
IT’S not easy to find the best online casinos in the UK from a list of hundreds (if not thousands) of licensed operators competing for your attention. That’s why our team uses the Sun Factor, our own data-driven ranking system that scores each online casino in the UK based on key criteria, including safety, game variety, user experience, bonuses, and payout speed.
Our list is updated regularly to reflect current offers, new features, and player feedback. Each operator is reviewed against strict benchmarks to ensure fair play and transparency, so our readers can confidently choose from a list of quality casinos based on their personal preferences.
This month, Casumo earns the top spot as our best online casino, recognised for its well-designed platform, diverse game selection, and consistently strong reputation with UK players. We’ve also partnered with Betway, highlighting it as an excellent alternative for players seeking a one-stop shop for both casino and sportsbook needs.
But that’s only the beginning: we’ve compiled a list of 20 of our favourite casinos in the UK, and found those that excel in specific areas, such as offering the best slot games or the fastest money withdrawals.
Top 20 online casinos UK
🌟 Best online casino overall – Casumo
UKGC license number: 61549
- Sun Factor rank: 4.88 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 100% up to £100 + 50 Bonus Spins
- Wagering requirement: 30x
- Casino games: 3,500+
- Minimum Deposit: £10 ( for the welcome bonus)
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple Pay, PayPal, Trustly, PaysafeCard, Skrill, Instant Banking
- Payout time: between 24 hours and 5 business days
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email, phone
Although only around since 2012, Casumo has become one of the most established names in the UK online casino scene. It got there by combining a great game selection with a well-designed website and some genuinely worthwhile promotions for both new and existing players.
The site’s intuitive layout and quick navigation make it a breeze to use on both desktop and mobile devices, and Casumo’s apps are some of the best in the business.
A standout feature is its proprietary “Casumoverse” system, which gamifies online play through player missions, trophies, and level-ups that reward engagement beyond what standard bonuses at other casinos do.
Add to that a reliable platform licensed and regulated by top industry bodies like the UKGC and MGA, and provenly fast, secure transactions via debit cards, modern banking solutions, and popular e-wallets, and you have a polished, player-centric platform that continues to impress.
For a more detailed look at the casino, including a breakdown of its promotions, game selection, and more, read our full Casumo casino review.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Unique gamified rewards system | ❌ £20 minimum deposit for welcome bonus |
✅ Most withdrawals processed within 24h | ❌ Withdrawals under £10 come with a fee |
✅Very fast & helpful customer support team |
Top online casino sites by specific feature
Different players value different things in an online casino. Some sites stand out for slots, offering thousands of popular titles like Big Bass Splash or high-stakes jackpot games, while others excel in live dealer tables or even niche favourites like Bingo, and appeal to players who enjoy strategy and real-time interaction.
Some casinos offer top-tier mobile apps that let players get in on the action from anywhere, while others may focus on crafting the best loyalty programs or the strongest initial deposit match offers. Whatever your preferences or style of play, our list has got you covered.
Casino site | Best for | UKGC License No. |
---|---|---|
VideoSlots | Slots | 39380 |
bet365 | Live dealer games | 55149 |
Mr Vegas | Blackjack | 39380 |
Party Casino | Roulette | 54743 |
GG Poker | Poker | 47768 |
HotStreak | Pay by mobile | 57869 |
Duelz | Fast withdrawals | 48695 |
MrQ | Free spins | 60629 |
PokerStars | No deposit offer | 39108 |
Betway | Mobile app | 39372 |
🎰 Best online casino for slots – VideoSlots
UKGC license number: 39380
- Sun Factor rank: 4.4 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 100% Welcome Bonus up to £200 & 11 Wager-Free Spins
- Wagering requirement: 35x (1x for the free spins)
- Casino games: 12,000+
- Minimum deposit: £10
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfers, Trustly, Rapid Transfer, ecoPayz, Neosurf, Apple Pay, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, PaysafeCard, MuchBetter
- Payout time: up to 48 hours for most payment methods
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email, phone
Even among the best slot sites in the UK, VideoSlots stands out with over 12,000 casino games from nearly 100 providers, including industry leaders such as Microgaming and Playtech.
Players can sort games alphabetically, by type, popularity, rating, or provider, or use the robust search function. There is even the option to see game payout rates and current payout trends, and sort games by the highest payout.
The site has numerous ongoing tournaments, but our favourites are the Clash of Spins and Battle of Slots. The former features ongoing free-to-join daily multiplayer games with wager-free rewards and free spins if you can beat other players by getting larger wins.
Battle of Slots offers pre-scheduled, buy-in slot tournaments where you compete against other players for a share of the pre-determined prize pool. Finally, there is also the Wheel of Jackpots, which rewards players just for playing on the site with a chance to win one of three jackpots: the Mega Jackpot, Major Jackpot, and Mini Jackpot.
Pros | Cons |
✅Largest slot selection in the UK | ❌ £20 minimum fee-free withdrawal |
✅Unique multiplayer slot tournaments | ❌ Limited number of promotions |
✅No wagering on some free-spin offers |
🤵 Best online casino for live dealer games – bet365
UKGC license number: 55149
- Sun Factor rank: 4.52 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: Get up to 500 Free Spins in total
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: 2,000+
- Minimum deposit: £5
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maelstro, bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Trustly, PaysafeCard
- Payout time: Most within 24 hours, but bank wire transfers can take up to 10 days
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email, X
When it comes to dealer games, bet365 is the best live casino in the UK market. The site’s live casino section offers a strong selection of games powered largely by Playtech, including numerous variants of poker, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and big wheel game shows.
