UK bettors are strongly advised to use only licensed betting sites, and the easiest way to ensure that is by checking if the site is approved by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The Commission regulates all gambling activities in the country, ensuring fairness, transparency, and player protection. Whether you’re betting on football, horse racing or casino games, this guide lists top licensed platforms and explains why it matters.
Why UKGC licensing matters
Sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission must follow strict rules related to responsible gambling, payment security, customer identity checks, and fair odds. Using an unlicensed operator can put your funds and data at risk, and you may have no legal protection if things go wrong.
Top UK Gambling Commission licensed betting sites in 2025
- Bet365 – One of the UK’s most trusted bookmakers, offering football, tennis, racing and more with in-play betting and strong customer support.
- William Hill – Established high-street name and online operator with decades of UKGC compliance.
- Paddy Power – Known for its football markets and promotions, fully licensed and regulated in the UK.
- Betfair – Licensed for both sportsbook and exchange betting, popular among experienced punters.
- Ladbrokes – Offers full coverage of UK sports with a licence issued by the UKGC under Entain plc.
- Coral – A long-standing operator in the UK market with regular betting offers and secure licensing.
- Sky Bet – Highly active in football betting, especially Premier League games, and licensed through Flutter UK & Ireland.
How to check if a site is UKGC-licensed
To verify if a site is licensed, scroll to the footer of any UK bookmaker’s website. You should see the UKGC logo and a licence number. You can also visit the UKGC public register at: https://register.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ and search the operator’s name to confirm its current licence status.
Also Read: What are the most popular horse racing bets in the UK?
Red flags: Signs a site may not be licensed
- Missing licence information in the website footer
- Slow or unresponsive customer service
- No tools for self-exclusion or deposit limits
- No age verification during sign-up
Always bet with licensed operators
Using betting sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission ensures you’re gambling safely and legally. The UKGC’s strict regulation means your rights are protected, and you’re less likely to fall victim to scams or unfair terms. Always check the licence before placing a bet.
Also Read: What is a Lucky 15, and how does it work?
FAQs about UK Gambling Commission licensed betting sites
What does a UKGC licence guarantee?
A licence means the site is legally approved to operate in the UK and must follow rules around fair play, player protection, and responsible gambling.
Where can I find the UKGC public register?
You can visit: https://register.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ and search for any licensed operator by name.
Is it illegal to use an unlicensed betting site?
Yes. Using an unlicensed site could lead to account closure, loss of funds, or legal trouble. It’s also unsafe, as these sites may not protect your data or provide fair odds.
Are offshore betting sites licensed by the UKGC?
No. Many offshore sites operate under other jurisdictions, but if they’re not listed on the UKGC register, they are not legal for UK users.
Do all big-name betting apps follow UKGC rules?
Yes, the top UK apps such as Bet365, Paddy Power, and William Hill are all fully licensed and regularly audited by the Commission.
