The best UK VPN in 2024

The UK isn’t the best country when it comes to its citizens’ privacy. While there’s no state censorship to contend with, the country is a member of the “Five Eyes Alliance,” and the Investigatory Powers Act gives the government a huge amount of surveillance power. That’s exactly why the best UK VPNs are becoming more popular by the day.

The best VPNs allow you to encrypt everything you do before it leaves you device, meaning that neither the government, your internet provider, nor any malicious hackers can see what you’re doing and monitor your activity. What’s more, the best VPNs for the UK can even let you stream more with your Netflix subscription, and watch BBC iPlayer when you’re abroad.

Privacy, streaming, and ease of use form a large part of our extensive VPN review process, and we’ve done tons of hands-on testing from our UK base to bring together the five best VPNs for those in the country. If you’re in a hurry, though, pick from the top three just below.

My top 3 best UK VPNs today

While our ranking of the top providers hasn’t changed, I have added a table to compare some of the key statistics for each VPN quickly, and checked over all the facts and figures on the page.

The best UK VPNs of 2024

NordVPN: the best VPN overall

(Image credit: NordVPN)

A super fast, security-focused UK VPN

Available :Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux | Average UK speeds on 1Gbps line: 950 Mbps | Simultaneous connections :10 | Streaming sites is unblocked unblocked :Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Disney+ , BBC iPlayer , ITVX , C4 , 9Now , 10 play |Number of servers: 6,400+ | Server locations: 110+

Great for streaming

Extraordinary UK speeds

Superb security features

Apps can be awkward

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ You’re a big streamer: NordVPN is my number one choice for streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer and most other platforms you can think of.

✔ ️ You want built-in antivirus: Add an extra layer to your digital privacy with NordVPN’s handy antivirus suite.

✔ ️ You want a balanced VPN: NordVPN offers an impressive blend of price and performance, although other providers are cheaper.

Avoid if:

❌You want a super-simple UI: The map interface will suit some, but can be tricky to use on smaller screens.

❌ You’re a bargain hunter: While NordVPN prices are far from expensive, they still can’t match the likes of Surfshark.

line : ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

NordVPN doesn’t just talk a big game – it backs it up with some of the quickest speeds available and a whole host of privacy features. If you want a secure VPN for a reasonable price, NordVPN has your back in the UK and beyond.

NordVPN has the best dedicated UK VPN and the best security suite, offering tons of extras you won’t find elsewhere – including a password manager, encrypted cloud storage, cyber insurance, a malicious link checker, and more (although these don’t all come free).

When it comes down to the essentials, though, NordVPN offers great privacy and security. The provider has proven itself to be reliably secure with frequent independent audits, so you don’t have to take its no-logs claims on good faith alone.

There are more than 6,000 NordVPN servers around the world, so no matter where you are (or where you want to appear to be), you’ll be spoiled for choice. I’m glad to see that 600 of those are in the UK, based across locations in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow. You can choose which city you’d like to connect to or simply let NordVPN pick out the fastest server.

NordVPN is an awesome pick for streaming, too, and tops my rankings for the best Netflix VPN. You’ll be able to take your pick of international content libraries with ease, which is great news if you’re a fan of US shows. Plus, it will let you access the BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4 if you find yourself outside of the UK.

The NordVPN desktop apps look great; they’re easy to use and relatively free of clutter. You’ll be able to take a deep dive into the settings to tailor your experience, like switching up your protocols, and check out the kill switch that’ll leap into action if your VPN connection drops.

That’s not the only tool on your side. Subscribers to the Plus and Ultimate tiers will also get access to Threat Protection Pro, a system that automatically tackles malware, phishing scams and suspicious URLs on your behalf. This can be enabled or disabled in one click (even with the VPN turned off) and combines elements of antivirus to provide an all-in-one platform to keep you safe online.

My NordVPN review found that its mobile apps are functional, too, but I find the interface a little clunky. The map-based location picker has its downsides. Sure, it works well on a larger computer screen, but on mobile, it can leave even the deftest swiper feeling fat-fingered. In practice, though, it’s not a huge issue, as you’ll usually just set and forget.

NordVPN plan is bag bag 10 simultaneous connections , cover favorite devices . share subscription enjoy lightning – fast speeds ideal streaming .

looking mid – priced product protected enhance online experience , NordVPN is ‘s safe bet .

