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 poker sites for UK players in 2023 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.

Best UK Poker Websites in 2023

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 rooms, 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.

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 poker experience for everyone.

Room 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 / YPD 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 Poker Site in UK

For UK residents, we strongly recommend our best poker sites in the UK: GGPoker and PartyPoker/Bwin. 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 $50,000 GG Leaderboard.

Logo GGPoker
500£ Bonus/YPD 70k Race
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 PokerStars
600$ Bonus/Up to 65% Rakeback
7.7/10

More British Poker Sites

Discover a range of British poker sites that cater specifically to the UK audience, offering unique features, promotions, and a distinct local touch. Dive into these best poker sites to experience poker the British way!

Logo PokerKing
2.000$ Bonus/Up to 55% Rakeback
8.2/10
Logo BlackChipPoker
2.000$ Bonus/US Players Welcome
8.2/10

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.

New UK Online Poker Law and Gambling Overview

Acting as the primary regulatory body, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) oversees online poker and gambling activities within the UK. Originating from the Gambling Act of 2005, the UKGC has been pivotal in ensuring that online platforms maintain fairness, uphold transparency, and vigorously prevent underage gambling. With the rise of online poker in the early 2000s, this Act provided a concrete legal foundation for the industry, promoting trust and growth.

Licensing

It’s essential to note that all poker sites must have a UKGC license. To be granted this license, operators are obligated to meet stringent criteria. This includes ensuring the safe handling and protection of funds, active prevention of fraud and money laundering, and providing essential provisions for self-exclusion, thereby supporting individuals with gambling problems.

Tax on Gambling Winnings in the UK

Since December 2014, the introduction of a point of consumption tax requires all online gambling providers, irrespective of their location, to pay a 15% tax on profits generated from UK users. A significant highlight for players is that the UK does not tax gambling winnings. This means that players can retain their entire earnings without deductions.

UK Poker Market

The UK stands as a beacon for poker enthusiasts. With numerous premier poker sites, a plethora of diverse games, and attractive incentives, it has firmly positioned itself as a prime destination for poker players from all corners of the globe.

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.

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· Published 01.06.2019 · last updated 23.11.2023