Best UK VPN in 2025: 5 Tested Free & Paid Services
This guide covers the best U.K. VPNs, designed to keep your online activity and personal data secure -- especially with the U.K.’s new online safety regulations. Read on to discover four premium options and one free service, all with U.K. servers.
Written by Kate Hawkins (Editor, Writer)
Reviewed by Valentina Bravo (Managing Editor)
Facts checked by Simona Ivanovski (Fact-Checker, Formatter)
Last Updated:
All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.
Key Takeaways: These Are the Best VPNs for the United Kingdom
- NordVPN — Best all-around U.K. VPN, with great speeds, strong security and access to U.K. streaming services. Longer-term plans come with a 76% discount.
- Surfshark — Cheap U.K. VPN with unlimited device connections. Plans start from $2.69 per month with a 87% discount.
- ExpressVPN — Easy-to-use VPN with fast connection speeds. All subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee and the longest plan has a 61% discount.
- Proton VPN — Solid performance and transparent security and privacy practices. Subscribe from $4.49 per month.
- PrivadoVPN — Best free U.K. VPN, with a U.K. server, unlimited monthly data and good speeds. Premium plans start at $1.11 per month.
Facts & Expert Analysis: Using a U.K. VPN:
- The Online Safety Act could undermine encryption: Recent updates to the act empower Ofcom to compel platforms to scan private messages for harmful content, threatening end-to-end encryption and user anonymity. A VPN helps counterbalance this by masking your online activity.
- Streaming services are geo-restricted: U.K.-based platforms like BBC iPlayer and ITVX block access to viewers outside the U.K., while international platforms host different content depending on location. A VPN lets you access global content no matter where you are.
- U.K. ISPs log user data: Under the Investigatory Powers Act, U.K. internet providers must retain logs of user browsing data for up to 12 months. A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a private tunnel, preventing monitoring and storage of your online activity.
A U.K. VPN (virtual private network) gives you a U.K. IP address, protects your privacy and helps you access geo-restricted sites. Connecting to a specific server in the United Kingdom lets you stream local content and keep your data safe. In this guide, we review the best VPNs — including a 100% free service — with secure servers and U.K. server locations.
Our top choices combine security, fast speeds and ease of use so you can stream, work and browse without issue. Although we like NordVPN best, we’ve got four alternatives worth taking a look at in case NordVPN isn’t right for you.
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05/17/2023 Facts checked
We updated the article to reflect the changes in VPN services.
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10/24/2023 Facts checked
Updated the article to reflect ExpressVPN’s expansion of server presence from 94 to 105 countries.
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07/15/2024 Facts checked
Updated the article, replacing Proton VPN with PrivadoVPN as the best free pick.
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10/01/2024 Facts checked
We updated the VPN list to incorporate the latest user feedback and expert evaluations.
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08/24/2025 Facts checked
We’ve rewritten our article, including up-to-date tests and the latest updates regarding U.K. privacy laws.
Cloudwards’ Choice: NordVPN
How to Choose the Best UK VPN
NordVPN has been my top-choice VPN for years, striking the best balance between speed, security and performance. It unblocks all major U.K. platforms, including BBC iPlayer and ITVX, and includes strong privacy features like an audited zero-logs policy and threat protection, which are even more vital for me in light of the U.K.’s new online privacy laws.
I find NordVPN easy to use across devices, including my Fire TV Stick, and I like that you can try it risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to Choose the Best UK VPN
Not all VPNs are designed with U.K. users in mind, so it’s important to prioritize the features that’ll help you achieve your goals. The best VPNs combine privacy, reliable speeds and ease of use. Here’s what to look for:
- U.K. servers: The more U.K. servers your VPN has, the better your chances are of getting a fast, stable connection for local content or services.
- Streaming access: Check that the VPN works consistently with U.K. platforms like BBC iPlayer and NOW, as well as with global options like Netflix.
- Strict no-logs policy: In a country with mandatory data retention laws, a VPN that doesn’t keep logs is essential for protecting your browsing history.
- Strong security tools: Look for VPNs with protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN, plus AES-256 encryption, a kill switch and data leak protection.
- Device compatibility: The best VPNs have easy-to-use apps on multiple platforms, including Fire TV Stick, so you can stay secure and connected on all of your devices.
The 5 Best VPN Services for the United Kingdom
Here’s a quick overview of the best VPNs for the U.K., including their unblocking ability, speed, security and server coverage.
