The UK, a nation renowned for its deep-rooted history and culture, has witnessed a burgeoning interest in online poker. Leading the pack for the best online poker sites for UK players in 2024 are GGPoker, PokerStars, WPT Global, and many other poker sites. They have firmly stamped their presence in the country’s online poker arenas. But the question arises: Can you play online poker in the UK? Join us as we explore the UK’s online poker landscape.

List of UK Poker Sites

Here’s our list of the best poker sites in the UK, highlighting the top platforms for poker enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner just starting with basic poker games or an expert ready for multi-table tournaments, these sites cater to all. In addition to diverse poker games, they also offer attractive poker bonuses. Feel free to visit any site on our list to dive deeper. Always prioritizing safety, these platforms ensure a secure and enjoyable real money online poker experience for everyone.

Pokersite Info Bonus
Sign up GGPoker 👑 best UK Poker Site, 24/7 full tables at all variants and limits 600$ Bonus / Up to 60% Rakeback
Sign up WPT Global ☑️ softest player field for Texas Holdem 1.200$ Bonus / VIP Deal
Sign up PokerKing ☑️ Cryptocurrencies available as payment option 2.000$ Bonus / Up to 55% Rakeback
Sign up PokerStars UK ☑️ 24/7 full tables and super software 600$ Bonus / Up to 65% Rakeback

Best UK Poker Websites in 2024

Poker – both brick and mortar and online – is well established in the United Kingdom (UK). It is understandable that there are many UK poker sites because the UK market is one of the biggest in the world. Here we aim to showcase the best UK poker sites, with the best bonuses, poker games, promotions, and rakeback deals.
That’s not all! In addition to our extensive reviews of various poker games, we have also added essential details so that you can be properly informed regarding important matters such as software, traffic, competition, bonuses, and rakeback. It is necessary to know which rooms and poker games allow you to maximize your profits, which, after all, is what playing poker is all about. For more information on these poker games and more, feel free to visit the sites listed below.

Best Poker Site for UK Players

For UK residents, we strongly recommend our best poker sites in the UK: GGPoker. GGPoker stands out due to its abundance of casual Asian players and excellent rakeback deals/promotions.

Rake: 5% with caps from $0.20 at NL2 to $2 at NL25.
Rakeback: Expect up to 60% weekly rakeback through the Fish Buffet loyalty program. Additional perks come with leaderboard participation, and of course, through our VIP Deal and extensive affiliate leaderboard.
HUD Support: Not provided. However, an in-built SmartHUD shows players’ VPIP for the current session. Hand histories are downloadable for tracker imports.
Traffic Volume: About 100 tables open per micro-stake level. As part of GGNetwork, GGPoker surpassed PokerStars in traffic, emerging as the leading network. While catering primarily to casual players, pros are also welcome under certain rules.

Register at GGPoker using Bonus Code: YPD to access monthly $6,000 private tournaments, our $1,500 YPD MTT Leaderboard, and the $70,000 GG Leaderboard.

Logo GGPoker
600$ Bonus/YPD VIP Deal
9.0/10

Best Beginners UK Poker Site

PokerStars rose to prominence in the poker world, especially after Chris Moneymaker’s 2003 World Series of Poker victory. Now under The Stars Group, it’s known for a wide game range, from Texas Hold’em to unique variants, as well as major tournaments like WCOOP and SCOOP. It’s a hub for both newcomers and pros, offering diverse Sit & Go tournaments and attractive bonuses through the Stars Rewards loyalty program.
Rake: PokerStars takes a rake from each pot, which is usually 5%. The amount varies with the game type and stakes, but for many cash games, it’s a percentage of the pot with a set cap.
Rakeback: Through “Stars Rewards,” players accumulate points while playing poker. These points can be exchanged for rewards, serving as rakeback. At PokerStars, you can earn 25% Rakeback plus various reload bonuses.
HUD Support: PokerStars once permitted HUDs (Heads Up Displays) and other poker tools. They’ve since adjusted their policies, limiting some HUD functions to promote fair play. The most important HUD tools, like PokerTracker and Hold’em Manager, are still accepted.
Traffic Volume: With thousands of players online, PokerStars ensures easy game access across stakes and formats, anytime.

Logo WPTGlobal
1.200$ Bonus/YPD VIP Deal
8.8/10

More British Poker Sites

Discover a range of Top Online Poker Sites that cater specifically to a global audience, offering unique features, promotions, and a distinct international touch. Dive into these premier poker sites to experience world-class poker!