In addition to a large selection of table and live casino games, there are several exclusives made especially for bet365, such as Boost Roulette, Super Mega Ultra Live, and numerous “365-ied” versions of classic games like Baccarat and Blackjack.
The platform features highly professional dealers and supports very wide bet ranges that accommodate anyone from complete beginners to seasoned high-stakes players. Graphics and stream quality are some of the best on the market; the tables are clean, the UI responsive, and the dealers highly entertaining.
Players can filter games by type or provider, and bet365 casino openly shows return to player (RTP) percentages for each game. There is even a dedicated section explaining what RTP and Volatility in games are, showing the casino’s commitment to transparency.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Highly professional dealers | ❌High minimum stake on some tables |
✅ Numerous exclusive live games | ❌ Limited live poker options |
✅ Large range of betting limits |
♠️ Best online casino for blackjack – Mr Vegas
UKGC license number: 39380
- Sun Factor rank: 4.4 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 100% up to £200 + 11 No-Wager FS
- Wagering requirement: 35x (1x for the free spins)
- Casino games: 8,000+
- Minimum deposit: £10
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Trustly, PaysafeCard
- Payout time: E-wallets are instant; other methods can take up to five business days
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone, email
Whether you’re looking for fully digital blackjack games or immersive experiences with live dealers, Mr Vegas has you covered. Featuring over 40 RNG and more than 260 live dealer tables, it has the best online blackjack collection we’ve found at any gambling site in the UK.
On RNG tables, you’ll find everything from European and American Blackjack to exotic options like Blackjack 21+3, which will especially appeal to side-bet fans. The live dealer tables are mostly provided by Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play, and range from the classic to modern variants like Speed Blackjack, Party Blackjack, and Lightning Blackjack.
The site uses the same platform as VideoSlots, ensuring players can easily access relevant game information, and the video quality and game loading speeds are some of the best in the industry.
While the ongoing promotions are mostly focused on slot games, players can win boosted payouts during Rainbow Fridays or get a chance to win one of the site’s three ongoing jackpots just by playing blackjack or other games.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅Huge selection of live dealer tables | ❌ One free daily withdrawal (£2.50 fee after) |
✅Numerous Blackjack variants | ❌ No iOS app |
✅Well-designed user interface |
🛞 Best online casino for roulette – Party Casino
UKGC license number: 54743
- Sun Factor rank: 4.3 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: £10 casino welcome bonus when you play £10
- Wagering requirement: 10x
- Casino games: 1,700+
- Minimum deposit: £5 (£10 for the welcome offer)
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Neteller, Skrill, PayPal, PaysafeCard, Trustly, Luxon, Interac, Aircash
- Payout time: Most within 24 hours, bank transfers up to 5 business days
- Customer support: FAQ, email, phone, live chat
With a history dating to 1997, Party Casino is one of the oldest online casinos still operating in the UK. It’s also one of the world’s best online roulette sites, featuring dozens of variants, numerous live dealer options, and, of course, site-exclusive options.
From classic roulette games like American, European French Roulette to modern variants such as Hotspot and Immersive Roulette, crossovers like Mega Fireblaze, regional adaptations like Greek Roulette, and even celebrity-cameo options such as Frankie Dettori’s Jackpot Roulette, players are spoiled for choice here, even without making use of the excellent live dealer tables.
Both RNG and live dealer tables feature a large variety of bet options, catering to both low and high rollers, and ranging anywhere from £0.20 to over £2,000 per wager. Better still, the underlying software is excellent, with Pragmatic Play’s live roulette titles ensuring smooth gameplay and clear HD graphics.
Finally, the casino often features time-limited promotions for roulette games, offering free chips for friend referrals or new sign-ups.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Over 90 roulette games to try out | ❌ Not all games visible in the roulette menu |
✅ Low minimum bet tables | ❌ New player offer is rather underwhelming |
✅ Several exclusive roulette tables |
♦️ Best online casino for poker – GG Poker
UKGC license number: 47768
- Sun Factor rank: 4.47 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 50 free spins + 100% matched deposit up to $600
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: Poker variants only
- Minimum deposit: $10
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, LuxonPay, MuchBetter
- Payout time: 24-72 hours
- Customer support: email, live chat
One of the world’s most prominent online poker rooms, GGPoker offers tons of poker variants, richly rewarded tournaments and an excellent loyalty programme called Fish Buffet Rewards for the most dedicated players.
In addition to traditional poker games such as Texas Hold ‘Em and Omaha, there is a large variety of in-house variations to both games and tournament structures called GGPoker Originals. These include All-In Or Fold, Mystery Battle Royale, Rush & Cash, Flip & Go and more. There are also daily promotions, unique options for match or hand insurance, and even a robust system tracking all of your matches so you can go back and analyse them at your own leisure.
Finally, GGPoker offers a wealth of game rooms and tournaments, ranging from the official collaboration with the World Series of Poker, offering players a chance to play in various WSOP events, to site specials such as GGMillion$ and GGMasters. There’s even an option to buy & sell player stakes in tournaments, and make bets and prop bets even when not playing.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Unmatched variety of poker games | ❌ The casino operates in USD only |
✅ Tournament staking & prop bets | ❌ Low monthly deposit limit |
✅ Up to 60% cashback via loyalty rewards |
📲 Best online casino for pay by mobile – HotStreak
UKGC license number: 57869
- Sun Factor rank: 4.29 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 100 Free Spins on Big Bass Splash
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: 600+
- Minimum deposit: £10 (£20 for the welcome bonus)
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maelstro, Pay by Mobile, Google Pay, MuchBetter, PayPal, Trustly
- Payout time: 24 hours to 5 business days
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone
If you’re looking for the best pay-by-mobile casino in the UK, HotStreak is our recommendation. Although only around since 2022, the site has established itself as one of the top options for mobile play, with excellent iOS and Android apps and lightning-quick and secure mobile payments.
