Best Betting Sites UK - Top Sports Bookmakers 2023

• e-mail

If you’re looking for the best betting sites, all fully licensed and regulated, look no further. Here, Acroud bring you all of the top tried and tested bookies that we have commercial deals with so you can enjoy the ultimate sports betting experience.

Down below, we have in-depth reviews of the top-rated online betting platforms accessible across the United Kingdom and also a list of the best new betting sites.

Top Rated Sports Betting Sites 2023

1. William Hill - Best Sports Betting Site
2. BetUK - Best Sports betting Odds
3. Betfred - Best for User Experience
4. BetVictor - Best Mobile App
5. 888Sport - Best Markets Coverage
6. Ladbrokes - Best Bonuses
7. Coral - Best by Popularity
8. LiveScore - Best Live Streaming
9. VirginBet - Best Live Betting
10. BoyleSports - Best New Betting Site

18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission

A Closer Look at Our Top Rates Bookies

Let’s take a closer look at why these bookmakers have made it onto our list of the best betting sites and how they stand out against the competition.

1. William Hill - Best Sports Betting Site

Expert Ranking: 4.9/5

William Hill, established in 1934, is considered a legendary presence in the sports betting landscape. With nearly a hundred years of experience, it has earned its reputation as a trusted and innovative bookmaker, offering a wide-ranging sportsbook and a host of different betting options.

William Hill's selection of sports and markets is a testament to its commitment to catering to the preferences of all types of punters. From football, basketball, and tennis to horse racing, golf - and even esports, their comprehensive coverage means that there’s something for every sports enthusiast. For instance, their football markets span from popular Premier League matches to less famous international leagues and world tournaments, providing various options.

As for betting odds, when it comes to mainstream sports, generosity is to be commended - and is another reason it’s on our list. When reviewing the site, we found the bookmaker consistently offers competitive odds so that you can take advantage of even bigger wins.

William Hill is the home of promotions - as they make the whole William Hill experience even better. Their "Acca Freedom" promotion offers a refund if one leg of an accumulator bet loses, providing a safety net for players venturing into multiple selections - and that’s just one of many offers.

William Hill's enduring legacy and continuous innovation set it apart from its competition. Their blend of history, betting offerings, favourable odds and super generous promotions make them much better than many other sports betting sites. William Hill is a premium choice if you’re after a reputable, diverse and rewarding platform to place your bets.

Pros:

• Lots of bonuses
• Generous Acca rewards
• Offers live streaming

Cons:

• A busy website

2. BetUK - Best Sports Betting Odds

Expert Rating: 4.8/5

BetUK is a highly regarded online bookmaker, catering for fans of both sports betting and casino. With its origins deeply rooted in the UK market, the platform offers many of the most popular UK sports.

When entering the sportsbook section, you’ll find a wide selection of sports and events - from football and basketball to tennis, horse racing and even the more niche sports; the platform's inclusiveness is one of its best features. Offering odds that more than hold their own in the competitive landscape, especially when it comes to football betting, BetUK offers a varied and generous betting experience across the board. If you’re looking for even bigger thrills, in-play betting means you can place bets when the events are in progress, taking your experience to the next level.

Bored of sports? Then the casino arena awaits, showcasing a rich assortment of slots, table games, and live casino selections. Featuring titles from acclaimed providers, you can enjoy games such as Rainbow Riches, Starburst and Rainbow Jackpots - and many more.

The platform partners with some of the top providers, giving you unrivalled access to the best slots within the industry.

However, BetUK's true beauty lies in its incredible promotions and bonuses for new and existing patrons. From enticing welcome offers to free bets and reload bonuses, many rewards are there to improve your experience.

Ultimately, BetUK combines sportsbook and casino - and throws in the promise of generous free bets and promotions, along with competitive odds, into a secure and entertaining platform.

Pros:

• Strong promotions page
• Competitive odds for football betting
• Offers a top-tier casino experience

Cons:

• The selection of sports and markets may not be as extensive as larger betting platforms.

3. Betfred - Best for User Experience

Expert Rating: 4.8/5

Betfred, founded in 1967 by Fred Done, boasts a legendary history in the sports betting arena. It has risen to become a cornerstone of the UK betting scene, famed for its solid sportsbook and diverse range of betting options.