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| VPN: | Price | Unblocks iPlayer | Unblocks ITVX | Unblocks Netflix | U.K. Servers | U.K. Speed | No-Logs Policy | Security |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $3.01/month | London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester | Fastest | Yes (audited) | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |||
 | $2.19/month | London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester | Fast | Yes (audited) | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |||
 | $3.49/month | London, Midlands, Wembley, Docklands, Tottenham, East London | Very fast | Yes (audited) | AES-256, ChaCha20, Camellia | |||
 | $4.49/month | Belfast, Cardiff, London, Edinburgh, Manchester | Fast | Yes (audited) | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |||
 | $1.11/month | London, Manchester | Fast | Yes (not audited) | AES-256, ChaCha20 |
1. NordVPN — Best Overall UK VPN
Very Fast
Very Fast
Very Fast
NordVPN delivers an impressive combination of speed, privacy and streaming capability for users in the U.K. Its local servers are fast and reliable for connecting to U.K. services like banks or streaming platforms. Plus, its audited zero-logs policy ensures NordVPN connections keep your online activity private and secure.
NordVPN also offers advanced tools like Threat Protection, which blocks trackers and malware. In addition, you’ll find specialty servers for P2P file sharing, obfuscation and using the Tor network.
NordVPN Hands-On Testing
Using NordVPN is straightforward, with apps that work consistently well across devices. Connecting to U.K. and international servers is quick — we found it usually takes just a couple of seconds. Features like the built-in tracker and ad blocker run quietly in the background and don’t impact app or device performance.
The desktop app can feel a little cluttered at first, especially with the map-based interface and the many configurable settings. However, it’s easy to navigate once you get used to the layout, and the apps are responsive and reliable.
Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Speed Test Results
NordVPN’s U.K. servers deliver consistently fast speeds and easily handle streaming, gaming and video calls without buffering. International connections are also fast, with only a slight dip when using long-distance servers.
Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Security Analysis
| Protocol: | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| NordLynx* | ChaCha20 | |
| NordWhisper | AES-256 | TV |
| OpenVPN* | AES-256 | |
NordVPN passed all of our DNS and IP leak tests without issue. It includes proprietary protocols NordLynx and NordWhisper, as well as the tried-and-trusted OpenVPN protocol.
NordVPN Pricing & Value
NordVPN’s best value plan is its two-year Plus subscription, which costs $3.90 per month at a 76% discount and comes with three months free. This includes the VPN, ad and tracker blocking, anti-malware and a password manager. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test NordVPN risk-free. Read more about pricing and features in our NordVPN review.
- **VAT may apply
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
- *The prices are charged in the first billing cycle only. Renewal prices vary.
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
- *The prices are shown only apply for the first 12 months.
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
- **The prices are applicable only for the first 24 months. Secure, high-speed VPN Threat Protection Pro™: Anti-malware and advanced browsing protection Threat Protection Pro™: Ad and tracker blocker Password manager with Data Breach Scanner 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage Identity and SSN monitoring and alerts Credit monitoring services Up to $1M in identity theft insurance Up to $100K in cyber extortion insurance
- 10
2. Surfshark — Best Cheap UK VPN
Very Fast
Very Fast
Very Fast
Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPNs with premium features — its two-year plans start at just $2.19 per month. Despite the low cost, you get access to reliable U.K. servers, fast speeds and an impressive number of advanced features. These include CleanWeb ad and tracker blocking, IP rotation and a customizable kill switch.
You’ll find Surfshark easy to use across devices, and it’s a solid choice for households due to its support for unlimited device connections.
Surfshark Hands-On Testing
Using Surfshark is easy, with clean, well-organized apps that make it simple to find and connect to U.K. servers. The built-in speed test is a useful way to check server latencies before you connect, so you can pick the fastest option for your connection.
However, we occasionally experienced slower connection times during testing. Some servers took multiple attempts and more than 30 seconds to establish a connection. However, once we were connected, performance was smooth and reliable.
Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Speed Test Results
Surfshark’s U.K. server delivered fast download speeds for browsing and streaming. However, latency was sometimes higher than expected, even on local connections. This could lead to lag and interruptions during activities like online gaming.
Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Security Analysis
| Protocol: | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| WireGuard* | ChaCha20 | |
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
Surfshark didn’t leak any DNS or IP data during our tests. It offers strong security with the WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols.