Pay by Mobile deposits through your debit card are almost instant, and there are no bonus charges. Furthermore, you can withdraw up to £10,000 in a single transaction. That said, if you’re planning to deposit or withdraw less than £30 at any time (min. deposit is £10), you’ll need to pay a £1.50 processing fee.
In terms of game selection, HotStreak offers a small but well-curated collection, including some fan-favourites such as the Big Bass games and high RTP slots like the John Hunter series. In total, there are over 600 games on offer, most from popular industry names like Pragmatic Play, with a small selection of table and live casino games to spice things up.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Lightning-fast deposits | ❌ Slow withdrawals through most methods |
✅ Up to £10,000 per withdrawal | ❌ Limited selection of live casino games |
✅ Well-designed mobile apps |
⚡ Best online casino for fast withdrawals – Duelz
UKGC license number: 48695
- Sun Factor rank: 4.38 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: 100% bonus up to £100 + 100 Free Spins on Book of Dead
- Wagering requirement: 30x
- Casino games: 1,000+
- Minimum deposit: £10 (£20 for the welcome offer & e-wallets)
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maelstro, Trustly, Pay by Mobile, bank transfers, PaysafeCard, Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz, PayPal
- Payout time: Most methods are instant, bank transfers take up to 4 business days
- Customer support: FAQ, email, live chat
Duelz is a unique site well worth your time, especially if you’re looking for fast withdrawal casinos in the UK. With a massive variety of payment methods (from popular e-wallets and prepaid cards to modern banking solutions like Trustly), Duelz boasts some of the fastest payout times on the market, sometimes taking mere minutes.
Furthermore, it offers a unique approach to slot games and loyalty programmes. Instead of a traditional VIP ladder with levels that unlock new bonuses, players instead take on each other in multiplayer duels.
These duels are done through elimination-based Duelz Cash Tournaments that offer almost £10,000 in cash prizes every week, run every 15 minutes, and are completely free to enter. You win by beating your opponents’ results at the chosen slot game, which moves you to the next round.
Other promotions at Duelz include 10% cash back every Friday, access to a Pragmatic Play Drops & Wins tournament with up to £2,000,000 in cash rewards, and the Mega Moolah Jackpot.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Very quick deposits & withdrawals | ❌ Higher min. deposit on e-wallets |
✅ Unique slot duels vs other players | ❌ No loyalty programme |
✅ Cashback Fridays |
💫 Best online casino for free spins – MrQ
UKGC license number: 60629
- Sun Factor rank: 4.27 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: Get up to 200 Cash Spins
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: 1000+
- Minimum deposit: £10
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfers, PayPal, Pay by Mobile
- Payout time: Between 4 hours and 5 business days, depending on the method
- Customer support: FAQ, email, live chat
No-wagering free spins are the rarest of sights at most online casinos, so imagine our delight at discovering a casino that offers them on a regular basis. From the generous welcome offer to friend referral schemes, MrQ provides multiple ways to enjoy wager-free spins, but the most impressive one is tied to the casino’s welcome offer.
New players need to deposit at least £10 and use the code POTS200 to get started. The free spins are handed out for Fishin’ BIGGER Pots of Gold in batches of 50 over four days, and you’ll need £10 to participate in each round. The stake is fixed at 10p, and you’ll have 12 hours to qualify for the free spins and 48 hours to use them.
Instead of a traditional loyalty programme, MrQ offers free spins and Drops & Wins tournaments. You can get more wager-free spins through referring friends to the site, verifying your mobile number, or through the Daily Roulette Drop promotion, while Pragmatic Play ensures daily and weekly prize draws.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Wager-free welcome bonus | ❌ Short period for using free spins |
✅ Many ways to get more free spins | ❌ 10p stake on welcome offer free bets |
✅ Excellent FAQ section |
🤑 Best online casino for no deposit bonus – PokerStars
UKGC license number: 39108
- Sun Factor rank: 4.39 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: Get 50 Free Spins – No Deposit
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: 1,400+
- Minimum deposit: £10
- Payment methods:
- Payout time: E-wallets take minutes, bank transfers up to 10 business days
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email
Whether you’re a poker fan or just love a good no deposit bonus, PokerStars is a site worth checking out. Over the past two decades, the site has not only become one of the world’s premier online poker destinations, but a great place to play any table or live casino game, and even try your hand at slots or sports betting.
The site features nearly 1,500 slot and table games, including over 20 poker variants. Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi/Lo, Seven Card Stud, Razz, you name it – PokerStars has it. You can test your skills in more than 15 tournaments, including annual heavy-hitters like the WCOOP or get poker training from professional players.
Better still, the site constantly runs worthwhile promotions, from offering 50 free spins with no wagering requirements to new players to weekly poker and slot events with valuable rewards. There’s even a PokerStars Rewards loyalty programme that can get players between 15% and 60% of their rake and tournament fees back just for playing poker regularly.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ No wagering or limits on FS winnings | ❌ Welcome offer free spins expire in 3 days |
✅ Massive variety of poker & table games | ❌ Customer support could be better |
✅15+ ongoing poker tournaments |
🤳 Best mobile casino app – Betway
UKGC license number: 39372
- Sun Factor rank: 4.62 ⭐
- Welcome bonus: Stake £10 & get 150 Free Spins
- Wagering requirement: none
- Casino games: 800+
- Minimum deposit: £10
- Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfers (several methods incl. Trustly), PayPal
- Payout time: 2 hours for PayPal, up to 7 business days for bank transfers
- Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email
Betway is a household name worldwide. Though perhaps better-known for its sportsbook offering in the UK, its casino features over 800 quality games, including more than 600 slots from the top industry providers. It also has some of the best casino apps in the business.
