Best VPN for UK in May 2025

As of May 2025, NordVPN remains the best VPN for the UK, as it has more than 440 VPN servers in the United Kingdom, the fastest VPN speeds available, and robust security tools. It’s also the best VPN for unblocking geo-blocked websites that aren’t available outside the UK.

You need a UK VPN if you want to unblock region-locked websites such as BBC iPlayer and ITVX. This will allow you to watch UK TV shows and the hottest sports tournaments, such as the Euros, Premier League, and Six Nations – all for free. Even residents of the United Kingdom need a VPN to continue accessing their favorite streaming services while traveling.

The best UK VPNs will also give you robust security features, keeping you safe when you access unsecured public Wi-Fi networks during your travels. That’s why I tested 20 of the best VPN providers with UK servers – keep reading for a rundown of the best UK VPN to choose from.

🏷️ LIMITED OFFER: Get 76% OFF + up to 10GB eSIM data 🏷️

Top 5 VPNs for UK: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   Overall best VPN for UK IP addresses
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Affordable VPN with fast UK connections
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Freemium VPN to get a UK IP
   8.6
4. TotalVPN

   Cheapest UK VPN subscriptions and robust security
   8.2
5. IPVanish

   UK VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections
   8.4

Why do I need a VPN for UK?

Using a VPN within the UK serves a range of purposes, catering to both residents and international users who want to unblock geo-restricted content and access enhanced online privacy.

A United Kingdom VPN lets foreign nationals access UK-specific streaming platforms, including ITVX, BBC iPlayer, and Channel 4 by assigning a UK IP address and removing geo-restrictions. Without that IP address, these services will remain blocked to anybody trying to access them from other countries around the world. Many sports are exclusive to UK streaming services, and a VPN is required to access them.

However, a VPN in the United Kingdom also benefits residents, as you can unblock geo-restricted content in other countries. For example, I’ve used NordVPN on a UK VPN server to unblock US Netflix, Optus Sport in Australia, and Disney+ Hotstar in India. Much like the UK, some countries have exclusive sports content in their own region, so a VPN is essential for keeping up with all of the biggest tournaments.

Beyond unblocking capabilities, a VPN also offers crucial online privacy and security protections, especially on public Wi-Fi networks. It can stop your ISP (internet service provider) from throttling your speed if you regularly game, stream, and torrent. But more importantly, it can protect you from the recent increase in internet surveillance under the UK’s expanding online safety laws.

Finally, it can even save you money by getting you cheaper hotels and flights, for example. Some countries enjoy different travel pricing, and by getting a new IP address in a cheaper location, you can benefit from region-specific deals.

Best UK VPNs in 2025: detailed list

1. NordVPN – the overall best VPN for the United Kingdom
2. Surfshark – budget-friendly UK VPN with high-speed connections
3. Proton VPN – freemium UK VPN with robust security features
4. TotalVPN – cheapest VPN for UK IP addresses
5. IPVanish – reliable VPN with unlimited connections

I’ve tested 20 of the best VPNs, assessing which are the top choices to get a UK IP address. Below, I’ve included a detailed review of my chosen and recommended VPNs for the UK.

Top 1. NordVPN - best VPN for the UK overall

After thorough testing, NordVPN is still the best VPN for the UK outright, due to having the fastest connection speeds, the greatest number of UK VPN servers (440+), and airtight security and privacy features that won’t give your true location away.

Extensive UK Server Network & Fast Speeds:

NordVPN boasts an impressive and fast-growing network of 7400+ servers in 118+ countries, including 440+ UK VPN servers. Using Quick Connect means you can promptly join the fastest available server without having to choose one for yourself – ideal if you need enhanced security but aren't worried about having a specific IP address. What's more, you can pay a small additional fee to get a dedicated IP address that's not shared with anyone else using the service. Overall, I was left impressed with NordVPN's speeds during in-house tests, which averaged at 468 Mbps on a 500 Mbps baseline connection, making it a solid streaming and gaming VPN.