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NordVPN test results

Feature	Comments	Rating
Design	A little crowded, but still easy on the eyes	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	The map interface is slightly fiddly, but otherwise there aren’t any hiccups	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	fastest VPNs tested	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	Works seamlessly with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX and more	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Security privacy	Packed with features including a kill switch and built-in antivirus	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Customer support	24/7 support can troubleshoot even the most techy questions	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Price	Lots of value packed into modest prices	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

ExpressVPN: the best VPN user experience

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

Super simple to use and plenty of UK locations

Available :Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux (command-line only, routers | Average UK speeds on 1Gbps line: 900 Mbps | Simultaneous connections :8 | Streaming sites is unblocked unblocked :Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Disney+ , BBC iPlayer , ITVX , C4 , 9Now , 10 play |Number of servers: 3,000+ | Server locations: 160

Excellent UK connections

Reliable servers across the globe

Stellar support

Intuitive apps

Maximum of eight devices

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ You is need need proven privacy :ExpressVPN has an unwavering commitment to safeguarding its users with an audited no-logs policy.

✔ ️ You welcome user-friendly apps: The clever folk behind the scenes work tirelessly on delivering good-to-use apps – and it shows.

✔ ️ You is want want stream international content : It’s an outstanding streaming VPN that can unblock virtually any site or app, including overseas Netflix catalogs.

Avoid if:

❌ You is ‘re budget :Though you’re getting plenty of quality, an ExpressVPN subscription isn’t cheap.

❌You want the fastest VPN around: ExpressVPN is no slouch, but NordVPN and Surfshark are a little quicker.

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐½

ExpressVPN is a service that does it all. From unblocking overseas content to keeping you safe on your own journeys, ExpressVPN has long been one of the very best players in the VPN game.

ExpressVPN gives you everything you need in one tidy package. You’ll have access to slick mobile apps as well as options for Windows PCs, Macs, and other devices like Amazon Fire Sticks and routers – plus there’s excellent 24/7 support in case anything doesn’t work as it should.

Currently, ExpressVPN has servers dotted across 105 countries, including several in the UK, and you’ll have no trouble switching between them. You can manually connect to UK locations in London or the Midlands, or let ExpressVPN pair you up with a preselected server.

expect market leaders , privacy is is major priority ExpressVPN . plans covered super tough 256 – bit encryption , variety protocols mean prioritize speed security clicks . impressive performance is is makes ExpressVPN best torrenting VPNs .

blown away ExpressVPN unblocking power – fact , it is work work streaming service think , Netflix , Amazon Prime , best BBC iPlayer VPNs . , matter world , you is miss wo miss favorite shows .

Any VPN worth its salt needs to offer a seriously speedy performance, too, and I’m happy to see ExpressVPN is more than capable of handling HD streaming, gaming, and video calls without any hiccups. Connections are also virtually unaffected when using UK servers and remain swift when you hop for a further-flung one. That said, the 900 Mbps I clocked it at falls just short of the incredible 950+ Mbps I recorded when testing NordVPN and Surfshark.

It is ‘s worth noting areas ExpressVPN review falls offering additional features users , definitely catching . example , capable ExpressVPN Keys password manager , rival NordVPN is gives gives malicious link checker , antivirus – like system , cyber insurance . extras use important , VPNs is be worth considering – especially Express lofty price point .

Despite , , ExpressVPN makes offering – rounded service market . polished features , – designed apps , audited privacy policy , it is ‘s impossible wrong ExpressVPN .

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ExpressVPN test results

Feature	Comments	Rating
Design	A fantastic and fresh-feeling design across all apps	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease of use	Beginners will have no trouble accessing features	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Performance	A speedy service, although others are quicker	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks tons of content in the UK and overseas	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Security privacy	An audited service with 256-bit encryption	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Customer support	24/7 live chat is is hand help	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Price	A pricey option, but packed with value	⭐⭐⭐

Surfshark: the best cheap VPN

Super affordable and great for streaming

Available :Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux (GUI) | Average UK speeds on 1Gbps line: 950+ Mbps | Simultaneous connections :Unlimited |Streaming sites is unblocked unblocked :Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Disney+ , BBC iPlayer , ITVX , C4 , 9Now , 10 play |Number of servers: 3,200+ | Server locations: 100+

Excellent value

User-friendly apps and clients

Unblocks iPlayer and the rest

We discovered some kill switch issues

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ You want the best budget VPN: Surfshark plans are seriously cheap – and jam-packed with quality features.