Betway’s mobile app blends the site’s sportsbook and casino offering and is packed with features. Available on both Apple and Google devices, it gives full access to everything the site has to offer and is optimised perfectly for smaller mobile screens.
The app is not only highly intuitive to navigate but also very well optimised, ensuring seamless video streaming. It also uses push notifications for new titles or promotions, making it even easier to keep informed about the latest news than on the desktop.
Betway offers players unique versions of popular slot and table games such as Gates of Betway and Betway Roulette. Finally, Flexi Bonuses let them forfeit their bonus balance and withdraw their cash balance anytime, even without meeting the wagering requirements.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✅ Handy push notifications on mobile | ❌ No loyalty programme |
✅ Exclusive Betway slot & live dealer games | ❌ No mobile-exclusive promotions |
✅ Flexi Bonuses can ignore wagering reqs |
🔎 Top 20 casinos in the UK compared
Here’s a quick comparison between our top 20 casinos in the UK in October 2025.
Casino site | Bonus | Free spins | Wagering Requirement | Payment methods |
---|---|---|---|---|
Casumo | 100% up to £100 + 50 Bonus Spins | 50 | 30x | Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, bank transfer, Interac, Skrill, Rapid Transfer, Neteller, MuchBetter, Neosurf, Trustly, eZeeWallet |
Casushi | 100% Welcome Bonus up to £50+ 20 Free Spins | 20 | 35x | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, PaysafeCard, Trustly |
BetMGM | Exclusive Casino Offer! Up to £200 Extra & 100 Free Spins | 100 | 30x | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple Pay, PayPal, Trustly, PaysafeCard, Skrill, Instant Banking |
Lottomart | £200 Bonus 100% Deposit Match + 100 Free Spins | 100 | 50x | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfer |
bet365 | Get up to 500 Free Spins in total! 10 Days of Free Spins | 500 | none | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Trustly, PaysafeCard |
MrLuck Casino | 100% up to £77 PLUS 77 Extra Spins | 77 | 35x | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Apple Pay, bank transfer |
Peachy Games Casino | 100% welcome bonus up to £50+ 20 Bonus spins on Big Bass Splash | 20 | 35x (none for the free spins) | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Skrill, PaysafeCard, Neteller, Trustly |
Mr Vegas | 100% up to £200 plus 11 wager-free spins | 11 | 35x (none for the free spins) | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller, MuchBetter, AstroPay Card, MiFinity, Neosurf, PaysafeCard, PayForIt, Payz, PayPal |
NetBet Casino | Get 100 Free Spins When You Bet £10 | 100 | none | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, PaysafeCard, Google Pay, Payz, Trustly |
VideoSlots | 100% Welcome Bonus up to £200 & 11 Wager-Free Spins | 11 | none | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, PaysafeCard, Google Pay, Payz, Trustly |
PokerStars Casino | Get 50 Free Spins – No Deposit | 50 | none | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller, MuchBetter, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PaysafeCard, Neosurf, Luxon Pay |
Duelz Casino | 100% bonus up to £100 + 100 Free Spins on Book of Dead | 100 | 30x | Visa, Mastercard, Maelstro, Trustly, Pay by Mobile, bank transfer, PaysafeCard, Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz, PayPal |
Virgin Games | Get 100 Free Spins When You Play £10 | 100 | none | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
MrBen | Up to £300 Bonus + 100 Bonus Spins + 500 Loyalty Points | 100 | 40x | Visa, Mastercard, PaysafeCard, Skrill, Neteller, bank transfer |
MrRun | Up to £300 Bonus 100 Bonus Spins plus 500 Loyalty Points | 100 | 40x | Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, PaysafeCard, bank transfer |
All British Casino | 100% up to £100 + Always 10% Cashback! | none | 35x | Visa, MasterCard, Neteller, Skrill, Apple Pay, Trustly, PayPal |
Grosvenor Casino | Get 100 Free SpinsPlus a £30 BonusWhen You Deposit £20 | 100 | 30x (1x on free spins) | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, PaysafeCard, Google Pay, Payz, Trustly |
HotStreak | 100 Free Spins on Big Bass Splash | 100 | none | Visa, Mastercard, Maelstro, Pay by Mobile, Google Pay, MuchBetter, PayPal, Trustly |
MrQ Casino | Get up to 200 Cash Spins | 200 | none | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfers, PayPal, Pay by Mobile |
GGPoker | Get a 100% Matched Deposit Up to $600 When You First Deposit | none | none | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, LuxonPay, MuchBetter |
Wagering requirement at UK casinos: Explained
A wagering requirement represents the number of times you must bet your bonus (and sometimes your deposit) before you can withdraw any winnings from a casino bonus. For example, if you receive a £100 deposit match bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you’ll need to wager £3,000 in total before cashing out.
In the UK casino market, the average wagering requirement typically ranges between 30x and 35x, although it can vary depending on the promotion and the casino’s specific terms and conditions. Some platforms apply the condition to bonus funds only, while others impose it on deposit + bonus, which significantly increases the total amount you’ll need to play through.
Recently, no-wagering bonuses have become increasingly popular in the UK. These offers let you keep what you win, without having to meet playthrough requirements, making them much easier to deal with. That said, casinos and bookies will often impose other limits on such offers, typically capping the maximum winnings or bet amounts.
If you do run into an offer that needs to be wagered, our Wagering Calculator can help you quickly determine how much needs to be wagered before making a withdrawal. Simply input your bonus amount, wagering multiplier, and whether it applies to the bonus only or the deposit and bonus amount combined.