Privacy & Security for UK Residents:

NordVPN combines a strict no-logging policy with powerful AES-256 encryption, ensuring that your data and online activity remain hidden and that you can't be tracked. These are important benefits to any web user, but they're even more important now that the UK has passed the Online Safety Act, which increases the online surveillance capabilities of UK authorities and ISPs. It's also worth mentioning that you can use NordVPN to bypass the new ID requirements that adult entertainment websites are mandated to follow from 2025.

Unblocking UK & International Content:

NordVPN excelled in my unblocking tests, allowing me to bypass geo-restrictions and access BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4 from outside the UK. This is ideal for sports fans, as BBC and ITV commonly have exclusive rights to major sports tournaments like the Premier League, Euros, and Wimbledon – and more importantly, these services are free to watch if you have a UK IP address. But residents of the UK can benefit too, as during my colleague’s NordVPN review, they were to access websites like Hulu and YouTube TV+ in the US by changing to a US VPN server.

Secure Torrenting & P2P Sharing in the UK:

If you want to torrent, NordVPN's dedicated torrenting servers will help you get the best results possible. These servers are optimized for high-data transfer activities, helping you download and seed files more quickly. However, the added benefit here is that because NordVPN cloaks your IP address, your internet service provider (ISP) can't track what you're doing online. Since some ISPs throttle your connection speed if you're torrenting large files, this is invaluable – they won't be able to slow your connection.

Public Wi-Fi Security & Safe Browsing in the UK:

NordVPN's Quick Connect feature is a boon for people who regularly use public Wi-Fi networks that are known for being inherently unsecure and lacking encryption. This means, hackers can spy on networks and intercept your data. However, with Quick Connect, you can hit the connect button to immediately join the fastest available server instead of choosing one yourself. Additionally, NordVPN's Threat Protection feature scans files for malware before you download them, blocks malicious and phishing websites, and can even block malicious adverts to reduce your exposure to cyberthreats.

Compatibility & Pricing for UK Users:

NordVPN works across a broad range of operating systems and devices. Beyond support for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, NordVPN can also be installed on Fire Sticks, smart TVs, and even routers. Pricing starts from $3.39/month with a NordVPN coupon code, and you can start with a 7-day free trial on Android if you get the app from the Google Play Store. Otherwise, all new subscribers get a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to test the service risk free.

Top 2. Surfshark - cheap VPN with UK servers

Surfshark is the best VPN for the UK due to inexpensive subscriptions that still give you unlimited simultaneous connections and some of the fastest VPN speeds available.

Extensive UK Server Network & Fast Speeds:

Surfshark offers fast speeds across its network of 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, with 360+ high-performance servers in UK locations that include London, Manchester, and Glasgow. Surfshark also offers dedicated IPs, allowing you to have your own private connection, which helps avoid congestion-related speed dips. Based on my in-house test circuit, Surfshark's average download speeds of 466 Mbps were fast enough for HD and even 4K streaming, gaming, and teleconferencing.

Privacy & Security for UK Residents:

Surfshark uses robust AES-256 encryption and secure protocols that include OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the lightning-fast WireGuard. It has an independently audited and strict no-logs policy, which is essential in the UK because ISPs are legally required to retain user data. When you use a UK VPN to connect to the internet, your ISP won't be able to intercept and retain your online activity logs. However, Surfshark avoids this requirement entirely as it is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, outside of UK, EU, and US data jurisdictions.

Unblocking UK & International Content:

During my performance testing, Surfshark proved effective at unblocking major UK streaming platforms. I could easily access BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5 using my UK VPN connection. This makes it a solid choice for UK expats or travelers wanting remote access to their favorite channels and sports streams. As with NordVPN, we were also able to unblock streaming services in the US, Canada, and other European locations while writing our Surfshark VPN review.

Secure Torrenting & P2P Sharing in the UK:

Torrenting is permitted on all Surfshark servers, though your connection automatically redirects to optimized servers when P2P file sharing activity is detected. This is to benefit you, ensuring you get the best possible speeds and security. Since anonymity is important when torrenting, Surfshark's built-in kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and private DNS features help protect you against malicious tracking by third parties in your torrent swarm.