Diving into the selection of sports and markets, Betfred offers an impressive array that caters to all tastes. They cover both mainstream and niche interests, from football and horse racing to tennis, rugby, darts, and snooker. You can enjoy extensive coverage of leagues and global events, ensuring an exciting and varied betting experience. Lover of the beautiful game? Then you can explore markets ranging from Premier League fixtures to more international tournaments.

Then we have to touch upon Betfred's generosity in odds. Their commitment to providing competitive odds means you enjoy the potential for better returns - setting them apart from the competition.

Are you looking for value for money? Then you’ll be pleased to know that promotions play a big role at Betfred. Regular offers for new and existing customers can make your betting journey even more rewarding. For instance, their "Double Delight & Hat-trick Heaven" promotion rewards you with double or triple winnings on first goalscorer bets if your chosen player scores multiple times in a match.

What distinguishes Betfred is its all-around package. The site's perfect blend of history, a vast selection of sports and markets, generous odds, and myriad promotions combine to create an unrivalled betting experience. This sets Betfred ahead of other sports betting sites, making it our number-one choice for anyone looking for a reliable and rewarding platform.

Pros:

• Wide choice of sports
• An excellent reputation
• Lots of promotions

Cons:

• Could have more payment methods

4. BetVictor - Best Mobile App

Expert Ranking: 4.7/5

BetVictor holds a significant history in the sports betting industry, having been founded by William Chandler in 1946. A widely-recognised brand throughout the UK, BetVictor is one of the standout choices for any prospective sports bettor.

BetVictor boasts exceptional coverage of not just sports but also esports, along with an impressive in-play betting offering - and has garnered commendable ratings for its customer service, of which we were more than impressed.

If you are after a diverse range of sports betting and casino games, then BetVictor could be exactly what you are looking for. They offer a variety of markets across numerous sports with some seriously impressive odds. Moreover, we were pleased to see that the website and app boast a clear and user-friendly layout - so you can easily beat anytime and anywhere.

The combination of experience, remarkable sports and esports coverage, a strong in-play betting selection and highly rated customer service mean that BetVictor more than deserves a spot on our list of the very best sites.

Pros:

• Excellent esports coverage
• Great choice of horse racing betting options
• Plenty of live-betting options

Cons:

• Cashouts could be quicker

5. 888Sport - Best Markets Coverage

Expert Ranking: 4.7/5

888Sport comes from the well-respected 888 brand, which offers online betting services across multiple sectors, including casino and poker. Boasting a loyal customer base across all three verticals, 888 has excelled in all three departments.

Specifically reviewing their sports betting options, it is clear that 888Sport has an in-depth sportsbook that goes the extra mile to offer users an immersive betting experience. The site design makes it easy for users to navigate their way around.

The coverage of sports is extremely impressive, ensuring there are markets available for both the most popular and most obscure sports in the world. From football to surfing, boxing to badminton, if there is competition involved, you can be sure that 888Sport will be covering it.

We particularly noticed that horse racing fans are catered for at 888Sport, making it a prime destination for racing punters. There are a wide range of horse racing promotions on offer at 888Sport, including best odds guaranteed and extra places on selected races. This makes 888Sport one of the best horse racing betting sites in the UK.

Pros:

• Plenty of horse racing promotions
• Strong selection of sports
• Good industry reputation

Cons:

• Site looks slightly dated

6. Ladbrokes - Best Bonuses

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

A brand that plenty of UK sports betting fans will recognise, Ladbrokes has been in operation since 1886. Coming with more than a century of experience behind them, it is no surprise that experience and expertise has led to an online platform that caters well to the needs of sports bettors.

With a rich history, Ladbrokes offers a wide array of sports markets - with more than 30 on its list - from the most popular to the most niche. As well as live betting, there is an excellent live streaming service, so you can watch your bets play out in real time. Ladbrokes' reputation, diverse sports coverage and excellent promotions make it a great choice for anyone looking for the complete package.

Ladbrokes is renowned for being one of the most generous and rewarding bookmakers around when it comes to promotions. Existing customers regularly have the opportunity to enter competitions and promos — many of which are free-to-play. These are regularly updated and provide value for players once they have played through the initial welcome bonus. Doing this ensures players are more likely to stay somewhere they are valued for their custom.