Logo TigerGaming
1.000$ Bonus/25k YPD Race
5.8/10
Logo PokerStars
600$ Bonus/Up to 65% Rakeback
7.7/10
Logo PokerKing
2.000$ Bonus/Up to 55% Rakeback
8.2/10

Understanding Rake and Rakeback in Online Poker

For those new to online poker, understanding the concepts of rake and rakeback is essential. Rake is a small fee taken by the poker site from each pot in cash games or as a portion of the entry fee in tournaments. It’s the primary way poker sites generate revenue. Rakeback, on the other hand, is a reward system where players receive a percentage of the rake they have paid back into their account. This serves as an incentive for players and can significantly boost their overall earnings over time.

UK Poker Apps: best Mobile Poker at Your Fingertips

Poker apps are specially designed mobile applications that bring the excitement and strategy of the poker table right to your fingertips. Tailored to provide a smooth gameplay experience on mobile devices, these apps have grown immensely popular, offering players the flexibility to play on-the-go.

Poker has always held a special place in the hearts of UK enthusiasts, and with the dawn of the digital era, accessing and enjoying this beloved game has never been more convenient. As mobile technology continues its rapid evolution, a multitude of sites have eagerly embraced the trend, launching their own dedicated poker apps. These apps have unlocked a vibrant world of mobile poker, empowering you to dive into thrilling poker games whenever and wherever you wish, whether you’re on your phone during a daily commute or relaxing with your tablet at home.

The allure of these poker apps isn’t just their accessibility; they encapsulate the rich variety and depth of games available on their primary platforms. For those new to the world of online poker or facing any glitches, fear not. A robust customer support system is often embedded within these apps to promptly assist you.

Beyond the core features, there’s a world of perks awaiting players. These apps frequently introduce enticing poker bonuses, turning each game session into an opportunity for impressive gains. So, for every poker enthusiast in the UK, these poker apps stand as a beacon for top-tier gaming and lucrative bonuses.

To truly optimise your poker journey, apps like the renowned “GGPoker App”, which has made significant waves in the UK market, are worth exploring. As a tip, always sift through user reviews and be attentive to the app’s specifications for an impeccable poker experience.

Evolution of Online Poker in the UK

The journey of online poker in the UK began in the late 1990s and early 2000s, coinciding with the global rise of internet gaming. This era marked a significant shift from traditional, physical poker rooms to the digital realm, offering players the convenience of playing from their homes.

Historical Milestones

The Gambling Act of 2005 was a key piece of legislation that established a framework for controlling gambling activities, including online poker. This Act was pivotal in ensuring a safe and regulated environment for players, thereby promoting trust and growth in the industry. Another milestone was Chris Moneymaker’s victory in the 2003 World Series of Poker, which spurred a poker boom and significantly increased the game’s popularity in the UK and worldwide.

The UK market continued to evolve with the introduction of the 2014 Gambling Bill, which required offshore poker sites to obtain a UK license and adhere to UK regulations. This further reinforced the UK’s commitment to a safe and transparent online poker environment.

Today, the UK stands as a hub for poker enthusiasts, offering a blend of traditional poker values with modern, innovative platforms. From small local games to large-scale online tournaments, the UK’s poker scene reflects a rich and diverse gaming culture.

New UK Online Poker Law and Gambling Overview

Acting as the primary regulatory body, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) plays a crucial role in overseeing online poker and gambling activities within the UK. Established under the Gambling Act of 2005, the UKGC is responsible for licensing and regulating all gambling operations, ensuring that they comply with the law and operate in a fair, responsible manner.

Licensing and Compliance

Under the Gambling Act, all poker sites operating in the UK must obtain a UKGC license. This licensing process involves rigorous checks and ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance with strict standards. Poker operators must demonstrate the integrity of their gaming software, the protection of player funds, and the effectiveness of their systems to prevent fraud and money laundering. Additionally, they are required to offer self-exclusion options and support responsible gambling initiatives to help those with gambling problems.

Taxation and Financial Regulations

The introduction of the point of consumption tax in December 2014 marked a significant change in the UK’s approach to online gambling taxation. This tax requires all online gambling providers, regardless of their base of operations, to pay a 15% tax on profits generated from UK customers. Notably, gambling winnings in the UK are not subject to personal income tax, allowing players to retain the entirety of their winnings.