🧑🔬 How we rank and review top online gambling sites according to the Sun Factor
Choosing the best online casinos is about more than just a great game and bonus selection. The top contenders in the industry need to provide an all-around exceptional user experience, from the site and app design to safety & privacy features, all the way to excellent customer support.
That’s why we created a rigorous evaluation system known as The Sun Factor. This in-house methodology allows us to objectively assess every UK casino site we review and assign relevant ratings, ensuring that only the most reputable and well-rounded platforms make our lists. We break down every key element that matters to players, from safety and licensing to supported payment methods, game and bonus variety, and finally, customer support.
With that information on hand, we give our readers all the knowledge they need to self-evaluate casinos and find ones that match their specific preferences. It’s still essential as a player to determine what your particular needs from a casino are, as not every operator will excel at everything.
Casino licensing and security
The first thing we look for in any online casino is a valid licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This ensures the casino is legally allowed to operate in the UK and is held to high standards of fairness, player protection, and transparency.
We also assess whether the site uses advanced SSL encryption technology to keep players’ personal data and payment information secure. If an online casino doesn’t meet even these essential safety criteria, it doesn’t make it past the first cut.
When a casino is certified by independent testing agencies such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or GLI, it means its games and RNG systems have been independently verified for fairness and proper operation. These agencies test things like payout percentages, random number generation, and overall game integrity, giving players confidence that the game outcomes they see are truly randomised and no games have been unfairly tampered with.
Additionally, before recommending any casino, we verify its license directly with the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). We cross-check the UKGC license number, ensure it matches the operator’s listed credentials, and review whether there are any ongoing or past regulatory actions or warnings against the casino. This thorough process ensures we only feature casinos that are fully licensed, transparent, and compliant with the UK gambling laws and standards.
Adherence to responsible gaming standards
Responsible gambling is another non-negotiable aspect of our rating system. The best UK casino sites must offer effective tools to help players stay in control of their gaming habits. This includes the ability to set deposit limits, self-exclusion options for players who know they might struggle to stay away, and easily reachable links to support organisations like GamCare or BeGambleAware.
We also assess how proactively the platform promotes responsible gaming, whether through on-site messaging or having dedicated support teams trained to handle problem gambling issues.
Payment methods and transaction processing
A top-rated online casino needs to offer fast, secure, and flexible banking options. We evaluate whether players can use a range of trusted payment methods, including debit cards, bank transfers, popular e-wallets like PayPal, mobile favourites such as Apple and Google Pay, and even prepaid payment cards such as PaysafeCard.
We also test how quickly the casino processes deposits and especially withdrawals – no one wants to wait days or weeks for their winnings to clear.
The main online casino deposit and withdrawal methods to look out for are:
Payment Method | Deposits | Withdrawals | Average Withdrawal Time | Best Feature |
Debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) | Yes | Yes | 3-5 Days | Used daily by the majority of people for offline and online transactions. |
eWallets (PayPal, Neteller, Skrill) | Yes | Yes | 1-3 Days | Designed for online transactions, so withdrawals are processed quickly. |
Mobile payments (Apple Pay and Google Pay) | Yes | Yes (not available at some online gambling sites) | 1-2 Days | An efficient way to make mobile casino payments without switching to a desktop device or between apps. |
Pay by phone | Yes | No | N/A | Charge deposits to your phone bill so you don’t have to provide any bank details. |
Prepaid cards (PaysafeCard) | Yes | No | N/A | Purchase vouchers online or with cash at affiliated shops. |
Casino games
A strong game library is central to a quality online casino experience. We examine both the variety and the quality of games on offer, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and any site-exclusive titles. Does the site have software partnerships with respected providers like NetEnt, Playtech, and Evolution, or is it focused on less-known providers or even its own unique titles?
While we’re always happy to see new and unexpected games on sites we review, sticking to the classics has one big advantage: proven quality. That means top-tier graphics, smooth performance, typically good RTP percentages, and the use of an independently audited Random Number Generator ensuring game fairness.
Welcome offers and ongoing promotions
Let’s face it: the quality of the bonuses offered to both new and existing players is often what makes or breaks an online casino. We dig deep into the terms and conditions of each bonus, looking at wagering requirements, expiry dates, game restrictions, and payout caps. Transparency is key here; we only recommend offers that give players genuine value without hidden catches or small font “a-ha” moments.
In addition to welcome offers, we also evaluate the generosity and frequency of ongoing promotions. A great online casino keeps rewarding loyal players long after they’ve used up the offer(s) that got them playing on the site in the first place. This includes reload bonuses, free spins, cashback deals, VIP programs, special tournament invites, and seasonal campaigns. Platforms that go the extra mile to engage and retain their player base always get extra points in our book.
The best UK casino bonus offers with fair wagering requirements are:
- Matched deposits – these offers give you bonus credit equal to the amount you deposit, e.g. if you deposit £50, you’ll receive a £50 bonus.
- No deposit bonuses – the opposite of a deposit bonus is a no deposit bonus. Rewards are released when you perform an action that isn’t a deposit, such as completing the registration process.
- Reload bonuses – first deposit bonuses are also known as welcome bonuses because they’re for new customers. Reload bonuses are for existing customers because you’re reloading your account.
- Bonus free spins – you can play some of the top online slots, such as Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest, without spending a penny by using bonus spins.
- Cashback – losses won’t sting as much with cashback bonuses because you receive rebates when luck isn’t on your side.
- No wagering free spins – some casinos will not impose a wagering requirement on your free spins winnings. Those bonuses are quite popular among players, and more commonly offered nowadays.