Surfshark Pricing & Value
Surfshark’s lowest price comes in the form of its Starter plan, which is fine if you just want the VPN and basic features. The Surfshark One plan is a better value overall, adding antivirus protection, real-time data breach alerts and a private search tool for $2.69 per month. Check out our Surfshark review for more information.
- Unlimited GB bandwidth, Unlimited devices, Secure VPN, Ad blocker, Cookie pop-up blocker. Pricing for the annual and biennial plans only apply for the first payment. Renewal fees vary.
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
- Yes
- Everything in Starter, plus Antivirus protection, Identity protection, Email Breach and Credit Card Alerts, Online Alias Pricing for the annual and biennial plans only apply for the first payment. Renewal fees vary.
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
- Everything in One, plus Data removal Pricing for the annual and biennial plans only apply for the first payment. Renewal fees vary.
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
3. ExpressVPN— Best UK VPN for Beginners
Very Fast
Very Fast
Very Fast
ExpressVPN’s intuitive interface and simple setup make it a great choice for beginner VPN users. No matter which device you’re using, the apps are designed to connect you quickly and easily. Plus, ExpressVPN is adept at unblocking U.K. streaming platforms and can access BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Amazon Prime Video U.K., all while maintaining fast speeds.
ExpressVPN is not the cheapest option, but it’s easy to use, reliable and includes premium privacy and security features, so it’s worth the extra cost.
ExpressVPN Hands-On Testing
ExpressVPN is one of the easiest VPNs to use, with apps that look and function almost identically across devices. Most configurable settings are simple tick boxes you can switch on or off, so getting set up or changing your settings takes just a few seconds.
However, we found that this simplicity comes at the cost of customization — ExpressVPN doesn’t offer the same depth of control as other top VPNs. It’s clearly built with ease of use as a priority, so it might be less suitable for power users who want more control over settings.
Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Speed Test Results
ExpressVPN’s U.K. servers delivered speeds that were consistent and fast enough for streaming, browsing and video calls. Latency was also low enough for lag-free online gaming.
Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Security Analysis
| Protocol: | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Lightway* | ChaCha20, AES-256 | |
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | |
| IKEv2** | AES-256, Camellia | |
| Post-quantum WireGuard | ChaCha20 | |
**Also supports routers
During testing, ExpressVPN kept all data secure within its encrypted tunnels, with zero leaks detected. It offers a strong set of protocols, including its own Lightway protocol and a new post-quantum WireGuard option.
ExpressVPN Pricing & Value
ExpressVPN’s best deal is its two-year plan, with a monthly cost of $3.49. This includes the VPN, plus extras like an ad and tracker blocker, a password manager, a 5GB eSIM and, for U.S. residents, ID alerts and theft insurance. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Read our full ExpressVPN review for more details.
- Pricing for the annual and biennial plans applies only on the first year.
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
1-year plan + 3 months, 2-year plan + 4 months
- Advanced Protection, ExpressVPN Keys, 3 days unlimited eSIM data, Identity Monitoring, IDP Insurance, Credit Monitoring, 25-50% off on Aircove Router Pricing for the annual and biennial plans applies only on the first year.
- Unlimited GB
- 12
- Everything on the Advanced Plan, Credit Monthly Report, Data Removal, 50-75% off on Aircove Router Pricing for the annual and biennial plans applies only on the first year.
- Unlimited GB
- 14
4. Proton VPN — Secure VPN for a UK IP Address
Proton VPN has a strong privacy framework and advanced security tools. It’s based in Switzerland, which has strict privacy laws, and it has an audited zero-logs policy. Features like Secure Core servers route traffic through privacy-friendly countries, making it difficult to trace your activity.
For U.K. users, this VPN offers dependable U.K. IP addresses that work well with local services and keep your data secure. It’s not the fastest VPN we’ve tested, but it’s fast enough for browsing and streaming. Proton VPN’s free version is also good and has a U.K. server, but you can’t manually select the U.K. server on the free plan.
Proton VPN Hands-On Testing
Proton VPN’s apps offer a lot of flexibility, which can make them feel complex for first-time users. We discovered a wide range of configurable settings, from protocol choice to split tunneling, but it takes some time to figure out where everything is.
One standout feature is the ability to create profiles for specific activities, like streaming on U.K. sites. You can even set certain websites to automatically launch when you connect to a profile, saving time if you regularly stream on certain platforms. It’s a good option if you like to fine-tune your VPN connections.
