The Best Poker Sites in the UK in 2024

The UK boasts a thriving online poker scene, with the best poker sites catering to every type of player. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, you’ll find top-notch platforms offering exciting games, generous bonuses, and a safe, regulated environment. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the best online poker UK players can enjoy.

Top Poker Sites UK at a Glance

The UK boasts a vibrant online poker scene, with a variety of sites catering to all types of players. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, there’s a perfect fit for you. Here’s a quick look at our top picks:

1. Coin Poker: Best for cryptocurrency users and our top poker site overall.
2. bet365 Poker: A solid all-rounder with a great reputation.
3. GGPoker: Home to the biggest tournaments and guaranteed prize pools.
4. Betfred Poker: Excellent for casual players and beginners.
5. Partypoker: Known for its generous promotions and loyalty programme.
6. 888poker: A user-friendly site with a wide variety of games and stakes.

Six Poker Sites UK Players Love – In Detail

To make your decision even easier, let’s dive deeper into our top picks for the best UK poker sites and why we chose them.

1. Coin Poker – Best for Crypto Poker Players

Coin Poker is a revolutionary platform that brings the world of cryptocurrency and online poker together. Launched in 2017, it’s the first cryptocurrency-based poker room, offering a unique and secure environment for players to enjoy their favourite games using digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether. This makes it a perfect choice for crypto enthusiasts and those seeking greater anonymity and control over their funds. It’s also one of our top online poker sites overall.

Coin Poker offers a variety of popular poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha, and 5-card Omaha. Their focus is primarily on cash games and tournaments, with a range of stakes to suit all bankrolls. One of their standout features is their innovative “Cosmic Spins” tournaments, which offer the chance to multiply your buy-in by up to 1,000x. The platform also boasts a provably fair system, ensuring transparency and randomness in all games. Coin Poker’s software is available on desktop and mobile, with a sleek and modern design that’s easy to navigate. HUDs are not allowed at Coin Poker, meaning casual players have more of a chance to win.

We think Coin Poker is a fantastic option for players seeking a modern and secure online poker experience with the added benefits of cryptocurrency integration. With its innovative features, provably fair system, and generous welcome bonus, Coin Poker is a great choice for both casual players and crypto enthusiasts alike.

Coin Poker Welcome Offer

New players at Coin Poker can take advantage of a generous 150% bonus up to $2,000. To claim the bonus, simply make your first deposit using any accepted cryptocurrencies.

Key Bonus Terms:

• Minimum deposit: $10
• Bonus is released in increments as you generate rake
• 30 days to clear the bonus

2. Bet365 Poker – Best for Casual Poker Players

bet365 is a household name in the UK, synonymous with online gambling. While primarily known for its sportsbook, bet365 also boasts a comprehensive and user-friendly poker platform. It’s an ideal choice for casual players seeking a straightforward and enjoyable poker experience, with a strong emphasis on Texas Hold’em and Omaha cash games.

bet365 utilises the popular iPoker network owned by Playtech, ensuring a large and active player pool across a variety of stakes and game types (500,000 unique monthly players, in fact). While the focus is on cash games, bet365 also offers a decent selection of tournaments, including daily guaranteed events and their signature Twister Sit & Go’s. The software is intuitive and easy to navigate, available for download on desktop or via their mobile app for iOS and Android devices. bet365 also offers a range of helpful features, such as quick seat options, hand replayers, and personalised avatars.

bet365 provides a solid and enjoyable online poker experience, especially for those who prefer cash games. With its easy-to-use software, generous welcome bonus, and access to the iPoker network, bet365 is a great option for casual players looking to get started with online poker.

bet365 Welcome Offer

New poker players at bet365 are greeted with a welcome package that includes a €365 bonus, €1 Twister ticket, and five “€100 Bronze Loyalty” tournament tickets. The bonus is released in increments as you earn Status Points by playing real money games.