Public Wi-Fi Security & Safe Browsing in the UK:

Connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots can leave you vulnerable to snooping and man-in-the-middle attacks. A hacker can eavesdrop on an unencrypted connection and siphon off your data, like your login credentials. However, Surfshark protects your connection with military-grade encryption to fully hide your data from malicious third parties. I recommend ensuring that you use the auto-connect feature, which automatically connects your VPN as soon as you join a network.

Compatibility & Pricing for UK Users:

Surfshark apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, and as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Coupled with Surfshark's support for unlimited simultaneous connections, it's a solid choice for families or multi-device VPN users. It also happens to be one of the most affordable premium VPNs, starting from $1.99/month. Start with a 7-day free trial on Android or iOS, or enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee across all platforms.

Top 3. Proton VPN - freemium UK VPN with robust security features

Proton VPN is one of the best UK VPNs owing to impressive speeds and extensive security features for users of the Plus and Visionary plans. It also offers a completely free tier that, while limited on features, provides you with unlimited data to try Proton VPN out risk free.

Extensive UK Server Network & Fast Speeds:

Proton VPN has a vast server network of 9900+ servers in 117+ countries, including high-speed Plus servers in London and Manchester. Speeds during my test circuit were excellent, averaging 429 Mbps across 10 international VPN servers that included servers in both UK locations. Dedicated IPs aren't widely available, reserved for business use, but Proton VPN does offer Secure Core routing – a double VPN feature that provides enhanced privacy without any large impact on speeds.

Privacy & Security for UK Residents:

Proton VPN is one of the most privacy-focused VPNs available, employing AES-256 encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and open-source VPN apps for transparency. Since it's headquartered in Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from strong data privacy laws and more importantly, sits outside of data-sharing alliances like 5 Eyes. The provider has a strict no-logs policy and is an overall solid choice for UK users or geo-visitors who are wary of government or ISP tracking under the Investigatory Powers Act or Online Safety Act.

Unblocking UK & International Content:

Proton VPN performed well during my unblocking tests, giving me access to UK streaming sites like BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, and ITVX from test locations in the US. However, it's worth noting that I tested Proton VPN with the Visionary plan – a Plus or Visionary plan is needed to access the Plus servers, and some users have reported that these are the servers most capable of bypassing geo-restrictions. For UK users trying to watch content abroad (e.g. Netflix US, Disney+, or Hulu) or residents traveling outside of the UK, I can confirm that I was able to unblock these sites from outside of their respective countries.

Secure Torrenting & P2P Sharing in the UK:

Proton VPN allows P2P file sharing, but only on specific P2P-enabled servers. Don't worry, though; if you try to torrent while connected to a different server, the app will automatically route your connection to a suitable server. Unfortunately, there are no dedicated torrenting servers for the United Kingdom just yet, but I still saw secure and high-speed P2P connections on the 10 international servers that I tested.

Public Wi-Fi Security & Safe Browsing in the UK:

Proton VPN includes an always-on VPN feature and a kill switch – both crucial for staying protected on dodgy public Wi-Fi around the UK. Combined with AES-256 encryption and IP/DNS leak protection, snoopers and hackers won't be able to intercept your personal data, even on open networks like cafés, trains, or airports. Their Secure Core feature routes your data traffic through secure servers in privacy-friendly countries like Iceland and Sweden, ensuring that it can't be deciphered or tracked. This is partly why this VPN scored very well for security in our Proton VPN review.

Compatibility & Pricing for UK Users:

Proton VPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers, and it includes support for up to 10 devices on the Plus plan. It’s not the cheapest VPN available, but its security and privacy measures justify the additional cost. You can also get started with a limited free tier, though you won't be able to choose the UK specifically – you're at the mercy of random server assignment. That said, Proton VPN's 30-day money-back guarantee will let you test it properly as there are no restrictions on features. Pricing starts from $2.99/month for a premium plan.