✔ ️ You need unlimited connections: One subscription is all you need to keep your friends and family’s devices secure.

✔ ️ You want a super-fast VPN: Surfshark’s speeds are hard to beat, peaking at a blazing 950 Mbps.

Avoid if:

❌ You rely on your kill switch: I is was able break Surfshark kill switch , probably wo happen real life , NordVPN better pick .

❌Price hikes upset you: Beware that those low low prices  increase at the end of your term.

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐½

Surfshark crams a ton of functionality into its bargain subscriptions – so, if you’re working with a budget, it’s a great pick. Surfshark rounds out its offering with unbeatable speeds and unblocking power, and a broad network of servers scattered around the globe.

Surfshark is an incredibly good value proposition for anyone wanting to strike a balance between price and performance. Available for less than £2/$2.50 a month, it delivers unbeatable value for money while providing a fully-featured UK VPN service.

For me, Surfshark’s speed and unblocking power set it apart from its competitors – it’s an awesome choice if you want to watch UK TV abroad. Surfshark is more than capable of unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and regional platforms, and actually does better than some other, more expensive VPNs.

Surfshark reached speeds of around 950 Mbps during my tests, making it one of the fastest VPNs I’ve encountered. Naturally, this is good news if you plan to do any torrenting, streaming, or online gaming.

Each Surfshark app is well thought out and easy to navigate. The clients are all pretty similar, sharing a stable interface, so you shouldn’t have any trouble swapping from desktop to mobile, even if you’re totally new to the VPN world. Digging into the settings is also straightforward, and you’ll be able to swap protocols and check out Surfshark’s stacked roster of features.

A handy Whitelister lets you pick and choose which sites and apps use the VPN connection and which don’t, the CleanWeb feature gets rid of annoying ads and trackers, and the Surfshark kill switch will prevent your details from falling into the wrong hands if your VPN connection drops – though it’s worth noting that I was able to break the kill switch when I pushed it to its limit during testing.

Surfshark also features the useful Alternative ID feature. This is a great way to reduce spam emails and protect your personal details from being leaked. When signing up for services, you can generate a randomly created identity, complete with an email address, to distance yourself from your account. Those in the US can even get a (paid) add-on called Alternative Number that lets them create a spoof phone number, and this is reportedly coming to the UK soon.

As per my Surfshark VPN review, one of the provider’s most useful features is its unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you’ll only need one subscription to keep all of your devices secure – whether you’re in the UK or travelling overseas. That’d be impressive on its own, but considering how Surfshark is one of the best cheap VPNs on the block, it’s extra proof of its commitment to providing privacy for just about everyone. 

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Surfshark test results

Feature	Comments	Rating
Design	apps is are simple , clean , minimalistic	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease of use	Perfect VPN newbies	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Performance	A lightning-fast provider on par with NordVPN	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	One of the best unblocking VPNs on the market	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	Kill switch has its issues, but otherwise rock solid	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	24/7 support is available, as well as a plethora of articles	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	Super-low prices that don’t skimp on quality	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

The best of the rest

( Image credit : Private Internet Access )

Privacy-focussed VPN that also excels for streaming

Available :Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI) | Average UK speeds on 1Gbps line: 430 Mbps | Simultaneous connections :Unlimited |Streaming sites is unblocked unblocked :Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Disney+ , BBC iPlayer , ITVX , C4 , 9Now , 10 play |Number of servers: 10,000+ | Server locations: 150 +

Great value pricing

Strong on streaming

Proven privacy policy

Slower connection speeds competition

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ A huge server selection appeals: PIA’s servers cover 91 countries, all 50 US states and locations in London, Manchester and Southampton. 

✔ ️ Price is a key consideration: PIA has got really aggresive of late when it comes to pricing, meaning you can take advantage and pick up a bargain.

✔ ️ You value your privacy: PIA’s robust privacy policy has been tested twice in the courts and prevailed both times.