Mobile experience
Today, the best mobile casinos are fully-stocked native apps for iOS and Android devices.
What’s neat about the top mobile casino apps is the fact that they contain features their desktop counterparts don’t have. For example, if you download the MrQ Casino iOS app, you’ll be able to swap your alphanumeric password for Face ID logins.
In addition to enhanced security, mobile casino apps can link directly to banking apps. This facilitates seamless transactions.
If an online casino operator doesn’t offer a mobile app, don’t worry; mobile casino sites are just as slick as their app-based counterparts. What’s more, you can create a shortcut to the mobile site on your mobile’s home screen, which makes it as accessible as an app.
Customer support
Responsive, professional customer support can make or break a player’s experience on the site. We test each casino’s support channels, including live chat, email, and even phone options when available.
We evaluated everything from general availability and response speed to the general helpfulness of the agents.
The best UK casinos out there not only offer 24/7 assistance but also provide comprehensive help sections and clear FAQs. These allow players to find out the info they need or troubleshoot a problem by themselves if they prefer.
We like to put them to the test by contacting the support team at both standard and unusual times via live chat or email. This lets us test the quality of the support given and the speed of the response, regardless of whether it’s rush hour or not.
The ‘Why’ behind the Sun Factor
Although we’re all human and passionate casino players ourselves, the Sun Factor isn’t based on personal opinions or gut feelings. It’s an average of measurable, objective factors that determine a casino’s overall quality, from its licensing and reputation to game selection, bonuses, and more.
In short, every rating is earned through transparent, evidence-based assessment, and the final result is a balanced reflection of how well each casino performs across all key areas that matter to players.
📋 How to create an account at an online casino
Signing up at a UK online casino is usually a quick and straightforward process, especially when registering with a licensed and reputable site, as you always should. That said, sometimes you can miss an important step or two and miss out on a key promotion, so here’s a short guide on how to ensure you’ll get everything right. Do note that these are general instructions, and some specifics, such as what the “sign up” button is called, may vary from site to site.
- Choose a licensed UK casino site – Start by picking a site regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. You can find our top-rated choices listed above to ensure you’re signing up for the best online casinos in the UK.
- Click on the “Sign Up” or “Join Now” button – Usually found at the top right or left of the homepage, this will take you to the new user registration form.
- Enter your personal details – You’ll need to provide your full name, date of birth, address, email, and phone number to comply with UKGC regulations, so expect to fill this info out on every UK-focused gambling site you sign up for.
- Create a username and password – Choose secure login credentials you’ll remember, and agree to the site’s terms and conditions. Remember not to use the same password twice, and especially try to avoid using the same or similar credentials on gambling sites that you’d use for other activities, such as your online banking account.
- Verify your identity – Most casinos will ask for photo ID and proof of address (such as a utility bill) to confirm your identity. This is part of mandatory KYC (Know Your Customer) checks and helps both you and the casino stay safe from bad actors and scammers.
- Opt in for the promotion and enter a bonus code (optional) – Casinos often have time-limited promotional offers that you can take advantage of by opting in and optionally entering a bonus code during the registration process. In some cases, simply registering an account and making your first deposit will be enough, but sometimes you’ll have to actively opt in and/or enter a promo code.
- Make your first deposit – Head to the cashier or banking section, choose a payment method, and fund your account. Make sure to read the promotion terms so you’re using only eligible payment methods here (e-wallets are often excluded) and your deposit is large enough to meet the requirements (typically £10 or more).
- Start playing – Once your account is verified and funded, you’re ready to start playing. If you’re trying to fulfil the conditions to get the bonus funds or free spins as part of the welcome offer, now is a good time to get familiar with the eligible games and any other terms & conditions you’ll need to fulfil. These can include potential time constraints or wagering requirements needed to unlock your bonuses.
🏆 Award-winning UK casino sites
Like any other thriving industry, gambling has its own awards ceremonies. There are a variety of respected organisations dedicated to naming the top online gambling operators.
By way of patting ourselves on the back for spotting quality, we’re proud to say that most of our partner casinos have won awards. Here are a few of the accolades our recommended casinos have won in recent years:
- Online Casino of the Year 2024 – LeoVegas (Global Gaming Awards)
- Digital Operator of the Year 2023 – BetMGM (Global Gaming Awards)
- Rising Star of the Year 2024 – Mr Vegas (International Gaming Awards)
- Best Customer Service Company of the year 2023 – Casumo (International Gaming Awards)
- Mobile Operator of the Year 2023 – LeoVegas (International Gaming Awards)
- Online Casino Operator of the Year 2023 – VideoSlots (International Gaming Awards)
- Casino Operator of the Year 2024 (Bronze) – LeoVegas (EGR Operator Awards)
- Poker Operator of the Year 2023 – PokerStars (EGR Operator Awards)
Online casino operators can’t do everything on their own. Even though companies such as Party Casino make their own games, they don’t have the resources to launch new products on a weekly basis. That’s why they partner with independent software providers.
The best online casino software providers, as voted for by industry experts, work with our partner platforms, including Duelz, MrQ, and Virgin Games. Some of the notable winners are:
- Online Casino Supplier of the Year 2024 – Pragmatic Play (Global Gaming Awards)
- Online Slot of the Year 2024 – Money Train 4 by Relax Gaming (Global Gaming Awards)
- Best Provider of the Year 2023 – Pragmatic Play (AskGamblers Awards)
- Live Casino of the Year 2024 – Pragmatic Play (International Gaming Awards)
- Innovator of the Year 2023 – Yggdrasil (International Gaming Awards)
⚠️ Casinos to avoid: Red flags to keep aware of
Not all operators are worth your time and money. Here’s a list of the most serious red flags you can run into at online casinos, so you know what to look for and how to avoid them.