Top 4. TotalVPN - cheapest VPN to get UK IP address

TotalVPN is a top UK VPN, offering powerful speeds and essential security features at a budget-friendly price. While its small server fleet can result in occasional speed dips due to congestion, its low-cost plans make it an accessible option on a budget.

Extensive UK Server Network & Fast Speeds:

TotalVPN offers a modest 50+ servers in 35+ countries. However, those servers offer speedy connections that averaged 417 Mbps across the 10 international VPN servers that I tested. Its server numbers in the UK are unlisted, but I was able to get a UK IP address and access blocked content. Bear in mind that no dedicated IPs are available, so you could feel those speed dips during busy periods.

Privacy & Security for UK Residents:

While TotalVPN has a no-logs policy, it's owned by a parent company based in the UK, which means it falls under Five Eyes jurisdiction. What’s more, unlike some premium VPN providers, there is no independent audit. That said, there have also been no controversial privacy breaches involving TotalVPN, so this is not necessarily an immediate concern. TotalVPN also uses AES-256 encryption and supports secure protocols OpenVPN and IKEv2, and I saw no evidence of IP or DNS leaks during my tests.

Unblocking UK & International Content:

During our TotalVPN review, we found that this VPN can typically unblock UK streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and ITVX, as well as some US content on Netflix. These websites were certainly accessible during my tests with this UK VPN. However, it has been known to struggle on some occasions with sites like Disney+ and Netflix, where more advanced VPN detection measures can block you. This is due to TotalVPN’s smaller server network and greater chance of having a server blacklisted.

Secure Torrenting & P2P Sharing in the UK:

Torrenting is possible on some TotalVPN servers, and the VPN’s AES-256 encryption and secure tunneling protocols offer a good layer of protection for everyday use. However, the lack of more secure features such as multi-hop and obfuscation mean that you’ll have less protection than you’d get with a UK VPN like NordVPN, for example. Still, for a budget VPN, it’s secure enough to engage in P2P file sharing.

Public Wi-Fi Security & Safe Browsing in the UK:

TotalVPN offers basic security features that keep you safe on public Wi-Fi networks, including AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. However, it lacks advanced security functions like anti-malware, ad-blocking, and advanced threat detection. These aren’t essential features, but they can help keep you safe during an error of judgement, such as if you’ve accidentally clicked on a phishing link or entered a malicious website by mistake.

Compatibility & Pricing for UK Users:

TotalVPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as Fire Stick and Android TV. It also has some limited support for router installations, though it lacks browser extensions or Linux support. Subscriptions start from just $1.59/month, and while there’s no free trial available, you can get a 30-day money-back guarantee to test TotalVPN risk free.

Top 5. IPVanish - reliable VPN for the UK users

IPVanish is the best UK VPN due to offering unlimited simultaneous connections, strong encryption, and lightning-fast servers capable of unblocking UK streaming services.

Extensive UK Server Network & Fast Speeds:

IPVanish boasts a strong server network with 2400+ servers in 109+ countries worldwide, including 100+ servers in the UK. Speeds are excellent across the board – I saw an average download speed of 459 Mbps across 10 international servers. With that, I was easily able to stream sports on BBC iPlayer and ITVX without any lag or buffering. It doesn’t offer dedicated IPs, but users do get unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is rare.

Privacy & Security for UK Residents:

IPVanish is headquartered in the US, which is a Five Eyes Alliance surveillance country. While this initially raised privacy concerns during my tests, I see that it now enforces a strict no-logs policy. This has been independently audited by Leviathan Security Group, giving legitimacy to the claims and resolving any privacy worries. Security-wise, it uses AES-256 encryption, supports the WireGuard protocol for faster and more secure connections, and includes a built-in kill switch and leak protection to prevent data leaks that could expose your location.