Key Bonus Terms:

• €365 bonus is released in €2.50 increments
• Status Points are earned at a rate of 10 for every €1 or £1 paid in rake and/or tournament fees
• Bonus expires after 60 days

3. GGPoker – Best for Tournament Players

GGPoker has rapidly become a dominant force in the online poker world, renowned for its massive tournaments with record-breaking prize pools. As the official sponsor of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) online bracelet events, GGPoker provides a platform for players of all levels to compete for prestigious titles and life-changing sums of money. It’s the go-to site for those seeking the thrill of high-stakes tournament action and the chance to rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in poker, including Daniel Negreanu and Fedor Holz.

Beyond its impressive tournament offerings, GGPoker provides a comprehensive selection of poker variants to cater to diverse preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic Texas Hold’em, pot-limit Omaha, or the fast-paced action of Short Deck, you’ll find ample opportunities to test your skills and challenge yourself against players from around the globe. Whilst lacking support for external HUDs and trackers, GGPoker does have its own SmartHUD to make the most of.

GGPoker also distinguishes itself through its innovative tournament formats, such as the GGMasters with its substantial guarantees, the Bounty Hunters Series where knocking out opponents adds to your winnings, and the highly anticipated WSOP Online series, allowing players to compete for coveted gold bracelets from the comfort of their homes. The site incorporates various unique features, including All-In or Fold for those who like to live on the edge, Straddle for injecting extra excitement pre-flop, and Run It Twice to reduce variance in those crucial all-in situations.

Site Welcome Offer

New players at GGPoker are presented with a choice between two enticing welcome offers designed to boost their bankroll and enhance their initial gaming experience. You can choose between £40 in free play, or a 100% Deposit Match up to $600 (a great option for high rollers). That’s on top of a Honeymoon welcome mission to enjoy, as well as frequent promotions for existing customers you can continue to make the most of.

Key Bonus Terms:

• Bonus code: Not required
• $1 released for every $5 paid in net rake/tournament fees

4. Betfred Poker – Most Trustworthy Poker Site

Betfred is a household name in the UK, known primarily for its high-street bookmakers and comprehensive sports betting offerings. However, the brand also boasts a dedicated online poker platform that provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment, particularly well-suited to casual players and those new to the game. Betfred Poker operates on the iPoker network, which includes access to a decent pool of players, ensuring that you’ll generally find a game running regardless of the time of day.

While not as feature-rich as some of the larger poker sites, Betfred Poker focuses on providing a straightforward and user-friendly experience. It offers a good selection of popular poker variants, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha, with a range of cash games and tournaments to suit different bankrolls and skill levels.

The site also features a variety of promotions, such as daily freerolls and guaranteed tournaments, giving players the chance to boost their bankroll and enjoy added value. Its VIP program is excellent, with 20% or more in rakeback being easy to achieve. Betfred Poker’s software is simple and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and find the games you want to play. The emphasis on ease of use and a less intimidating atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for those who are new to online poker or prefer a more laid-back experience.

Site Welcome Offer

New players at Betfred Poker are welcomed with a generous two-part offer designed to get them started. Simply register an account and you’ll receive £10 in free play to use on any poker game. Then, make your first deposit and Betfred will match it 200% up to £1,500. This bonus is released in increments as you earn loyalty points by playing real money games.

Key Bonus Terms:

• Minimum deposit: £5
• Bonus code: POKERWELCOMEBONUS1500 for deposit match offer
• Wagering requirement: Earn loyalty points to release the bonus
• Validity period: 60 days

5. Partypoker – Best for Promotions and Rewards

Partypoker has been a major player in the online poker world for over two decades, known for its commitment to providing a fair and enjoyable experience for players of all levels. It has undergone significant improvements in recent years, focusing on recreational players and fostering a sense of community. Partypoker is particularly renowned for its generous promotions and rewarding loyalty programme, offering players continuous opportunities to boost their bankroll and enhance their gaming experience.