🚩 Zero trust, licensing failures, and non-Gamstop casinos
The absence of a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence is the biggest red flag you can run in the UK gambling world. Any casino operating without one or under a license that has been revoked is doing so illegally, putting player safety at risk. The Gambling Commission is the ultimate authority on online gambling in the UK, and has the means to enforce rules that casinos must abide by and punish those that do not.
This ensures that every casino under UKGC’s jurisdiction has to put player safety and privacy first. As such, they cannot get away with having unfair or unclear promotion terms, an unsecured website or payment processing platform, and they certainly cannot deny players their rightfully earned payouts or withhold their funds without a very good reason.
Another clear warning sign is when a site isn’t part of the GAMSTOP self-exclusion scheme, which all legitimate UK-licensed casinos must join. GAMSTOP offers an independent self-exclusion scheme for players who feel like they need help with a gambling addiction, and any site that doesn’t work with them shows a critical lack of concern for their players.
Without willing collaboration with the UKGC and GAMSTOP, sites fall into the zero-trust category and offer no guaranteed safeguards for your private data, deposits, or winnings. They do not care about responsible gambling practices, and should be avoided entirely by anyone seeking a safe and transparent online casino.
🚩 The payout obstacle course
As you might imagine, one of the most common problems players face with untrustworthy casinos is rather simple – not getting paid. These sites will make depositing money effortless, often offering incredibly tempting deposit match bonuses, but then turn withdrawals into a maze of excuses and delays.
The UK gambling world has seen hundreds of complaints from players left waiting weeks or even months for payouts that should take no more than two business days. In some cases, withdrawal requests are stalled with endless “verification” demands or vague terms designed to wear players down until they give up.
A major red flag is when a casino enforces predatory withdrawal limits, allowing players to cash out only tiny amounts each week. For big winners (especially those lucky enough to land jackpot games or large prize pool payouts), this can mean waiting years to receive their full balance.
Some even go further, inserting fine print that allows them to void large progressive wins, an unacceptable practice that violates the spirit of fair play.
Legitimate UKGC-licensed casinos, by contrast, must process withdrawals promptly and transparently, ensuring everyone, from newcomers to high-stakes bettors, gets their rightful winnings without obstruction. If a site’s payout process feels more like an obstacle course than a transaction, it’s a sure sign it’s operating outside proper oversight and should be avoided.
🚩 Rigged games and uncertified software
In a fair and regulated gaming market, every spin or deal should rely on a verified Random Number Generator (RNG) that guarantees true randomness. Unlicensed or dishonest sites often use counterfeit games with rigged odds and a much lower Return-to-Player (RTP) than advertised, or they don’t even bother showing RTP percentages.
A major warning sign is a game lobby without titles from trusted developers like NetEnt, Playtech, or Microgaming. The absence of an auditing seal from agencies such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs is another indicator that games haven’t been independently tested for fairness.
Without these checks, players have no assurance that their results are genuine. Licensed casinos proudly display these seals. It is proof that their RNGs, payouts, and rules are transparent and fair for everyone.
🚩 Toxic bonus terms
Last but certainly not least, we come to the subject of bonus terms, often used by shady casinos to lure players in. If bonuses appear too good to be true, it’s probably because they are, and you should look for the fine print that makes them difficult or impossible to accomplish.
High wagering requirements are a common tactic, often set far above the industry average of 35x the bonus amount. Sometimes players must gamble their winnings 50 or 60 times before withdrawing them, at which point retaining them becomes all but impossible.
Low maximum win or bet caps are another warning sign. For example, a bonus might limit your individual spin or overall win amount, effectively neutering your chances for genuinely big wins. Bear in mind that even legitimate and licensed casinos will sometimes do this with no deposit free spins and similar offers, which would otherwise bankrupt them quickly.
Key features for responsible gambling on UK casino sites
Responsible gambling (RG) practices are a cornerstone of the UK’s online casino industry, ensuring that gaming remains a safe, fair, and enjoyable form of entertainment rather than a source of harm.
All UK casinos that wish to operate legally must implement comprehensive RG tools and policies as a matter of legal compliance. These measures work collectively to protect players, increase accessibility, promote transparency, and build trust within an often hectic but still highly regulated market.
1. The Role of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the chief regulatory body that ensures all gambling in the UK is conducted safely, fairly, and transparently. Its primary role is to enforce responsible gambling as a legal obligation, not a voluntary practice.
Holding a UKGC license means operators must continually meet strict compliance standards by providing readily accessible responsible gambling and player protection tools, which we’ll detail below.
Compliance isn’t a one-off requirement but an ongoing duty tied directly to the casino’s right to operate. Should a casino fail to meet these obligations, the UKGC can impose heavy fines, suspend, or permanently revoke its license.
2. Mandatory player protection tools
In order to keep their UKGC license and offer players a safe space for online gambling, online casinos must provide them with the following tools:
- Deposit limit – Allow players to set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much money they can deposit, helping manage spending and prevent impulsive gambling behaviour.
- Time-out / Cool-off period – Enables players to take short breaks from gambling, usually ranging from 24 hours to several weeks, giving them space to regain control and perspective.
- Reality check – Sends on-screen reminders at set intervals showing how long the player has been active and how much they’ve spent or won, encouraging awareness and attempting to prevent or destructive behaviours like chasing losses.
- Self-exclusion – A long-term measure that lets players voluntarily block access to all gambling accounts for a chosen duration (at least six months) or indefinitely, supported by tools like GAMSTOP for cross-operator exclusion.