The Evolving UK Poker Market

The UK continues to be a leading market for online poker, boasting a wide range of top-tier poker sites. These platforms offer a rich array of games, catering to diverse player preferences and skill levels, and are enhanced by competitive incentives and promotions. The robust regulatory framework established by the UKGC ensures a fair and secure environment, making the UK an attractive destination for poker players worldwide.

Live Poker in the UK!

Explore the UK’s vibrant poker scene, perfect for both seasoned players and beginners. Experience poker in bustling London, historic Nottingham, and beyond.

UK poker is more than a game—it’s an adventure. Imagine playing in prestigious casinos, where poker legends have made history. Experience the thrill of going all in, the camaraderie at the tables, and the joy of a well-played hand.

What sets UK poker apart is its diversity. From high-stakes games in luxurious venues to friendly tournaments in local clubs, there’s something for everyone. It’s not just Texas Hold’em; explore a variety of poker games.

Whether you’re aiming to compete with top players or seeking a fun night out, the UK’s live poker scene is ready for you. Shuffle up and deal! 🃏✨

Great Britain’s Top Casinos for Poker Enthusiasts

Name Location Description Homepage
Dusk Till Dawn Nottingham Premier poker destination in the UK, hosting major tournaments. More info
The Poker Room @ The Vic London 35 poker tables and high-quality cash games. More info
Aspers Stratford London UK’s largest casino, near Stratford tube station. More info
Hippodrome London Stylish poker room in partnership with PokerStars. More info
The Empire Casino London Friendly atmosphere and accommodating staff. More info
Les Ambassadeurs London Luxurious venue in Mayfair for high-stakes games. More info
Grosvenor Casino Leeds Flagship poker room in the North of England. More info
Manchester235 Manchester Reputation for quality and friendliness with 10 full-sized tables. More info
Alea Casino Glasgow Scotland’s best option for cash games and tournaments. More info
Alea Casino Nottingham Artistic design, 13 poker tables, and a friendly atmosphere. More info

Conclusion About Online Poker UK

Poker Sites in the United Kingdom boasts a rich history, transitioning from smoky pub backrooms to contemporary digital platforms powered by cutting-edge software. The surge in online poker’s popularity in the UK over the years is evident as numerous players flock to the platforms daily. British poker sites combine traditional values with modern innovations, offering top-notch real money gaming experiences both on desktop and mobile, alongside enticing poker deals UK players appreciate. With robust player protections in place, both seasoned UK poker players and newcomers find a dynamic, diverse UK online poker scene.

Poker games in the UK carry a unique identity rooted in the country’s culture. Ranging from age-old family games like “Three Card Brag” to international standards such as Texas Hold’em, they reflect the nation’s blend of past and present. Poker rooms in the UK, whether physical or online, rival global standards with an authentic ambiance, evolving beyond gaming venues into community hubs fostering both camaraderie and competition among UK poker players.

For those eager to play poker games in the UK, options range from intimate local pub games to elite casino settings, with tech enthusiasts favoring advanced online platforms or mobile poker apps powered by top-tier software. British poker platforms are notable for their dedication to fair play and stringent security measures. UK poker players can refine strategies, participate in diverse online tournaments, from Sit & Go’s to multi-table tournaments, and thoroughly enjoy their game.

Online Poker Site UK FAQ

We have listed some of the most important questions about online poker in UK in this section. If you have further questions, you can kindly forward them to:

Email: info@yourpokerdream.com
Skype: vip-yourpokerdream
Telegram Messenger: https://t.me/Yourpokerdream
Discord Channel YourPokerDream Community: https://discord.gg/G2A5B3a76q

Yes, online poker is legal in the UK. The UK has one of the most well-regulated and player-friendly online gambling environments in the world. The Gambling Commission in UK (UKGC) regulates all gambling forms, including online poker games like Omaha Poker and Texas Holdem Poker, ensuring fairness and integrity in their operations.

Yes, you can play on PokerStars in the UK. Poker Stars UK operates legally in the UK under a license granted by the UK Gambling Commission.

If you want to earn as much extra rakeback as possible, you need to participate in our exclusive promotions, so make sure you register an account or sign up through us. Currently, we run a lot of exclusive promotionsprivate freeroll tournaments, and so on, and we offer the highest possible UK Rakeback Deals for Poker Players that you can find online.

Our recommended UK online poker rooms offer a very high First Deposit Bonus, exciting standard rakeback programs and attractive promotions. You will have access to all these offers and receive numerous extras from YourPokerDream.