Partypoker boasts a comprehensive selection of poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, and Omaha Hi-Lo, catering to diverse preferences. The site offers a wide range of cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go’s, with buy-ins to suit all budgets. Partypoker is also home to the popular “Fast Forward” format, a fast-fold variant that allows players to quickly move to a new hand if they fold.

Beyond its core poker offerings, Partypoker distinguishes itself through its commitment to player rewards. The site features a multi-tiered loyalty programme that provides cashback, freerolls, and exclusive tournament tickets based on your activity. Partypoker also runs regular promotions, including reload bonuses, leaderboards, and special events, giving players ample opportunities to increase their winnings and enjoy added value.

Site Welcome Offer

Kickstart your poker journey at PartyPoker with a fantastic welcome package designed to boost your bankroll and give you a taste of the action. Make your first deposit and PartyPoker will match it pound-for-pound, up to a maximum of £400. This effectively doubles your starting capital, giving you extra ammunition to hit the tables.

On top of the generous deposit bonus, you’ll receive £70 worth of free play tickets, credited to your account over your first six days as a PartyPoker player. These tickets can be used to explore a variety of exciting games, including fast-paced SPINS tournaments, multi-table tournaments (MTTs), and cash games.

Key Bonus Terms:

• Minimum deposit: £10
• Bonus code: Not required
• Wagering requirement: Earn points to release the bonus
• Validity period: No expiry (bonus remains active as long as you earn points)

6. 888poker – Best for User-Friendly Experience

888poker is one of the oldest and most established names in the online poker industry, having been around since 1997. It’s known for its user-friendly platform, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players. 888poker prioritises a fun and engaging environment, offering a wide variety of games and stakes to cater to diverse preferences. The site also boasts a strong focus on responsible gaming, providing tools and resources to help players stay in control.

888poker provides a comprehensive selection of poker games, with a primary focus on Texas Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha. The site offers a range of cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go’s, with buy-ins suitable for all budgets. 888poker is particularly well-known for its BLAST poker, a fast-paced Sit & Go format where players compete for a randomly generated prize pool that can multiply up to 10,000 times the buy-in.

The platform also features a variety of unique promotions, such as daily freerolls, guaranteed tournaments, and the 888poker Club, a loyalty programme that rewards players with gold tokens that can be redeemed for cash and prizes. 888poker’s software is designed with user experience in mind, providing a clean and intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate. The platform is available on desktop and mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy their favourite games wherever they are.

Site Welcome Offer

New players at 888poker are greeted with a £50 welcome bonus when using the offer code GET50. This bonus consists of tournament tickets, which will be gradually released over the first six days. It’s a great way to get involved in the action without having to spend a penny.

Key Bonus Terms:

• Minimum deposit: £10
• Bonus code: GET50
• UK new players only
• Tokens expire 24 hours after being granted

Best Poker Sites in the UK Compared

Choosing the right online poker site can be a daunting task, with various factors to consider. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a table comparing the key features of our top-rated UK poker sites.

Best UK Poker Sites by Game Format

Finding the perfect online poker site can be tricky, especially with so many options available. This section breaks down the top UK poker sites based on their strengths in specific game formats, helping you find the ideal platform for your preferred style of play.

Best Poker Sites for Multi-Table Tournaments

Multi-table tournaments (MTTs) are the cornerstone of online poker, offering the thrill of competing against a large field of players for potentially massive prizes. If you’re an MTT enthusiast, these sites are worth checking out:

Best Poker Sites for Satellites to Land-Based Tournaments

Dreaming of playing in a prestigious live poker tournament? These sites offer online satellites that can win you a coveted seat at major events:

Best Poker Sites for Freeroll Tournaments

Freerolls are a fantastic way to build your bankroll without risking your own money. These sites offer a wide variety of freeroll tournaments:

Best Poker Sites for Sit-and-Go Tournaments

Sit & Go tournaments (SNGs) offer a quick and exciting poker experience. These sites excel in their SNG offerings:

Best Poker Sites for Heads-Up Tournaments

Heads-up tournaments pit you against a single opponent in a one-on-one battle of poker skill. These sites are ideal for heads-up enthusiasts:

Best Poker Sites for Cash Games

Cash games offer continuous action and the flexibility to play at your own pace. These sites stand out for their cash game offerings:

How We Rate Online Poker Sites for UK Players

Our ranking of the best online poker sites for UK players is based on a thorough evaluation of key factors that contribute to a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding poker experience. We consider the following criteria when assessing each site:

For a more in-depth look at our method of ranking sites, check out our fully-fledged guide to How We Rank Gambling Sites.

New Poker Sites in the UK

While the online poker landscape in the UK is dominated by established giants, fresh faces do occasionally emerge, shaking things up with innovative features and enticing offers. New poker sites typically launch every few months, aiming to carve out their niche in the competitive market.

Some advantages of trying a new poker site are:

However, it’s important to research any poker sites thoroughly before signing up, ensuring they hold a valid UK Gambling Commission licence and offer reliable customer support.

Some potential drawbacks of new sites can be:

New poker sites can offer a refreshing alternative to established platforms, with potentially lucrative bonuses, softer competition, and innovative features. However, it’s crucial to do your due diligence and choose a reputable and licensed site to ensure a safe and enjoyable poker experience.

Bonuses and Promotions at UK Poker Sites

Like online betting sites, UK poker sites offer a variety of enticing bonuses and promotions to attract new players and reward loyal customers. These offers can significantly boost your bankroll and enhance your overall poker experience. Here’s a breakdown of some common types of bonuses you’ll encounter:

Always remember to check the terms and conditions of any bonus or promotion before participating. Pay attention to wagering requirements, expiry dates, and any game restrictions that may apply.

Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses at the Top Poker Sites in the UK

Take a look at our comparison table below to quickly discover each of our top poker sites’ UK welcome bonuses. These offers are available for poker, giving you the chance to boost your winnings from the get-go.

Today’s Best Welcome Offer at UK Poker Sites

Finding the most generous welcome bonus can give your poker journey a significant boost. Based on our current research, Partypoker offers the most enticing welcome package for UK players.

Once you sign up and make your first deposit of £10 or more, Partypoker will match it by 100%, up to £400. That’s alongside £70 in free play (generated in tournament tickets) that you’ll be able to use on the tables straight away.

It’s a very generous deposit match offer to get the poker action started. That, alongside the £70 in free play given once you’ve made your first deposit, is a fantastic way to get introduced to everything Partypoker has to offer.

What Games Can You Play at UK Poker Sites?

UK poker sites offer a diverse range of poker variants to cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic Texas Hold’em, the strategic depth of Omaha, or the thrill of mixed games, you’ll find ample opportunities to test your skills and enjoy the excitement of online poker.

Best Poker Sites for Texas Hold’em

Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker variant worldwide, and poker online UK sites offer a comprehensive selection of Hold’em games.

Best Poker Sites for Omaha

Omaha is a popular poker variant known for its action-packed gameplay and potential for big pots.

Best Poker Sites for Seven-Card Stud

Seven-card stud is a classic poker variant that requires a different set of skills compared to Hold’em and Omaha.

Best Poker Sites for H.O.R.S.E.

H.O.R.S.E. is a mixed game format that rotates between five poker variants: Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Razz, Seven-card Stud, and Eight-or-Better Stud.

Best Poker Sites for Five-Card Draw

Five-card draw is a classic poker variant that’s less common in online poker rooms.

None of our top six sites consistently offer Five-Card Draw, and it’s becoming less and less popular across all poker sites. Keep an eye out to see if any of our top picks introduce Five-Card Draw as an option soon.