Notes From the Lab: Proton VPN Security Analysis
| Protocol: | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | |
| WireGuard | ChaCha20 | |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| Stealth | AES-256 | |
**Also supports routers
Proton VPN passed our IP and DNS leak tests, keeping our data fully hidden. It supports strong protocols, including WireGuard and its Stealth obfuscation protocol.
Proton VPN Pricing & Value
Proton VPN’s best value comes with its VPN Plus plan, with a two-year plan costing $4.49 per month. It’s fully refundable for 30 days if you change your mind. There’s also a free VPN plan with a U.K. server. You can learn more about it in our Proton VPN review.
- Unlimited GB
- 1
- Yes
- 500 GB storage 1 user 15 extra email addresses for you Support for 3 custom email domains Unlimited folders and labels Unlimited hide-my-email aliases Dedicated customer support Ultra fast and private VPN Encrypted password manager Encrypted cloud storage for photos and documents Advanced account protection
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
- **Renewal prices differ for the 1-year and the 2-year plans. Price includes all premium Proton services (Proton Mail, Calendar, Drive, VPN, Pass, & Wallet)
- Unlimited GB
- 10
5. PrivadoVPN — Best Free VPN for the UK
PrivadoVPN is the best free VPN for the U.K., with a free U.K. server, solid privacy tools and a high-speed data allowance. You can access local websites and get 10GB of high-speed data before switching to the unlimited Lite mode for lighter tasks. It also includes a strict no-logs policy and customizable security features.
PrivadoVPN Hands-On Testing
We were impressed by the level of customization PrivadoVPN offers. You can choose your preferred connection protocol, enable split tunneling and set the VPN to auto-connect. These features give you more control over your connection than most free VPNs offer.
All free servers — including the U.K. location — are conveniently at the top of the server menu, so you don’t have to go searching for them. The interface is easy to use, even with all the extra features, and is very similar across devices.
Notes From the Lab: PrivadoVPN Security Analysis
| Protocol: | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN* | AES-256 | |
| WireGuard** | ChaCha20 | |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
**Also supports Fire TV Stick
PrivadoVPN passed all of our leak tests without issue, and it supports strong protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard across its apps.
PrivadoVPN Pricing & Value
PrivadoVPN is the only free VPN plan we recommend for the U.K., with secure access to a U.K. server and high-speed data each month. If you want unlimited fast connections and access to more features, its premium plans start at $1.11 per month. You can find out more in our PrivadoVPN review.
- 10GB
- 1
- Unlimited GB
- 10
- Yes
Our Methodology: How We Tested the Best UK VPNs
When testing VPNs for the U.K., we focused on strong privacy protections, access to local and international content, reliable speeds and stable performance. We conducted hands-on testing with each VPN across different devices to ensure fair comparisons. Below are our top criteria:
- U.K. servers and global network: We looked at server networks to check for U.K. locations for better speeds and access to local content, and to check for a good global spread to connect to content around the world.
- Streaming access: We tested each VPN with major U.K. streaming services to see if they could access BBC iPlayer, ITVX and NOW, as well as international services like Netflix and Disney+.
- Security and privacy: We examined the encryption standards and protocols each VPN uses, and reviewed their zero-logs policies, DNS leak protection, kill switches and third-party audits.
- Speed and performance: We conducted local and international speed tests to measure download speeds, upload speeds and latency across servers.
- Usability: We downloaded and tested the VPNs on a variety of desktop and mobile devices, as well as with Fire TV Stick, to check for ease of use, reliability and available features.
VPNs We Don’t Recommend for the UK
Some VPNs fall short on privacy, security or performance — especially free services that appear trustworthy. Here are three we recommend avoiding if you need a U.K. VPN:
- Hola VPN: Hola routes traffic through a peer-to-peer network, so other users may be able to access your internet connection. This setup has led to past abuses, including bandwidth being sold without consent.
- SuperVPN: SuperVPN has been involved in major user data leaks and provides minimal information on how it handles personal information. It also has weak encryption, posing a serious privacy risk.
- Psiphon VPN: In our tests, Psiphon VPN failed to protect against DNS leaks, revealing our IP address. It also lacks a kill switch, making it unsuitable for anyone seeking real privacy.
Can You Use a Free VPN With UK Servers?
Some free VPNs offer U.K. servers, but most aren’t worth using due to serious limitations such as slow speeds and logging, a lack of essential privacy protections or the sale of your data. Free VPNs also struggle to unblock U.K. streaming services. PrivadoVPN is a rare exception, with a secure free plan, a U.K. server and unlimited data.