Mobile bettors can enjoy the benefits from the Ladbrokes app too, which is one of the strongest on the market. The Ladbrokes app is free to download and provides the optimum mobile betting experience to users that wish to have the freedom to play on-the-go at the tap of a screen.

Pros:

• Superb mobile app
• More than a century of experience
• Trusted brand

Cons:

• Some markets have better odds elsewhere

7. Coral - Best By Popularity

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

Coral Sportsbook, a stalwart in the betting industry, offers an all-encompassing platform for all types of sports betting fans. With decades of experience, you will find an extensive range of sports markets - covering practically everything. From football and horse racing to tennis and beyond, there's something for everyone - pre-match and in-play. You can even watch your bets play out using their live streaming service. We also found them to have competitive odds - making your overall betting experience even more profitable… and this all comes on one very user-friendly and easy-to-navigate site.

Its perfectly designed platform reflects Coral's history as a trusted and established brand. They are fully dedicated to their customers - evident through their array of promotions and bonuses, catering to new and existing users. You can also take advantage of their well-designed dedicated mobile app, meaning you can enjoy practically all of their features anytime you want, anywhere you are.

Ultimately, Coral's long-standing reputation, impressive sports coverage and user-friendly design make it a solid and trustworthy choice for all bettors.

Pros:

• Excellent industry reputation
• Great selection of generous bonuses
• Easy to navigate on desktop and mobile

Cons:

• Sometimes few markets for smaller events

8. LiveScore Bet - Best Live Streaming

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

While not among the UK's most widely recognised online bookmakers, LiveScore Bet has been steadily building its reputation and is actively competing with industry giants, offering generous welcome bonuses and enticing existing customer offers to attract and retain players.

Once you claim the free bets welcome offer, look through the different reload bonuses… including a daily free game on its roulette. The bookie also provides the Best Odds Guaranteed on major horse races. Additionally, LiveScore Bet offers a £10 free acca when two £10+ accumulators are placed, alongside the Squads promotion that rewards free bets based on real-life player scoring.

The platform offers a diverse range of betting markets - and you can take advantage of comprehensive markets for all major events - encompassing everything from match results to classic options like full-time results and both teams to score.

For in-play enthusiasts, LiveScore Bet stands out. The in-play section caters to many markets in football and other sports - including American sports and esports.

LiveScore Bet also boasts a variety of robust virtual markets - and one of the best virtual markets, "Rush Football," lets you cash out during matches, setting it well apart from its rivals.

Overall, we believe LiveScore Bet shows plenty of promise as a top bookmaker - ready to compete at the highest levels. Its offerings closely mirror those of top operators, featuring one of the best virtual sports sections we’ve seen, along with a casino and comprehensive football and horse racing markets. While there are still some areas for improvement, its progress over the past year suggests it’s certainly going in the right direction.

Pros:

• Excellent in-play betting
• A diverse range of betting markets
• Good selection of virtual sports

Cons:

• Still young with some areas of development

9. Virgin Bet - Best Live Betting

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

Established in 2019, Virgin Bet is a well-established UKGC site that entices punters with its excellent selection of promotions, including weekly £10 ACCA bonuses and enticing horse-racing promotions. They also offer price boosts up to £20, catering to casino and sportsbook enthusiasts.

Virgin Bet's sportsbook offerings include a wide range of popular sports. Football, American football, Australian rules, baseball, basketball, rugby (both league and union), tennis, badminton, cricket, golf, boxing, greyhound and horse racing, GAA football and hurling, volleyball, table tennis, snooker, pool, motor racing, speedway, cycling, darts, ice hockey, futsal, handball, and MMA are all on the roster. There is also a dedicated section reserved for winter sports - and if you’re a virtual sports player, you can enjoy football, horse racing, and greyhounds whenever you like.

In terms of features, the platform's Bet Builder feature gives you a chance for an even better football betting experience, meaning you can bet on halftime, first-half or second-half results, both teams to score, total corners, goals (over, under, or exact) and specific occurrences like red cards or goal-post hits. We were also impressed that live streaming was available for all different sports, including football, tennis and more.