In some cases, this is possible if you have an existing account at one of our partner sites. Check out our link an existing account to YourPokerDream page.

Online poker rooms vary in quality. We’ve streamlined the search for the best ones to play poker with real money. Our YourPokerDream team, made up of experts, knows the essential criteria.

  • 24/7 Cash Game and Tournament Traffic
  • Quick, secure deposits and withdrawals
  • Top Rakeback and promotions
  • Modern, reliable software
  • Profitable soft player fields
  • Customer Support

“UK poker rooms” includes online sites based in or catering to UK players. A 2014 UK law mandates poker sites to have a license from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to operate in the UK. Given the expansive UK market, nearly all major sites secured this license to serve local players.

Live poker in the UK has a rich history and vibrant scene, especially in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

  1. Venues: The UK has numerous poker venues. The most famous is probably “The Vic” or The Grosvenor Victoria Casino in London, which has hosted countless poker tournaments and cash games over the years. Grosvenor Casinos, in general, has several establishments across the UK that offer poker.
  2. Tournaments: The UK has hosted many major poker tournaments:
    • UKIPT (UK & Ireland Poker Tour): Sponsored by PokerStars, it has been one of the significant poker tours in the UK and Ireland.
    • GUKPT (Grosvenor UK Poker Tour): A series of tournaments held at Grosvenor Casinos around the country.
    • The UK also occasionally hosts the European Poker Tour (EPT) events, especially in London.
  3. Players: The UK has produced many world-class poker players over the years. Famous names include Sam Trickett, Charlie Carrel, Stephen Chidwick, and the late Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott, among others.
  4. Poker Clubs and Societies: Beyond the formal casino setting, there are also many local poker clubs and societies in various towns and cities across the UK. These often host smaller, friendly games and can be a great way to get involved in the community.
  5. Culture: With its rich history, live poker in the UK has a distinct culture. British poker rooms are often characterized by a mix of serious play and friendly banter, and you’ll find a diverse group of players from all walks of life.

Poker is a global game with a core set of rules that are consistent worldwide, including in the UK. However, certain nuances and traditions might vary by region. Here’s a basic guide to playing poker, focusing on aspects relevant to the UK:

  1. Basic Poker Rules:
    • Poker Hands: The ranking of poker hands, from highest to lowest, is: Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, Full House, Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, Two Pair, One Pair, and High Card.
    • Betting Rounds: Depending on the variant, there will be multiple rounds of betting where players can bet, check, raise, or fold.
    • Winning: The aim is to either have the best hand at showdown or to convince other players to fold their hands.
  2. Popular Variants:
    • Texas Hold’em: The most popular form globally and in the UK. Players are dealt two private cards and use five community cards to form the best hand.
    • Pot-Limit Omaha: Similar to Texas Hold’em but players are dealt four private cards, and they must use exactly two of them in conjunction with three of the five community cards.
    • Seven-Card Stud: No community cards. Players are dealt seven cards, three face down and four face up. They use the best five cards to form a hand.
  3. UK Specifics:
    • Legislation: In the UK, poker is regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. Both live and online poker are legal and well-regulated.
    • Tournaments: There are regular poker tournaments in casinos across the UK, with buy-ins ranging from small amounts to high-stakes.
    • Cash Games: Played in most casinos, where real money is wagered on each hand as opposed to tournaments where players buy in for a certain amount and play with tournament chips.
    • Home Games: In the UK, it’s legal to host poker games at home as long as no one profits from hosting the game (i.e., no rake or fee for playing). The emphasis is on friendly, non-commercial games.
  4. Etiquette:
    • Waiting Your Turn: Always wait for your turn before acting.
    • Protect Your Hand: Keep your cards visible and protected with a chip or card protector.
    • Clear Betting: When betting, make your intentions clear.
    • Be Respectful: Poker can be intense, but always be polite and respectful to fellow players and the dealer.
  5. Taxation: Gambling winnings, including from poker, aren’t typically subject to tax in the UK. This means players get to keep 100% of their poker earnings, whether they play live or online. However, professional players may have different tax implications based on their situation

Typically, video poker is not offered on online poker sites that are exclusively poker rooms. Poker sites primarily focus on providing variations of player vs. player poker games. However, many online casino sites in the UK do offer video poker, along with a variety of other games, and these sites often include poker rooms as well. So, if you are looking to play video poker, it’s best to explore online casino sites in the UK, which are regulated and licensed, ensuring a secure gaming experience.

last updated 14.03.2024