Avoid if:

❌You have a need for speed: The top speeds we recorded in our testing are well down on the fastest out there.

❌You want an easy ride: PIA is jam-packed with customizability, but that can be a bit intimidating for new users.  

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐½

Private Internet Access sits in our top 5 overall VPNs and is a natural fit here, too (unless top speeds are your main consideration). It’s nice to use, boasts tons of servers and the bargain pricing packs in a fair few features.

Private Internet Access (PIA) wasn’t always among my favorite VPNs, but the provider has really made massive strides in recent years. Now, you’ll see it featured in a wide variety of Tom’s Guide’s ‘best VPN for…’ guides and would make an excellent UK VPN, too.

There are several areas that stand out for praise in my Private Internet Access review, and they start with privacy. The clue’s kind of in the name that the provider would take this aspect seriously, and it guarantees zero logging. Sure, any company can claim that. But PIA has been challenged twice in the U.S. courts and come through without having to reveal any user information. That certainly puts our mind at rest.

Outside of that, there’s your choice of AES-128 or AES-256 encryption, proprietary DNS servers, access to integrated ad and tracker blockers, and a reliable kill switch tool to ensure that your traffic isn’t leaked when the internet connection drops. It even brought in independent auditors Deloitte to give its systems the seal of approval.

privacy is is number focus mind selecting UK VPN , streaming capabilities important . good news is is PIA strong department , . unlocking overseas Netflix Amazon Prime Video catalogs UK , seamlessly accessing BBC iPlayer ITVX holiday , PIA is is task .

One criticism we levelled at PIA was that the sheer amount of features on offer may actually be too many for those who are new to VPNs. The likes of ExpressVPN and Surfshark endeavour to ease inexperienced users into their tools with a little more consideration than PIA.

It feels less harsh to downgrade PIA on the basis of its connection speeds. It maxed out at 330 Mbps when tested on our 1Gbps line. That’s by no means slow, but is way behind the 950+ Mbps results we extracted from NordVPN and Surfshark.

Another comparison you’ll inevitably make, though, is price – and that might just swing the balance back in PIA’s favor. It has slashed prices on its multi-year plan, bringing it all the way down into line with Surfshark. That’s incredibly competitive, especially when you consider that a single subscription covers as many devices at once as you like.

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Private Internet Access test results

Feature	Comments	Rating
Design	Customize your apps to your heart’s content	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	Wealth of settings may overcomplicate things for some users	⭐⭐⭐
Performance	Behind the rest on speed	⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks all the major services we test on	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Security privacy	PIA’s privacy policy has been tested and has passed with flying colors	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Customer support	Plenty of helpful guides and live chat available	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	Extremely competetive – PIA is a bargain	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

---

stylish UK VPN service try risk – free 45 days

Available :Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux | Average UK speeds on 1Gbps line: 760 Mbps | Simultaneous connections :7 | Streaming sites is unblocked unblocked :Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now | Number of servers: 9,000+ | Server locations: 100

Lengthy guarantee period

Optimized streaming torrenting

Impressive speeds

Support could be improved

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ Simple is better: CyberGhost apps are straightforward and clutter-free, making them ideal for VPN newcomers (and tech veterans.)

✔ ️ You want plenty of time for testing: A 45-day money-back guarantee gives you over a month to take CyberGhost for a test drive.

✔ ️ You’re looking for affordable quality: CyberGhost will only set you back around $2/month, making it one of the cheapest VPNs out there.

Avoid if:

❌You rely on online support: CyberGhost’s support site isn’t as well-stocked with resources as others.

❌You have lots of devices: You’ll only get 7 simultaneous connections with CyberGhost, which may not be enough to cover the whole family.

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

CyberGhost is a tried and tested provider that boasts some of the best apps on the market – and a sprawling network of servers around the globe. However, there are better VPNs out there if you’re going to be streaming regularly.

One is is things notice boot CyberGhost app servers choose – 9,000 100 countries , fact . spread is means servers means trouble accessing content overseas , avoiding blocks , server locations UK ( Berkshire , London , Manchester , plus Isle Man ) .

One of my favorite features is the CyberGhost server filtering system. If you’re looking for a server that’s best suited to, say, streaming Netflix, you can filter them to only display those that will deliver the best Netflix experience. This is a relatively nice-to-have feature, but it does make CyberGhost one of the most streamlined services I’ve used.

