How to Watch BBC From Anywhere In the USA

If you’re missing out on your favorite British TV shows and BBC News due to regional restrictions, we have a solution: a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN will allow you to keep up with all that BBC iPlayer has to offer, even when you’re in America.

Whether you’re a fan of watching British dramas, insightful documentaries, or the latest news from the U.K., we’ll teach you how to use a VPN to watch BBC in the U.S. Keep in mind that while BBC America and BritBox do offer British TV programmes, they don’t have a comprehensive offering compared to BBC iPlayer.

Learn more in this guide and explore the best VPN software to start streaming BBC iPlayer without restrictions.

How to watch BBC in the U.S.

The best way to watch the BBC in the U.S. and access content on BBC iPlayer is to use a VPN. If you’re wondering what a VPN is, it secures your internet connection, can change your IP address to make you appear as if you’re in a different location, and can even optimize the speeds of your streaming.

Since BBC iPlayer is only available to U.K. users and is restricted to anyone elsewhere in the world, you’ll need to use a VPN to bypass these geo-restrictions and enjoy watching BBC content.

Here’s how to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN:

1. Connect to a VPN: Choose a VPN service and connect to a server in the U.K. This makes it appear as if you're browsing from within the U.K., allowing you to access BBC iPlayer. Ensure that the VPN you choose offers specialized servers optimized for streaming. We recommend using one of the best VPNs for streaming.
2. Access BBC iPlayer: Navigate to the BBC iPlayer website, which is the best choice for accessing a wide range of British TV programs, including exclusive content not available on other platforms.
3. Create an account and log in: If you don't already have one, sign up for a free BBC iPlayer account. During registration, you'll need to enter a U.K. postcode. Logging in allows you to access BBC iPlayer's features and save your favorite shows.
4. Start watching: Once logged in, you can stream your favorite BBC shows and programs. Enjoy the extensive content library that BBC iPlayer offers.

Why do you need a VPN to watch the BBC?

A VPN is necessary to stream BBC iPlayer because geo-restrictions limit access to viewers within the U.K. These geo-restrictions are often imposed due to licensing agreements, regional broadcasting rights, or even content distribution regulations.

That’s why when you access BBC iPlayer content from the U.S. without a VPN, you will be blocked from viewing it since the service detects your location.

However, a VPN masks your IP address, making it appear as though you are located in the U.K., bypassing these restrictions. Other perks include optimized streaming speeds, enhanced privacy, and secure data when using top-notch VPN software.

Best VPNs to watch the BBC in the U.S.

To enjoy uninterrupted streaming of BBC iPlayer, you need a reliable VPN. Here are three of the best VPNs for streaming BBC content:

• ExpressVPN: With 400 servers in the U.K. and ultra-fast 10 Gbps server speeds, ExpressVPN is our top choice for streaming BBC iPlayer. It has server locations throughout England, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and Jersey. Plus, it offers streaming-optimized servers, fast and secure VPN protocols, and strong encryption to ensure a seamless streaming experience.

  Get ExpressVPN | Read ExpressVPN Review

• NordVPN: NordVPN is a great choice, thanks to its 6,000+ ultra-fast servers worldwide, unlimited speed and bandwidth, and 24/7 live chat support. It offers dedicated IP addresses, including one in the U.K., as well as obfuscated servers to sidestep network blocks—perfect for reliably bypassing geo-restrictions.

  Get NordVPN | Read NordVPN Review

• Surfshark: Surfshark has 212 servers in the U.K. across London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Surfshark’s fast speeds allow you to stream your favorite shows buffer-free on an unlimited number of devices, making it ideal for large households.

  Get Surfshark |Read Surfshark Review

How to choose a VPN for the BBC

When selecting a VPN to watch the BBC, several key features must be considered to ensure a smooth and reliable streaming experience.

Provides fast speeds

Fast internet speeds are crucial for streaming without buffering. Look for VPNs that offer high-speed connections and minimal slowdowns. Ideal speeds for streaming are at least 5 Mbps for HD quality and 25 Mbps for 4K.

The best VPNs also optimize their servers for streaming, ensuring that your favorite shows load quickly and play smoothly without interruption.

Has secure servers

Secure servers protect your data and ensure uninterrupted streaming. Choose VPNs with strong encryption and reliable security protocols. Connecting to servers in the U.K. is essential to access BBC iPlayer.

Also, look for features like AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies to keep your online activities private and secure.

Works with BBC iPlayer

Some streaming services block VPN usage. The best VPNs for BBC iPlayer have the technology to bypass these blocks. Ensure your VPN has a proven track record of working with BBC iPlayer and other streaming services.

Regularly updated servers and dedicated IP addresses can also help maintain access to restricted content.

Offers good value for money

Consider the cost of the VPN service. A good VPN should offer better value than subscribing to BritBox or similar services. Look for features like multiple device support and long-term subscription discounts.

It's also wise to choose a VPN with a money-back guarantee, which allows you to test the service risk-free.

Comes with customer support

Reliable customer support is essential for troubleshooting issues. Choose VPNs with 24/7 customer support and multiple contact options, such as live chat and email.

Good customer support can quickly resolve any connectivity problems, ensuring you can continue streaming without hassle.

Has apps for multiple devices

Ensure your VPN supports a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. Compatibility across various platforms enhances your streaming flexibility.

The best VPNs offer user-friendly apps that are easy to install and use, allowing you to switch between devices seamlessly.

What if your VPN for the BBC doesn’t work?

If you’ve signed up for a VPN service but you still can’t access BBC content, consider if your VPN is working. If yes, consider getting a dedicated IP address, switching VPN protocols, or contacting customer support.

Most streaming services have advanced VPN detection and can block you even while using one.

If your VPN isn’t working with BBC iPlayer, here are a few troubleshooting steps:

• Clear cookies: Clear your browser’s cookies and cache to remove location data.
• Change servers: Switch to a different U.K. server.
• Configure VPN settings: Adjust settings like the protocol or enable features like obfuscation.
• Contact the VPN’s customer support: Seek assistance from your VPN provider’s support team.
• Change VPNs: Consider using a different VPN service if issues persist.

FAQs

Bottom line

BBC iPlayer offers a wealth of British programs that aren't fully available in the U.S., even through channels like BBC America or services like BritBox. From gripping dramas to insightful documentaries, the quality of content on BBC iPlayer is unmatched.

A VPN is the only way to access the full range of BBC iPlayer content. By using a VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy your favorite British shows as if you were in the U.K. So don’t miss out— get the best VPN software today and start streaming BBC iPlayer seamlessly anywhere in the U.S.

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Author Details

Mars Groves

About the Author

Mars is a California-based cybersecurity professional and writer currently pursuing a B.S. in Cybersecurity. With interests ranging from OSINT to ethical hacking and threat intelligence, Mars leverages his two years of writing experience to produce informative content on topics such as Internet guides and VPNs.