Unlike other sportsbooks, Virgin Bet seamlessly integrates live and pre-match betting - and, as such, pretty much all the same features apply to live coverage - so you can enjoy a similar experience no matter how you bet.

Ultimately, we were very impressed - Virgin Bet is a hugely versatile sportsbook perfect for UK punters. It strikes a perfect balance between accessibility for beginners with more than enough to keep advanced bettors happy - with a great dedicated app so you can enjoy it all the time, no matter where you are!

Pros:

• Offers live streaming
• Accessible for new players
• Great bet builder feature

Cons:

• Could have more promotions

10. BoyleSports - Best New Betting Site

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

Boylesports, a massive player in the betting industry, offers a comprehensive platform catering - perfect for sports bettors - and casino players alike. Dating back to 1982 in Ireland, the bookmaker boasts a rich history and experience in delivering the best betting services.

Boylesports' sportsbook covers a wide range of sports, from the more mainstream options like football, horse racing and tennis to those lesser-known sporting events. This diverse selection comes with some seriously competitive odds, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore the site and engage in great value bets.

The platform's in-play betting feature adds an extra layer of excitement, so you can place bets while the action unfolds. Moreover, Boylesports offers a live streaming service for various sporting events, meaning you can enjoy an even more immersive betting experience.

In addition to its superb sportsbook, Boylesports offers an impressive casino section featuring an array of slots, table games and even live dealer options from renowned providers. We were pleased to note that they catered to all different preferences, meaning entertainment for all.

We also noted that Boylesports places a lot of emphasis on customer satisfaction - offering a good selection of promotions, including free bets, price boosts, cashback deals and more. Moreover, the bookmaker's user-friendly interface, coupled with its mobile app, means convenient and easy access to a myriad of betting options for everyone.

With a history of reliability, an extensive sportsbook and a seriously great casino, Boylesports is a great…and versatile destination for bettors. As noted, BoyleSports is our pick as the top new betting site in the uK. You can learn more about the best new betting sites in the UK in this article at newsdirect.com.

Pros:

• Excellent industry reputation
• Top-end casino
• Great brand new live streaming

Cons:

• Lack of VIP Program

How We Choose The Top UK Betting Sites

Our review process is detailed and comprehensive, and we go through every single area of the site, from sign-up to cash out. As well as expert reviewers, we also check out the opinions of other sports bettors. Here's an outline of how we make our decisions and come up with our ratings.

A Comprehensive Review By an Industry Expert

One of our industry experts will devote a lot of time and energy to thoroughly reviewing a betting site. This entails placing different bets and exploring various sports, markets, and features. With over 10 years of online betting experience at various betting sites, you can fully trust that we know exactly what we are looking for.

Customer Support

Customer support is vital to any online betting site's overall quality. A quick, efficient, and helpful customer support team can greatly enhance a user's experience. We will always prioritise betting sites that offer excellent customer support services.

We look at the responsiveness and availability of customer support channels, including live chat, email, phone support and even social media contact. A betting site's ability to address queries, resolve issues and provide helpful responses will certainly contribute to its overall rating.

Additionally, we will consider how good the site's FAQ section is and any dedicated resources for helping players find answers to more common concerns. A strong emphasis on customer support means that a betting site truly cares about its players.

Banking & Payment Options

We also look for a range of secure and convenient banking and payment options. As such, we check the banking page for options, including credit and/or debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, prepaid cards and more. The more, the better.

We then consider other factors such as transaction processing times, fees (if any), and how the betting site handles security and data protection during financial transactions. We then look at the ease of depositing funds and withdrawing winnings - because bettors should be able to manage their accounts efficiently and easily.

Site User Experience

Site usability is a hugely important factor in your online betting experience. That’s why we assess the user-friendliness of the sites by evaluating their design, layout and overall functionality. We look for an intuitive interface that allows easy access to different sections, such as sports markets, in-play betting and account settings, to give you a great user experience.

As well as this, we consider factors such as page loading speed, clear navigation menus and responsive design - for both desktop and mobile. It should offer a well-organised site with easily accessible information for a smooth and seamless browsing experience. The most user-friendly sites will make it convenient for you to place bets, review odds, access support and more… ensuring a positive experience from start to finish.

