in case their primary VPN fails to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get a free US/UK VPN to unlock Spotify?
Free VPNs are a dime a dozen, but finding a fast and reliable service is more challenging. Typically, free VPNs have more users than paid services, which makes them significantly slower, making streaming very difficult. Instead of using a free VPN with security risks, why not take advantage of NordVPN‘s 30-day money-back guarantee? You’ll need to make an upfront payment, but you can try the service risk-free, and if it doesn’t meet your expectations, request a full refund.
How can I stream Top Gear from outside the UK?
Top Gear is actually available in many countries/regions, although not all places will have the latest episodes. Check the following networks to see which ones are showing Top Gear in your location:
How much does a UK VPN cost?
The cost of a UK VPN largely depends on the VPN service. The average monthly subscription price is about £9 per month, but many providers offer substantial discounts for long-term plans. For instance, with a biennial (two-year) option, you can get NordVPN for just £2.71 per month. This allows you to save 66%, one of the biggest discounts in the VPN industry. The best approach is to try any of our top 3 UK VPNs risk-free to see if it meets all your requirements.
Can I connect to a UK-specific server with a UK node VPN?
Yes, the top VPNs for the UK allow you to connect to UK-specific servers. These services, such as NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, provide hundreds of UK servers. You can choose a specific location, rather than automatically connecting to the best (or fastest) available server. For example, it might be in cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Glasgow, and you’ll be assigned an IP address that reflects that location.
Why can’t I use My5 outside the UK?
My5 is a free online video service offered by Channel 5, but due to licensing agreements, it can only be used in the UK. If you try to access My5 from outside the UK, you’ll receive a message stating that the content is not available in your region. However, the best way to watch My5 from abroad is by using a VPN.
How can I get a UK VPN on my mobile (Android and iPhone)?
Getting a UK VPN for your smartphone, whether it’s an iPhone or an Android device, is easy. All the top services listed above have dedicated applications for mobile devices. While some may have fewer features than the PC versions, they can still protect you and your online data. To get a UK VPN for iPhone or Android:
How can I select an IP address from London via VPN?
Some VPN providers actually allow you to choose the city where your server is located, for example, letting you choose between servers in London, Manchester, or Glasgow. However, in most cases, even if you don’t have the option to select a specific city, servers usually reside in or near the capital city. This means that a server simply labeled as “UK” is likely located in London, and it will provide you with an IP address from London.