BBC iPlayer and ITVX area easily unblocked by CyberGhost from overseas, as are other international streamers like Hulu and 9Now. I wasn’t able to access Australia’s 10 play in my latest round of testing, though.

looked CyberGhost review , I is discovered discovered privacy policy promises log identifying information . good , I is love love undertake independent audit remove doubt .

It’s also worth noting that CyberGhost’s support system isn’t nearly as good as ExpressVPN’s and others. You won’t be left in the lurch if something goes wrong, but it is possible that it’ll take a little longer for any problems to be rectified – and this could be a deal-breaker for VPN newbies who expect to call on customer support at some point.

Although it can’t quite meet the measure of my other top UK VPN picks, CyberGhost is still a reliable service that’s made a name for itself and is a mainstay in the industry.

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CyberGhost test results

Feature	Comments	Rating
Design	Sleek simple , plenty customization	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	Ideal for beginners and VPN experts	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	Decent speeds that are outpaced by industry leaders	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Good, but can’t access all major platforms despite its dedicated servers	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	A strong privacy policy, although lacking an audit	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	Responses could be quicker and more thorough	⭐⭐⭐
Price	A budget-friendly provider	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Mo Harber-Lamond

Mo is VPN Editor at Tom’s Guide. He’s covered VPNs since 2020, and in that time he has helped test and review over 100 providers. Mo handles the day-to-day testing of VPNs and applies the results to circumstances that apply to real people. He also undertakes ongoing streaming testing to make sure these services can unblock everything they claim and produces video content discussing and demonstrating how to use VPN software. 

The top 3 UK VPNs compared

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Row 0 – Cell 0	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Lowest possible price (per month)	$3.09	$6.67	$2.19
No. of servers (global)	6,400+	3,000+	3,200+
No. of UK server locations	4	4	4
Average speed on 1 Gbps line	950 Mbps	900 Mbps	950 Mbps
Simultaneous connections	10	8	Unlimited
Available on:	Windows/Mac/Android/iOS/Linux (	Windows/Mac/Android/iOS/Linux (Command Line only)	Windows/Mac/Android/iOS/Linux (GUI)

What’s the fastest UK VPN?

A standout VPN won’t make you sacrifice speed for privacy – and all of our top picks are quick enough to keep up with torrenting, online gaming, and video calls. Tons of people are using their VPNs primarily for streaming these days, too, so your service needs to be able to load HD and 4K content without buffering for what feels like an eternity.

Testing VPN performance review process , use variety tools accurate readings , including Ookla SpeedTest website CLI , nPerf , Netflix Fast , . , I is take average ( median ) provider results clear idea speed range , repeat tests morning evening ensure accurate .

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VPN Provider	WireGuard proprietary	OpenVPN
1. Surfshark	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	640 Mbps
2. Mullvad	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	410 Mbps
3 . Proton VPN	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	400 Mbps
4. Windscribe	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	240 Mbps
5. PrivadoVPN	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	220 Mbps
6. NordVPN	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	110 Mbps
7. Norton VPN	over 950 Mbps (maxed out our testing)	240 Mbps
8. ExpressVPN	900 Mbps	160 Mbps
9. PureVPN	880 Mbps	210 Mbps
10. Atlas VPN	785 Mbps	N/A
11. IPVanish	770 Mbps	230 Mbps
12. CyberGhost	760 Mbps	360 Mbps
13. FastestVPN	730 Mbps	170 Mbps
14. AirVPN	710 Mbps	300 Mbps
15. Hide.me	690 Mbps	210 Mbps
16. Hotspot Shield	600 Mbps	N/A
17. VyprVPN	590 Mbps	145 Mbps
18 . TunnelBear	480 Mbps	180 Mbps
19. StrongVPN	395 Mbps	210 Mbps
20. Astrill VPN	390 Mbps (unstable speeds)	N/A
21. Private VPN	350 Mbps	125 Mbps
22. Private Internet Access	330 Mbps	270 Mbps
23. Mozilla VPN	360 Mbps	N/A
24. Google One	345 Mbps	N/A
25. UltraVPN	300 Mbps	N/A

^ Back to the top

How I test UK VPN services

When it comes to recommending a product that users will entrust with quite possibly every byte of their online life, I have to be absolutely sure that my choices are correct and thoroughly tested.