Mobile Site & Mobile App Usability

In the mobile-first world we live in, a good mobile site and app are essential to offering the ultimate modern betting experience, catering to the increasing number of users who prefer to bet on the go. We carefully assess betting platforms' mobile compatibility and app functionality. We want our readers to enjoy a smooth and enjoyable betting experience for users accessing the platform from their smartphones or tablets.

Some of the main aspects we consider include the ease of navigation, the speed of loading pages and the overall intuitiveness of the user interface - so you can enjoy the same level of

convenience and functionality when playing on mobile as a desktop.

Coverage of Sports

When evaluating a betting site's sports coverage, we delve into the range and diversity of sports offered for betting. Recognise the importance of catering to a wide range of sports bettors, which is why we assess whether a site provides a comprehensive selection of sports such as football, basketball, tennis, horse racing - and more. Additionally, they should go above and beyond the mainstream to offer more niche sports to cater to varying interests.

Furthermore, we consider the depth of coverage within each sport, including the availability of different leagues, tournaments and events. A decent sports coverage means you will get plenty of betting options, and you’ll be able to explore different markets in whichever sports you prefer.

Variety of Markets and Bet Types

The variety of markets a betting site offers is another crucial aspect of our evaluation process. We assess the range of betting markets available within each sport to ensure that you always have plenty of options to choose from. A strong variety of markets means you can explore different ways to bet on your favourite sports.

We look for those that offer traditional markets like full-time results and over/under goals and more specialised markets such as first goal scorers, correct score predictions and even player-specific bets. Offering a wide selection of markets means trying different betting strategies and preferences - and you can find bets that align with your predictions.

Selection of Odds Offered

The selection of odds the site offers will help determine its competitiveness and value compared to other competitors. That’s why we thoroughly analyse the odds provided by each site across various sports and markets. We check whether the odds are competitive compared to other good bookmakers, ensuring you can get the best possible value for your bets.

We also look for a diverse range of odds, including favourable prices on underdogs and favourites, as this shows that the bookie is looking to provide fair and attractive options for everyone. As such, we consider the consistency and quality of odds across different events - looking for those sites that consistently offer attractive odds for all sorts of markets.

Welcome Bonus

A welcome bonus is a promotional offer from betting sites to attract new customers and reward them for signing up and making their first deposit. But they have to be good on every level. As such, we look through the different welcome bonuses different betting platforms offer.

As well as the size of the bonus, we evaluate the terms and conditions of these bonuses, including the minimum deposit required, the percentage of bonus funds offered and any wagering requirements that need to be met before you can withdraw your winnings.

Bonuses and Promotions for Existing Customers

After the welcome bonus, we thoroughly examine the variety and frequency of bonuses provided to existing customers. These can include free bets, cashback offers, enhanced odds, loyalty programs and more.

We want to point you in the direction of those betting platforms that continue to offer value beyond the initial sign-up bonus. The best sites are those that keep on rewarding players for their loyalty.

Registration Process

The registration process is crucial to your user experience with a betting site. As such, our experts carefully evaluate the ease and efficiency of the registration process for each and every site we review by doing it ourselves. We assess the clarity of instructions, the amount of required information and the overall user-friendliness of the registration forms.

We also consider the account verification process and the time it takes for you to get your account fully operational.

In-Play Betting & Live Streaming

In-Play betting and live streaming are offered by pretty much all modern sports betting experiences. We thoroughly assess the In-Play betting options and live-streaming features each betting site offers. Not only do we look at the variety of sports and markets available for In-Play betting, but we also look at the speed and functionality of the platform.

Additionally, we check whether live streaming is offered - and for which sports and events, so you can watch the action in real-time as you place your bets. Our top-rated sites will offer comprehensive In-Play betting and live streaming so that you get to enjoy the excitement of betting on the action as it plays out.

Maximum Payouts

This is particularly pertinent if you are a high roller looking for that big acca win. These limits determine the maximum amount you can win and withdraw from a single bet or combination of bets. Obviously, the higher, the better. We compare the maximum payout limits across different sports and markets to ensure you can win and withdraw big.

Regular Review Updates

Everything changes, and we live in a constantly changing world where services and technology improve daily.

That’s why we conduct monthly updates for each review to ensure they are always totally updated and accurate. Our team thoroughly examines every new review so that we can monitor any improvements or alterations on the platform.