3. Cross-operator self-exclusion: GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP is a free, nationwide self-exclusion service that enables players to block access to all online gambling sites and apps licensed in Great Britain with a single registration. Once enrolled, users are automatically prevented from creating or accessing accounts across every UKGC-licensed operator during their chosen exclusion period.
Participation in GAMSTOP isn’t optional for casinos that want to operate above board, but instead a mandatory requirement under UKGC regulations. Every licensed operator must be fully integrated into the system, ensuring that self-exclusion applies consistently across the entire industry.
4. Direct support and access
A core element of responsible gambling in the UK is ensuring players have immediate access to professional help and support. Licensed operators are required to feature clear links and logos for organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware on every page, and ideally a dedicated Responsible Gambling section with all the tools players will need.
In addition, casino staff receive mandatory training to recognise early signs of problem gambling. Customer support teams are taught how to handle sensitive conversations, refer players to appropriate support services, and implement self-exclusion measures when needed.
👉 Why trust our casino reviews?
Here at the Sun, our writers are not only experienced at their job but also passionate players and punters themselves. Each site we recommend is rigorously tested using our detailed Sun Factor methodology, a structured evaluation system that focuses on key areas like licensing, security, game variety, user experience, and customer support. We aim to provide our readers with honest, clear insights to help them choose only the best online casinos the UK has to offer.
🧑⚖️ The Sun’s verdict on the best online casinos in the UK
Even as it steadily grows, the UK’s online casino market is subtly changing under greater regulatory pressure and higher consumer expectations.
According to the UK Gambling Commission’s operator data, online Gross Gambling Yield (GGY) in Q1 of 2025 (April–June) reached £1.49 billion, up 2% year-on-year, while total bets and spins climbed 6% to 26.1 billion.
Interestingly, while the total number of active accounts fell roughly 10% to 12.7 million, slots GGY jumped 14%, and session numbers rose even as fewer players were active overall. This suggests that a more engaged minority of players is driving much of the volume.
At the same time, long sessions (over an hour) declined, and average session length decreased, which may point to regulatory tools like reality checks and session limits doing their job.
In short, the best online casinos in the UK nowadays compete not just on games or bonuses, but on safety, compliance, and trust. Operators that prioritise slot games, offer robust responsible gambling tools, and work with agencies like GAMSTOP are uniquely positioned to dominate the market.
FAQ about casino sites in the UK
We get it – navigating online casinos can be a bit of a maze, especially if you’re new to the online gambling scene, and new casino sites are constantly popping up. That’s why we’ve rounded up answers to the questions we hear most often from our readers. Think of it as your no-nonsense guide to the stuff you actually want to know.
1. Are casino sites legal in the UK?
Online casino gambling is legal in the UK as long as the platform in question is licensed by the Gambling Commission. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the official governing body of all gambling matters. From horse racing and poker to sports betting and casino games, the UKGC ensures the regulations, as defined by UK gambling law, are upheld by its licences. Therefore, as long as you use a UKGC-licensed online casino, such as Virgin Games, you can be confident it’s legal and safe.
2. Can I use my credit card to play at an online casino?
No, online gambling operators haven’t been able to accept credit card deposits since 2020. The ban on credit card transactions was part of the government’s safer gambling reforms. Banning credit card deposits is designed to reduce the risk of people gambling with borrowed money. Debit card payments are still accepted at the best online casino sites, as are eWallets transactions from processors such as PayPal and Skrill.
3. What wagering requirements to expect at the best online casinos?
The top casino bonuses have a wagering requirement (aka playthrough target) of 35x or lower. You’d need to bet £350 to clear a £10 bonus with a 35x wagering requirement. Clearing a bonus means you’ve converted it from site credit to cash that can be withdrawn. Any online casino bonus with a playthrough of 35x or lower is almost always claiming if you can do it responsibly.
4. What online casino has the fastest payouts?
Duelz and Hot Streak Slots are two of the fastest payout online casinos in the UK. These popular online casinos typically process withdrawals within 1-2 days. The average payout time for UK online gambling sites is 3-5 days. Therefore, if you want your winnings in less time, it’s worth checking out Duelz and Hot Streak.
5. What does RTP mean and why is it important?
RTP stands for Return to Player. It’s a percentage that represents the average amount of money a specific game is expected to pay back to players over millions of spins or hands. For example, a slot with a 96% RTP will theoretically return £96 for every £100 wagered in the long run. It’s a crucial indicator of a game’s fairness and potential long-term performance, with higher RTPs generally being more favourable for the player.
6. Are online casino games rigged?
No, games at casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission are not rigged. These sites are legally required to use a Random Number Generator (RNG), which is a complex algorithm that ensures every outcome—whether it’s a card dealt in blackjack or a spin on a slot machine—is completely random and unpredictable. Furthermore, independent auditing agencies like eCOGRA regularly test the games to certify their fairness.
7. Is it safe to provide my personal ID to an online casino?
Yes, it is very safe as long as you are using a UKGC-licensed casino. This process, known as KYC (Know Your Customer), is a legal requirement to prevent underage gambling, fraud, and money laundering. Licensed casinos use advanced SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect your personal data, ensuring it is handled with the same level of security as a major financial institution.
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About the author

James Anderson
James Anderson is a Betting & Gaming Writer at The Sun. He is an expert in sports betting and online casinos, and joined the company in November 2020 to work closely with leading bookmakers, casinos, and online gaming companies to curate content in all areas of iGaming and sports betting. He previously worked as a Digital Sports Reporter and Head of Live Blogs/Events at the Daily Express and Daily Star, covering football, cricket, snooker, F1 and horse racing.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – gamcare.org.uk
- GambleAware – GambleAware.org
Read our guide on responsible gambling practices.
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.