Payment Methods at Online Poker Sites

UK poker sites offer a variety of secure and convenient payment methods to fund your account and withdraw your winnings. Here are some of the most popular options you’ll find:

Remember to check the poker site’s cashier section for the full list of available payment methods and any associated fees or processing times. Consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a payment method, factoring in security, convenience, and speed. Ensure the poker site uses secure encryption technology to protect your financial information.

Traffic on Poker Sites and Why It Matters

In the world of online poker, “traffic” simply means the number of players active on a particular site at any given time. High traffic is ideal for an action-packed and enjoyable poker experience. Here’s why it matters:

UK Online Poker Sites and the Law

Online poker in the UK is a regulated activity, meaning it’s perfectly legal to enjoy as long as you’re playing on sites that follow the rules. These rules are set out in the Gambling Act 2005, which aims to keep online poker fair and safe for everyone.

One of the most important rules is that you must be 18 years old or older to play. This is to protect young people from the potential risks of gambling.

All online poker sites operating in the UK must hold a licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Think of the UKGC as the official referee, making sure everything is above board. They have strict rules for licensed sites, ensuring fair games, secure handling of your money, and measures in place to promote responsible gambling.

Playing at UKGC-licensed sites gives you peace of mind. You know the games are fair, your money is safe, and if any problems arise, you have the UKGC to turn to for help.

Sites operating without a UKGC licence might seem tempting, perhaps with flashy bonuses or a wider variety of games. However, these sites can be risky. They might not have fair games, your personal information might not be secure, and if something goes wrong, you might not have any way to get your money back.

Always check for the UKGC logo at the bottom of the poker site’s website. It’s a quick and easy way to confirm you’re playing on a site that meets UK legal requirements and prioritises player safety.

Playing Poker Responsibly

Online poker can be a thrilling and enjoyable hobby, but it’s crucial to remember that gambling should always be approached responsibly. Think of it like any other form of entertainment – enjoyable in moderation, but potentially harmful if it takes over.

A key part of responsible poker playing is setting boundaries. Decide beforehand how much money and time you can comfortably dedicate to poker, and stick to those limits. Avoid chasing losses or playing when you’re feeling stressed or emotional, as this can cloud your judgement and lead to poor decisions.

Thankfully, online poker sites offer tools to help you stay in control. You can set limits on how much you deposit or lose, and even take a break from playing altogether with “time-out” features. If you need a longer break, self-exclusion options let you block access to your account for a set period or even permanently.

If you’re concerned about your gambling habits or those of someone you know, here are some organisations that can provide support and advice:

• GambleAware: www.gambleaware.org
• GAMSTOP: www.gamstop.co.uk
• National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133

Remember, playing poker responsibly ensures it remains an enjoyable and entertaining pastime.

Conclusion

The UK online poker scene is thriving, with a fantastic selection of sites catering to all types of players. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, there’s a perfect platform out there for you. Remember to prioritise safety and responsibility by choosing a UKGC-licensed site, setting limits on your play, and taking advantage of the responsible gambling tools available.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge from this guide, it’s time to explore the exciting world of online poker. Choose your preferred site, claim your welcome bonus, and get ready to shuffle up and deal.

FAQs

Is online poker legal in the UK?

Yes, online poker is completely legal in the UK, as long as you play at sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). These sites meet strict standards for fairness, security, and player protection.

What is the most trustworthy online poker site?

All of the sites featured in our guide are licensed by the UKGC and considered trustworthy. However, bet365 Poker stands out with its excellent reputation, strong security measures, and commitment to responsible gambling.

What is the best UK poker site?

The “best” site depends on your individual preferences. However, Coin Poker scores highly across various categories, offering a great all-round experience with a vast game selection, generous bonuses, and excellent software.

What online poker sites do pros use?

Professional poker players often use sites with large player pools and high-stakes games. However, many pros also play on other sites depending on their game preferences and tournament schedules. GGPoker boasts many professionals playing regularly.