Furthermore, we proactively communicate with operators to ask about any significant changes or enhancements - and promptly update our review accordingly. In cases where there are serious improvements made, such as a complete site overhaul or the introduction of a major sport or market, then we will update the entire review - and go right back to the initial assessment stage. So, you can rest assured that we are giving you the most up-to-date information possible.

A Detailed Comparison

We don’t just look at each betting site individually. We also conduct comprehensive comparisons that thoroughly analyse the leading bookmakers across various sports and bet types. This helps us to determine the top-performing operators and identify those that fall short of expectations.

This process takes a lot of time and effort from the very best experts - all completely dedicated to assisting you in discovering the best betting site for you.

Why Top Betting Sites Get The Best Rankings

We have carefully examined all the bookmakers thoroughly, and those that receive the highest rankings will excel in the following areas:

• Competitive odds
• User-friendly website/app/mobile site
• Attractive bonuses and offers
• Strong live-streaming options
• Extensive coverage of events and markets
• Outstanding customer service
• Abundant in-play markets and betting options
• Early pricing of markets
• Non-restriction of winning accounts

How to Choose the Best Bookmaker Site For You

We bring you some of the best betting sites, but which one you choose is very personal. When searching for a new online betting site, we advise considering the following aspects to make sure that it’s the right site for you:

• Trustworthiness
• Reliability
• Low risk
• Reputability
• Player-friendly terms and conditions
• Other desired features

Trust Matters

There are more than 80 online bookmakers authorised to operate in the UK. And we will only ever recommend UK-licensed bookmakers for UK players - and if you're in the UK, you should avoid going with unlicensed bookmakers.

If you live outside of the UK or are visiting countries with online gambling regulations, it's recommended to only bet with locally licensed operators where gambling is regulated. Unlicensed betting sites won’t be required to adhere to the stringent regulations set by the Gambling Commission, which could lead to serious issues.

We've highlighted the major licensed bookmakers on this page - and you can verify their gambling licence by looking at the UKGC page and checking it for yourself.

Not all licensed UK bookmakers are listed here - there are far too many to mention - and just because it’s licensed doesn’t mean it is excellent. Some are excluded due to a lack of trustworthiness and reliability. This could stem from issues like non-payment, alterations in terms and conditions or simply poor customer service records.

Ultimately, licensed or not, bookmakers that lack trustworthiness will be omitted from our list altogether.

Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks

Many new online bookmakers, including some smaller companies, are venturing into the UK market to grow their businesses. However, betting with smaller companies carries more potential risks - as cash flow issues may occur. That being said, if these companies are registered with the UK Gambling Commission, they must meet specific criteria to ensure they can payout their customers. Overall, though, established, larger companies generally pose lower risks.

While some bookmakers on this page might need more recognition in the UK, they could be well-established global enterprises. So just because it’s not as well known in the UK, it could have a wide global audience.

Although it's essential to acknowledge the risk, bookmakers folding without honouring their bets are exceptionally rare. Any recent closures will usually involve acquisitions by other bookmakers - with balances and bets usually being settled for customers.

Yet, there have been instances of cancellations for ante-post (long-term market) bets and stakes returned. This can negatively affect bettors who obtained great prices for far-off events. A bookie should never renege on a bet. As such, when placing ante post bets, choosing larger, more stable bookmakers is a good idea.

Maybe, rather than placing a £20 bet with one bookmaker, consider splitting it into four £5 bets with different bookies. This spreads the risk around a bit.

Pick a Reputable Site

The most effective perspective about a site is gained through user experience. That's why we don’t just get our experts to review sites; we also rely on real users' experiences. We would also advise you to do the same. Explore their firsthand encounters and their assessments of each bookmaker before determining whether to create a new account with that online bookie. Users frequently share insights into their interactions with customer service and the resolution of any problems they encounter. Use these to your advantage.

Player-Friendly Terms and Conditions

We've dedicated countless hours to meticulously reviewing terms and conditions, withdrawal policies, deposit terms and more for each of our recommended betting sites. Sometimes the small print can have a big impact. It's important to note that some bookmakers may impose charges for withdrawing money - or even for inactive accounts (beware, as certain conditions could completely deplete your funds if left unattended for a certain length of time). The good news is that most of the bookmakers we list adhere to fair terms and conditions within industry standards - although there may be a few exceptions to be cautious of.

