The Best VPNs for the UK 2024

Best for Countless UK Servers

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On NordVPN's website

---

NordVPN

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

Learn More

View More

Best for Speed

4.6

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On ExpressVPN's website

---

ExpressVPN

• Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
• Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
• Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

Learn More

View More

Best for Streaming UK Content

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Surfshark's website

---

Surfshark

• All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
• Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
• One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
• Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance

Learn More

View More

With a virtual private network (VPN), you can shield your internet activities, access geo-restricted content from the U.K., and secure your device from hackers. We found NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark to be the best VPNs for the U.K. NordVPN stood out for its number of U.K. servers, ExpressVPN maintains fast internet connections, and Surfshark is best for streaming BBC iPlayer and Netflix U.K.

The best VPNs for the UK

People choose to connect to U.K. servers for various reasons. One motivation for using a VPN is to access geo-restricted content that is only available to viewers within the country. By connecting to a U.K. server, you can bypass these restrictions and enjoy your favorite British TV shows and movies.

In addition, U.K. servers can help maintain privacy online and provide security against hackers, internet service providers (ISPs), or other third parties by encrypting data and masking your real IP address. For those living in a country with strict internet censorship, a U.K. VPN server can bypass restrictions, granting free-flowing internet access from wherever you are.

We narrowed down the top three VPNs based on U.K. servers, streaming capabilities, and other features:  

• NordVPN: Best for countless U.K. servers
• ExpressVPN: Best for speed
• Surfshark: Best for streaming U.K. content

Top 3 VPN services for the UK compared

VPN	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Starting price	Starts at $3.99/mo	Starts at $12.95/mo	Starts at $2.29/mo
Free version
Number of UK servers	440+ servers	5 server locations	220+ servers
Streaming support	Yes — BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more	Yes — Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and more	Yes — Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and more
Learn more	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review

NordVPN: Best for countless UK servers

Customizable Coverage That is Simple to Use

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On NordVPN's website

VPN

NordVPN

Up to 66% off 2-year plans + 3 months extra

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

Who it’s best for

NordVPN is an ideal choice if your priority is a vast selection of U.K. servers, which can ensure better connectivity and optimized performance. This VPN is perfect for individuals who frequently access geo-restricted content, such as streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer or Netflix U.K., as it provides a higher chance of finding a server that meets your speed and reliability requirements.

Additionally, NordVPN's extensive server network can benefit those concerned about their online privacy and security, allowing for more options to establish a secure and encrypted connection. While the price might be slightly higher than other options, NordVPN's advanced features and reliable service make it a worthwhile investment for those who value a versatile VPN experience.

What we liked

NordVPN's impressive number of U.K. servers not only provides excellent connectivity and server choices but also ensures faster connection speeds and reduced network congestion. NordVPN has over 440 U.K. servers, so you can easily find a server that offers optimal performance for your specific needs, such as securing online browsing or streaming high-quality content.

NordVPN sets itself apart with advanced security features. Its double VPN servers route your internet traffic through two VPN servers for maximum protection. Other speciality servers designed for privacy include obfuscated servers, Onion over VPN servers, and dedicated IP. It also offers Threat Protection, which provides an additional layer of security and protection by acting as a blocker against ads, trackers, and malware.

What we didn’t like

A drawback of NordVPN is the pricing structure. If you opt for the long-term plan, it’s a competitive price at just under $4 a month. However, if you do not want to commit to a lengthy subscription, the month-by-month plans start at $12.99/mo, a significant jump. This is discouraging for those new to VPN services or who only need one for a short time.

Another issue is the lack of a free version or trial for those looking to try the service without financial commitment. Although they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, you still need to pay upfront. Google Play offers a seven-day trial period for Android mobile subscribers, but NordVPN does not offer any limited free version to test their services.

NordVPN specs

ExpressVPN: Best for speed

Extensive Server Network Provides Protection Wherever You Go

4.6

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On ExpressVPN's website

VPN

ExpressVPN

Save 49% (3 months free)

• Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
• Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
• Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

Who it’s best for

ExpressVPN is ideal for users who prioritize fast connection speeds, especially for streaming and gaming. This VPN is perfect for individuals who frequently stream high-quality content or engage in online gaming without lag or buffering issues.

ExpressVPN's superior speeds and reliable connections make it an excellent choice for those who value a seamless internet experience. While the price might be higher compared to some competitors, ExpressVPN’s performance and extensive features justify the investment for users who demand top-notch speed and stability.

What we liked

ExpressVPN stands out because of its impressive speeds, which are crucial for bandwidth-heavy activities like online gaming and streaming. Its custom VPN protocol, Lightway, was created to make your VPN connections, faster, more secure, and more reliable. According to ExpressVPN, you can expect fewer connection drops with this protocol. 

ExpressVPN is also great for accessing geo-restricted gaming or streaming services, considering it has servers in 105 countries. And because of its powerful AES-256 encryption, you can be safeguarded against any demonstrated denial of service (DDoS) attacks while protecting online gaming privacy.

To top it all off, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing consumers to test the service risk-free. ExpressVPN is a dependable U.K. VPN because of its speed, security, and streaming capabilities.