Unblocking UK & International Content:

IPVanish reliably unblocked major UK streaming services during my test circuit, including BBC iPlayer and Channel 4. However, it also performed well in international tests as part of our IPVanish review, unblocking US Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Sling TV. Thanks to the fast and responsive servers, I was able to stream in resolution up to 4K without any noticeable lag or buffering issues.

Secure Torrenting & P2P Sharing in the UK:

IPVanish allows P2P file sharing on all servers and offers free SOCKS5 proxy support for faster, anonymous downloads. What’s more, the built-in kill switch and DNS leak protection add peace of mind, protecting your true identity, while encryption ensures that nobody in your torrent swarm can track your location.

Public Wi-Fi Security & Safe Browsing in the UK:

IPVanish excels at securing public Wi-Fi sessions thanks to dedicated tools. Along with AES-256 encryption, it offers an auto-connect feature that automatically activates your VPN on unsecured networks. Its LAN blocking feature also stops local devices on the same network from communicating with yours, adding another layer of security. Additionally, DNS and IP leak protection protect real location and online activity from prying eyes.

Compatibility & Pricing for UK Users:

IPVanish apps support all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and more – and it can be used on unlimited simultaneous devices. Compatibility also includes router support so that you can protect all the devices in your household with a single installation. In terms of pricing, IPVanish isn't the cheapest but prices are affordable starting from $2.19/month.

Best UK VPNs compared

In looking for the best UK VPNs, I collated key information to help me make my decision, including connection speeds, affordability, and server availability. To help you make your choice, I’ve included key facts on each provider in the table below.

How I tested and selected best VPNs for the UK in May 2025

I began my search for the best VPNs in the UK by selecting 20 of the best VPN services, before narrowing them down against specific criteria. When making my recommendations, I took the following factors into account:

1. Speed (25% weighting): Speed is essential for torrenting, gaming, and streaming, besides also having access to responsive browsing. That’s why I benchmarked my connection speeds, before running comprehensive tests with Ookla’s speed testing tool to understand how each UK VPN compares.
2. Security (30% weighting): A VPN is useless unless it can properly encrypt your data and hide your online location. I tested for DNS and IP leaks with browserleaks.net, as well as testing features like the kill switch to ensure that each security measure worked as intended.
3. Server fleet (25% weighting): Having access to a large server fleet increases your worldwide reach, allowing you to block websites in countries around the world. More servers also mean less congestion from other users, helping prevent speed dips. However, I also looked for features like dedicated servers for specific activities.
4. Unblocking capabilities (20% weighting): Some VPNs simply aren’t robust enough to bypass geo-restrictions, particularly on sites like Netflix that wage an anti-VPN war. That’s why my tests included attempting to unblock popular streaming platforms in the UK, such as BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, My5, and ITVX.
   

While Surfshark and Proton VPN performed well, it was ultimately NordVPN that excelled in all areas with the fastest UK VPN speeds, a broad server network, airtight security and anonymity features, and affordable pricing.

Get NordVPN, now 76% off

Internet bans and digital regulations in the UK

The UK is generally considered to have a free and open internet, but it also has various digital regulations that impact online privacy and free access to content. These measures are supposedly intended to offer security to and protect users, but they also raise concerns about surveillance, censorship, and digital freedom.

Digital regulations

One of the most significant laws affecting UK internet users is the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA). This law hands authorities extensive internet surveillance powers – for example, requiring ISPs to store users' browsing data for up to 12 months. The Online Safety Bill is another major piece of legislation that’s designed to protect users from harmful online content. It requires tech companies to remove illegal and harmful material from their platforms, particularly when it poses a risk to minors. While its goal is to improve online safety, there are again concerns about the potential for over-censorship and its impact on free speech and unrestricted access to unbiased information or internet resources in general.

Following in the footsteps of the US, the UK has also begun to introduce a porn age verification law, requiring users to verify their age before accessing adult content. Privacy gurus worry that these measures could lead to data breaches or improper handling of sensitive personal information, as the process would require any user who accesses such content to hand over their identification.