As part of our process, we not only look for these issues ourselves, but we also assess other review platforms like Trustpilot to gauge customer satisfaction levels with bookmakers. This information alerts us to potential issues around the site and highlights those positive aspects that might make a bookie worth considering above the rest.

Before you take the step and open a new bookie account, check our bookmaker reviews to identify any specific terms and conditions, available payment methods, associated charges or any withdrawal policies you should be aware of. If you discover something we haven't covered, make sure you share your knowledge with us.

A Site That Offers What You Want

Consider your desired bookmaker features and read reviews from users who have found those features. Ask yourself: Why would I consistently open an account and bet with this bookmaker? That's the crucial question. This page and its comprehensive guides are rich with information to aid you in finding the perfect betting site for your preferences.

While opening multiple accounts and experimenting is an option, we understand that some individuals might prefer this approach to leverage welcome offers. Most betting sites offer a welcome bonus upon registration, often as a free bet or bonus funds.

When registering with an online bookmaker, understand their terms and conditions. Here are some questions to consider, especially when evaluating customer offers and scrutinising bookmaker terms:

• What is the minimum deposit requirement?
• Which deposit and withdrawal methods are accepted?
• What withdrawal options are available?
• Are there deposit fees?
• Are there withdrawal fees?
• What's the minimum bet amount?
• What are the maximum allowable winnings?
• What are the specific rules for individual bets, particularly those concerning voided bets?

How to Register With an Online Betting Site

If you have made your mind up about which betting site (or betting sites) you want to sign up with, then here’s how you can get your journey started:

1. Click on our link over to the betting site of your choice
2. Click on ‘Register’ and enter the details as requested
3. Verify your account as per instructions

Once this is done, it’s time to get betting on your favourite sports.

Making a Deposit

Generally, the minimum deposit hovers around £5, although certain bookmakers might set higher thresholds (usually no more than £10 or £20). It’s worth being aware that the minimum and maximum deposit could also differ based on the chosen deposit method.

You must also consider the minimum bet requirement to claim your welcome bonus.

Bookmakers generally pay their winnings back to the same card or payment method used for deposits unless given alternative instructions. Occasionally, you might be asked to go through money-laundering checks simply because you comply with licensing.

It's important to recognise that online bookmakers are simply adhering to legal standards rather than trying to make life difficult for you. This is much more likely to arise when you withdraw to a different payment method than the one you initially used for deposit.

Some of the most popular deposit methods we recommend include:

Visa Debit Card

A widely used method for depositing on online betting sites is through a debit card, which facilitates direct transfers from your UK bank account to your casino account. It’s worth noting that UK bookmakers or gambling companies no longer accept credit cards as a deposit option.

PayPal

Most UK bookmakers love PayPal deposits - as do punters. This is currently the favoured e-wallet among sports bettors. Some people like it because it keeps betting transactions discreet on your bank statements. Meanwhile, others simply like its speedy deposit and withdrawal process. However, bear in mind that using PayPal might exclude you from certain bookmakers' welcome offers.

Apple Pay

Lots of prominent online betting sites now accept Apple Pay - and this is a method that is becoming increasingly popular. Deposit and withdrawal durations using Apple Pay mirror those of bank cards.

Skrill

Skrill, formerly known as Moneybookers, is an excellent alternative to PayPal. This payment method has always been one of the most popular with online gamblers, and, as such, it is accepted by most betting sites.

PaySafeCard

Prepaid cards, known as PaySafeCard, are great for funding your online betting account. Deposits using these cards typically don't incur fees, making them a popular option for individuals who prefer to use something other than bank cards. They also help you to control how much you spend. Simply load your budget on your prepaid card, and don’t spend any more. They also let you bet without entering your financial details online.

Gambling Responsibly

Recently, bookmaker regulations have become stricter as the Gambling Commission strives to keep gamblers safe. This development positively advances the industry and online betting site users. However, it's essential to acknowledge that, because of this, you might encounter a few issues when attempting to register with a new online betting site or if you start making more substantial bets with a bookmaker. The process of ID verification is now rigorously enforced, and at times, you might be required to submit copies of documents for identity and address confirmation.