What we didn’t like

A significant drawback of ExpressVPN is its starting price compared to competitors. Its starting price can range anywhere from $6.00-$8.00/mo for a 12-month subscription, so it isn’t the most budget-friendly option. It may be hard to overlook for some users compared to VPNs offering similar features at lower prices, but others may be able to justify it for the performance and speed.

One potential drawback of ExpressVPN is its limited number of U.K. servers. ExpressVPN does not publish its server count, so with only five U.K. server locations, users may have concerns about server availability and accessibility, especially during peak times.

While ExpressVPN is known for its impressive connection speeds, having a limited number of U.K. servers might still be a concern for some, particularly if you require a VPN primarily for accessing U.K. content.

ExpressVPN specs

Surfshark: Best for streaming UK content

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Surfshark's website

VPN

Surfshark

79% off + 2 months free

• All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
• Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
• One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
• Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance

Who it’s best for

Surfshark is the ideal VPN for an affordable yet effective solution to access geo-restricted U.K. content. It caters to individuals who prioritize streaming capabilities without compromising on security and privacy features.

This VPN is perfect for budget-conscious users who want a reliable service without breaking the bank, and those who require simultaneous connections on multiple devices. Its user-friendly interface and robust customer support make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced VPN users.

What we liked

Surfshark is a good alternative for individuals looking for a low-cost VPN solution that doesn't sacrifice performance or security. You can enjoy flawless streaming experiences thanks to its fast and dependable U.K. servers.

An important feature distinguishing Surfshark is its support for unlimited connections, which allows you to secure all the devices you want in a single subscription. It also offers unlimited bandwidth, which is perfect for binge-watching.

Surfshark also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure. To protect your data, the service employs AES 256-GCM encryption. 

The VPN service provider has improved its streaming servers, allowing clients to watch high-quality video content without buffering or delays while keeping the same security standards. This is especially vital when accessing geo-restricted content from streaming sites such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer, where consistent security, speed, and steady connections are critical for a pleasant watching experience.

What we didn’t like

While Surfshark is an excellent choice for streaming, there are a few areas where it falls short compared to its competitors. One of the main drawbacks is the smaller number of servers in the U.K. compared to NordVPN. Although the connections are reliable, having fewer servers to choose from can lead to server congestion during peak hours, which may result in reduced performance and slower connection speeds.

In addition, Surfshark struggled with unblocking Netflix Canada during our latest round of testing. Netflix is always trying to block VPNs, so it may have been a one-time thing, but it's something to be mindful of if you're trying to view content from other regions.  

Surfshark specs

Honorable mentions

While evaluating the best VPNs for the U.K., several other options were considered. If our top three don't strike your fancy, you can consider one of these alternatives instead: 

• CyberGhost: CyberGhost is a popular VPN service known for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing. It boasts a large server network, dedicated streaming profiles, and strong security features, making it an attractive choice for many users. 

  Get CyberGhost | Read Our CyberGhost Review

• Private Internet Access: PIA is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market that still offers quality. It offers fast speeds, high levels of privacy and security, and it can unblock geo-restricted content.

  Get Private Internet Access | Read Our Private Internet Access Review

• IPVanish: IPVanish is another well-known VPN company that provides various features, such as a no-logs policy, powerful encryption, and an unlimited number of device connections.
  Read Our IPVanish Review

Best VPNs for the UK FAQs

Bottom line: The best VPNs for the UK

In conclusion, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are the top VPNs for the U.K.s. NordVPN offers countless U.K. servers, ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN, and Surfshark is the best choice for streaming BBC iPlayer and Netflix U.K.

3 best VPNs for the U.K.

	Starting price	Best for	Learn more
NordVPN	$3.99/mo	Best for countless U.K. servers	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review
ExpressVPN	Starts at $12.95/mo	Best for speed	Get ExpressVPN  Read ExpressVPN Review
Surfshark	Starts $2.29/mo	Best for streaming UK content	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review

How we tested the best VPN services for the UK

To determine the top three VPNs for the U.K., we rigorously tested various VPN services by focusing on crucial features. We evaluated each VPN provider based on a set of essential criteria to ensure they deliver a reliable, fast, and secure connection, as well as the ability to access geo-restricted content. The following features were considered in our testing process:

• Number of U.K. servers: A higher number of U.K. servers ensures that users have more options to choose from, translating to better connection speeds and reduced server congestion.
• Connection speeds: Fast connection speeds are vital for activities like streaming, gaming, and downloading, so we prioritized VPNs with consistently high speeds in our tests.
• Encryption and security protocols: A good VPN app should offer robust encryption and a variety of security protocols to protect user data and maintain privacy. We looked for VPNs that use industry-standard encryption methods and support multiple protocols.
• Logging policies: A strict no-logs policy is essential for ensuring user privacy, so we focused on VPNs that do not store user activity data.
• Ability to unblock streaming platforms: For users who want to access geo-restricted content like other countries’ Netflix libraries, we prioritized VPNs that can consistently unblock popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix U.K. and BBC iPlayer.
• Pricing and affordability: We considered the overall value provided by each VPN service, considering their features, performance, and pricing plans to ensure that users get the best bang for their buck.

Customizable Coverage That is Simple to Use

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On NordVPN's website

VPN

NordVPN

Up to 66% off 2-year plans + 3 months extra

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

Author Details

Ryan L. Clancy

About the Author

Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.