How to Get a UK IP Address With a VPN
Getting a U.K. IP address with a VPN is easy and takes only a few short steps. In this guide, we’ll use our top recommended service, NordVPN. The steps will be similar with most major VPNs, though.
- Sign Up for a VPN
Visit a VPN provider’s website and choose a plan. Complete the signup process and download the app to your device.
- Install and Open the VPN App
Install and launch the VPN on your device. You’ll need to log in using the account details you created during signup.
- Connect to a U.K. Server
Choose a U.K. server from the server list (or map interface, if there is one). The app will confirm once you’re connected.
- Verify Your IP Address
Run an IP test to check that your VPN is working properly and your true IP address is hidden.
Why You Need a VPN for the UK
Using a U.K. VPN is essential for maintaining online privacy, accessing blocked content and navigating government surveillance. Whether you’re a U.K. resident or traveling abroad, a VPN helps you stay secure and connected to the services you need.
Secure & Anonymous Surfing
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, hiding your IP address and online activity from third-party observers like your ISP, hackers or government agencies. This is especially important because U.K. data retention laws require ISPs to log your browsing history for up to a year. A zero-logs VPN avoids this, letting you browse anonymously.
Accessing Geoblocked Content
Streaming services like BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4 restrict content to U.K. viewers online. Outside the country, you’ll get annoying error messages and face content blocks — unless you’re using a VPN with U.K. servers. A VPN also lets U.K. residents explore content in other countries, like global Netflix libraries, U.S. Hulu and other region-locked platforms.
Bypassing Age Verification
The U.K. government is expanding age verification laws for accessing certain online content, including adult or sensitive material. These checks often require submitting photo ID, personal data or facial AI scans, raising serious privacy concerns. A VPN helps avoid these privacy risks by masking your location and stopping activity tracking.
Changes to the UK Online Safety Act Explained
In July 2025, the U.K. government announced changes to the Online Safety Act, placing a strong emphasis on protecting children from online harm. Under the new rules, platforms must place “highly effective” age-checking measures for adult content, like facial recognition or government ID checks. This move has raised concerns about data privacy and security.
These changes have renewed interest in VPNs, which can help avoid intrusive age verification laws and reduce your digital footprint. Although the government insists that the act targets platforms rather than individuals, digital rights groups warn that it sets a precedent for mass surveillance and undermines personal privacy.
Are VPNs Legal in the UK?
Yes, VPNs are fully legal in the U.K. Individuals and businesses are legally allowed to use them for privacy reasons, to stream content or to browse securely. However, like any tool, using a VPN for illegal activity (like cybercrime or copyright infringement) remains illegal. As long as it’s used legally, a VPN is a legitimate and safe way to protect your data and activity.
Is the UK Banning VPNs?
No, the U.K. is not banning VPNs. Although the Online Safety Act has introduced stricter rules around encryption and content moderation, there is no legislation preventing VPN use. However, privacy groups are concerned that future regulations could undermine VPNs.
That said, the Children’s Commissioner for England recently called on the government to introduce the age verification process to VPNs themselves, in an effort to curb VPN usage to get around the Online Safety Act. If this happens, it’s likely that many VPNs will opt to pull out of the U.K. rather than compromise their no-logs policies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right VPN for the U.K. comes down to finding the right mix of privacy, performance and streaming access — areas in which NordVPN stands out. It offers fast, secure servers in the U.K. and reliable unblocking for all major streaming platforms.
Have you tried any of these VPNs for U.K. streaming or privacy? Do you prefer a free VPN or a premium plan for your connections? Which features matter most to you — speed, security or extra tools like a VPN browser extension? Let us know in the comments and, as always, thank you for reading.
FAQ: VPNs for the UK
To watch U.K. TV, choose a VPN with reliable U.K. servers like NordVPN. Install the app, connect to a U.K. server and launch your preferred streaming service.
Yes, there are free U.K. VPNs. The best free U.K. VPN is PrivadoVPN. It’s a trustworthy free VPN that includes access to a U.K. server, making it a good option for browsing and streaming.
Many major VPNs have U.K. servers, including NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN and Proton VPN.nordvpn
NordVPN is the best VPN for Fire TV Stick in the U.K. It has a native Fire TV app and fast connection speeds, and it can unblock U.K. and international content.