Moreover, when trying to place a large bet or deposit, online betting sites are obligated to ensure your financial capability - they need to ensure you aren’t putting yourself into debt. Affordability checks, such as sharing pay slips and requests for proof of funds, may well be put into place. You should never take these requests personally; licensed online bookmakers must adhere to these regulations to avoid significant penalties. They are simply trying to make sure you avoid any gambling-related harm.

Here are some commonly recommended tips for responsible gambling online.

Keep it Fun

“When the fun stops, stop”. This slogan has become increasingly common among online bookmakers in recent years. If you're not enjoying gambling, it's important to stop. Always evaluate why you are playing and whether you are still enjoying it will help you determine whether you have developed a gambling issue. Gamcare offers an excellent tool for this purpose.

If you suspect you have a problem, Begambleaware is a resource you can turn to. They provide valuable advice, including assistance with self-exclusion. Another service, Gamestop, permits you to self-exclude all participating betting companies for a duration of your choosing. All UK-licensed bookmakers featured on this site are part of the GamStop program. Due to this, among other reasons, it's advisable to avoid joining betting sites not affiliated with GamStop.

Set Limits and Use Responsible Gambling Tools

You should always record your gambling activities and establish limits for yourself. And you should only ever wager an amount you can comfortably afford to lose. Online betting sites have introduced several tools to aid in this process, including:

• Deposit Limits
• Session Limits
• Account History
• Time Outs

Another valuable feature is using playing time notifications to remind you of your gambling duration and when to stop.

What To Do If You Have a Gambling Problem

We understand that gambling can be fun, but it's important to gamble responsibly. If you are struggling with a gambling problem, please don't hesitate to ask for help. There are people who can help you get on the road to recovery.

Here are some resources that can help you:

• National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
• GamCare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/
• GambleAware: https://www.begambleaware.org/

Online Betting Sites Vs High Street Bookmakers

In recent years, the online betting industry has been experiencing rapid growth - and unfortunately, this has led to a decline in traditional high-street betting shops. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated this trend as betting shop closures became necessary. As sporting events gradually resumed, sports bettors were left with only one viable option for placing bets - online betting sites.

During this period, people who hadn’t previously opened online betting accounts were tempted to try it. They discovered the convenience of betting via mobile phones using websites or dedicated apps. Even after the reopening of betting shops, many who had already embraced online betting found the experience compelling enough to continue using digital platforms. Hopefully, there is enough space for them both, but online betting sites are the way forward.

Summary

We have put in time and effort to bring you the best sites, but choosing the right one has to be about you and what you want. When selecting the best betting site for your needs, consider factors like trustworthiness, reliability and reputation. Examine user reviews to find out about customer experiences. Look for user-friendly sites, diverse markets, competitive odds and attractive bonuses. Only play at licensed operators to ensure you spend your time and money at a trusted and reliable site. You should also assess the range of payment options, withdrawal policies, and customer support.

Remember, always stay safe, bet responsibly and when the fun stops, stop!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which are the Best Betting Sites UK?

The best betting sites in the UK include BetFred, William Hill, BetVictor, Virgin Bet, and Live Bet. These sites offer a range of markets, competitive odds, and user-friendly platforms. However, the best one depends on your personal preference.

What are the Biggest Betting Sites?

The largest betting sites in the UK include BetVictor, William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral, and BetFred. These sites are well-known for their extensive markets in the UK and worldwide.

What is a Free Bet?

A free bet is a promotional offer provided by betting sites. It allows you to place a bet without using your own money. If the bet wins, the winnings will be credited to your account, while if the bet loses, no actual money is lost from the bettor's balance.

How Long Does it Take to Open a New Online Betting Account?

Opening a betting site account typically takes just a few minutes. You must provide personal details, create login credentials and verify your identity. Some sites require additional verification, but the process is quick and straightforward.

What Payment Methods are Available at UK Betting Sites?

UK betting sites accept various payment methods, including debit cards, e-wallets such as PayPal and Skrill, bank transfers, PaySafeCard and others. However, availability may vary, so check the site to double-check.

Published in partnership with Acroud Media.

Originally published on dailymail.co.uk.