Content restrictions

The UK enforces website blocks for copyright purposes, to impose gambling restrictions, and for other legal reasons. ISPs also use web filtering to block certain types of content by default, and users are expected to opt out rather than opting into such blocking. These restrictions, while intended for legal compliance, can limit access to information and also raise concerns about the right to free access.

Privacy concerns

As digital regulations expand, concerns over government surveillance and online restrictions continue to grow. This is where a VPN can help you to protect your privacy and take back your internet freedoms. Data encryption prevents ISPs and authorities from tracking your online activity, while the ability to change your IP address lets you bypass content restrictions, ensuring unrestricted access to the internet.

Get NordVPN, now 76% off

Are VPNs legal in the UK?

Yes, using a VPN in the UK is completely legal; the United Kingdom doesn’t ban VPNs nor impose any legislative restrictions on using them for internet access. Of course, using a VPN for illegal activities doesn’t stop them from being illegal. Downloading pirated content or purchasing illegal items on the dark web can lead to legal trouble. In other words, using a VPN in the UK is legal, but it’s important to use it responsibly and within the law.

Get NordVPN, now 76% off

Most popular VPN use cases for users in the UK

Whether living in the UK or traveling abroad, a VPN increases your access to global entertainment content, cheaper hotels and flights, and improved anonymity online. Here are the most popular use cases for VPN users in the United Kingdom:

• Streaming US content: A VPN lets you access Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and ESPN+, among others. These sites are usually blocked to UK residents.
• Watching Canadian content: Users can also unblock and stream Crave, TSN, and Canadian Netflix, giving them access to region-specific shows and movies.
• Unblocking Australian TV & sports: A VPN enables live streaming from Kayo Sports, 7plus, Optus, and Stan, all of which are blocked outside Australia.
• Improving privacy & unblocking websites: UK ISPs block certain sites by default, but a VPN allows you to take back your choice and internet freedom.
• Using UK financial services abroad: You could risk being blocked by your bank unless you use a VPN to access your apps and accounts while away from home.
• Saving money on flights & subscriptions: By changing your location, you can get cheaper deals that are only available in other countries.

Get NordVPN, now 76% off

Conclusion

You need a UK VPN if you want to access UK-specific platforms like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4 outside of the UK. If you’re a resident of another country or simply a Brit heading on vacation, you won’t be able to access these geo-blocked sites without a VPN. However, as a resident of the United Kingdom, you can benefit from the software too – you can change your IP address to any other country in the world, accessing region-specific sports tournaments, TV channels, and foreign content libraries without ever leaving your home.

NordVPN is the best VPN for the UK, offering affordable IP addresses, the fastest VPN speeds available, and the most powerful security measures for sidestepping geo-blocks and avoiding detection by sites like Netflix that attempt to block VPN usage.

---

---

FAQ

What is the best VPN to use in the UK?

NordVPN is the best VPN to use in the UK, offering the greatest number of UK VPN servers, the fastest connection speeds, and the ability to unblock UK websites from abroad. This was determined by my colleagues and I after testing 20 VPN providers and analyzing each one for its server fleet, connection speeds, privacy and security features, and affordability.

Does NordVPN have servers in the UK?

Yes, NordVPN offers over 440 VPN servers in the United Kingdom that can unblock BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and other geo-restricted websites. During our in-house tests, NordVPN delivered speeds exceeding 450 Mbps, allowing lag-free streaming of your favorite UK TV shows and major sports tournaments no matter where you are in the world.

Can a VPN be tracked in the United Kingdom?

Generally, a VPN cannot be tracked in the United Kingdom or elsewhere – IP cloaking and other security features hide your online activity from third parties, including your internet service provider. However, it’s important to understand that any authorities with sufficient motivation and resources could track you down, which is why it’s essential to use your VPN within the boundaries of the law.

Is it legal to use a VPN in the UK?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN in the UK, but it’s still illegal to use a VPN for illegal activities, such as copyright infringement or purchasing illegal items. The United Kingdom currently has no legislation banning the use of VPN technology. What’s more, many users access a UK VPN like NordVPN to protect themselves from increasing online surveillance.