Unlike some sites, we don’t simply reel off a spec sheet and declare the provider with most impressive claims the winner. Instead, we have a dedicated team in-house that gets hands-on with all the providers listed (and more). 

months , scouring website new claimed features changes policy , we is sign sign plan install range devices . Windows app is sees sees rigorous testing , try break kill switch , ensure leak protection working correctly , measure connection speeds .

The other apps, including the Mac VPN, iPhone VPN, and Android VPN also see comprehensive testing, and we’ll check every available setting in every app to make sure it’s functioning as promised by the provider.

As we use the apps, if anything appears to be behaving strangely we’ll investigate that. We might dig into the source code, or view the contents of its RAM. This general usage stage is also how we make decisions on aesthetics and ease of use – although these naturally have to be more subjective.

Then comes the streaming tests. We’ll use each VPN with all the big streaming sites from a number of locations to ensure it’s working as claimed. As Netflix is still hugely popular and somewhat troublesome when it comes to VPNs, we test the biggest providers every month to make sure my recommendations are still relevant.

Best UK VPN FAQ

Are VPNs legal in the UK?

In short, yes – VPNs are totally legal in the UK. There are no laws in place restricting how citizens or visitors use them, but do be aware that any illegal activity undertaken while using a VPN is still illegal.

What makes a great UK VPN?

Security privacy always come first, so ensure that your chosen service is guaranteed to keep you safe online – the Tom’s Guide team has verified that all our recommendations are rock-solid with hands-on testing. Excellent connection speeds are also a must-have for most users, and streaming performance is a bonus many will appreciate.

It’s worth considering what devices you’ll be using your VPN on. For example, if you’re an iPhone user, having good performance on iOS will be a must. Thankfully all the providers I’ve recommended here offer great mobile apps alongside powerful desktop clients.

NordVPN tops my list. It combines slick apps with flawless privacy credentials and streaming performance to provide the best all-round VPN for the UK. However, other providers might take your fancy, so be sure to check out our in-depth reviews for more information.

Why do I need a UK VPN?

reasons want UK VPN .   Firstly , UK , you is ‘re probably aware government little nosy . want search history online activity private , VPN is is essential tool .

Other Brits might just want to have access to overseas streaming media. While we’ve got iPlayer and the UK library on Netflix, having a VPN can give you access to the world’s media, including foreign Netflix and even services like Hulu if you’ve got a subscription.

Finally, if you’re abroad, you might want to hop onto iPlayer, but you’ll find that you’ll be unable to access it. iPlayer also has some of the strictest VPN blocking tech in the streaming industry, so only the best can bypass this and get you watching abroad. Thankfully, every VPN on this list can do that for you.

Can I get a free UK VPN?

Free services can be double-edged swords – while they can offer some of the benefits of a paid-for VPN, they’re never the whole package.

One of the best is Proton VPN Free which, although it’s still nowhere near as good as the paid product.

While useful for very infrequent use, they’re no good for streaming and torrenting, and you’ll soon find yourself on the hunt for the best UK VPN – even if it’ll cost you a couple of quid a month.

How do UK VPNs unblock Netflix?

Netflix has different libraries for many countries around the world, and these libraries are only accessible to those in that country. This is a problem for holidaymakers, and many others just want to watch shows they’re not ‘allowed’ to.

A VPN can relocate you to any country you want, and the best will do this in a way that’s undetectable by the streaming service. Once you’ve done that, you’re free to watch whatever you want.

Should I use a UK-based VPN?

Seeing as the UK has some of the nosiest online laws in the world – and is a member of the notorious Five Eyes alliance – true privacy nuts are likely to avoid VPNs based in the UK.

While there’s not a huge amount anyway, the most well-known UK-based VPN is HideMyAss. HMA doesn’t often feature on my roundups of top VPN services, but that’s because the competition is just so strong. However, while it’s UK-based, it does have a fairly robust no-logging policy, which means that even if the UK government decided to stick its oar in and demand information, HMA wouldn’t have anything to hand over.

A no-logging policy is especially important for a VPN based in a country with stricter data laws – the UK being one of them – so when you’re making your decision that should be factored in.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:

1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).

2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.

We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.