With the growing number of bettors who seek alternatives to UK-licensed bookies, independent bookmakers showed up with great offers. The best independent bookmakers accept punters who signed up for the GamStop self-exclusion scheme. They offer a more personalised and diverse betting experience. Irish independent bookmakers, in particular, are known for including niche sports and international competitions in their offer.
Another important advantage of independent bookmakers is that they build trust and rapport with players. Unlike larger, corporate entities, they prioritise communication and feedback to shape their offerings. Many UK punters prefer that more intimate and interactive experience.
Top Independent Bookmakers UK
Are you interested in placing bets beyond the limits of UK-licensed websites? Our curated list of independent betting sites UK gives you a place to start. We carefully tested and reviewed various platforms to offer you a list of safe options with a huge offer of betting options.
Checked manually in: September 2024
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How Do Independent Betting Sites Work?
Independent bookies are websites that don’t fall under the jurisdiction of the UKGC as a licensing authority. Since they are not bound by the constraints of regulatory frameworks, they have a greater flexibility to tailor their services to the needs and preferences of their users its a great non Gamstop betting option.
New independent betting sites are somewhat a grey area. They aren’t banned by British laws, so they can easily operate and accept players. Most of them are based offshore, in Costa Rica, Panama, or Curacao. Still, they follow a set of rules by the authority that provided their licence. These are more flexible guidelines, so they can offer better bonuses and a wider selection of markets and games.
How We Rate Independent Bookmakers
Our team conducts daily analyses of every aspect of the customer experience, so we can ensure accurate and reliable ratings of different bookies. Our evaluation process is based on a few factors:
Licence
We start by assessing the licensing credentials of each bookie to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Although independent online bookmakers operate outside UK regulations, they still need a fair framework that guarantees the platform’s security and legitimacy. Most of the online bookies we reviewed hold licenses from:
- MGA or Malta Gaming Authority
- Curacao Gaming Commission
- Kahnawake Gambling Commission license
- Gibraltar Regulatory Authority
Verification
Identity verification is still necessary on international sites, so we make sure the process is safe, simple, and fast. We test the efficiency and reliability of the ID verification process first-hand, so we can offer recommendations or warnings based on the experience we get.
Payment Methods and Process
Independent bookmakers offer a diverse range of convenient banking options. You can deposit and withdraw money with
| Payment Method | Special
Bonuses |
Convenience | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit/Debit Cards | Often available, typically no special bonuses | High convenience, widely accepted | Usually no fees from the betting site, but card issuer may charge |
| PayPal | Some sites offer bonuses for PayPal deposits | Very convenient, fast transactions | No fees from most betting sites, PayPal may charge |
| Skrill | Some sites offer bonuses for Skrill users | High convenience, widely used in betting | Small fees for deposits/withdrawals |
| Neteller | Similar to Skrill, some sites offer bonuses | Convenient, fast transactions | Fees may apply for deposits/withdrawals |
| Bank Transfer | Rarely any special bonuses | Less convenient, slower processing time | Usually no fees from betting sites, bank fees may apply |
| Bitcoin | Some sites offer special bonuses for crypto deposits | Medium convenience, depends on user familiarity with crypto | Typically no fees from betting sites, network fees apply |
| Paysafecard | Some sites offer bonuses for Paysafecard | Convenient, anonymous transactions | Small fees for using Paysafecard |
| EcoPayz | Occasionally, sites offer bonuses for EcoPayz | High convenience, fast transactions | Fees for deposits/withdrawals may apply |
| Apple Pay | Rarely any special bonuses | Very convenient for iOS users | No fees from most betting sites |
| Google Pay | Rarely any special bonuses | Very convenient for Android users | No fees from most betting sites |
Many UK punters use independent bookies because they rely on cryptocurrency for their transactions. That’s the most secure, private, fast, and cost-effective way to place bets online. Some sites offer specific bonuses for cryptocurrency
Bonuses and Promotions
This is the point that attracts UK punters to independent bookmakers the most. We evaluate the bonuses and promotional offers, considering the generosity, terms and conditions, and overall value. These are the most common types of promotions you’ll get:
| Sportsbook | Bonus/Benefit | Name of Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| mystake.com | 100% up to £500 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| rolletto.com | 150% up to £1500 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| Freshbet | 100% up to £500 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| Goldenbet | 100% up to £500 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| JackBit | 100% up to £100 | Sports First Deposit Bonus |
| Gxmble | 200% up to £500 | Sports Sign-Up Bonus |
| Cosmobet | 150% up to £1000 | Sports First Deposit Bonus |
| Rollino | 100% up to £300 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| Donbet | 120% up to £600 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| 20bets | 100% up to £500 | Sports Welcome Bonus |
| Nine Win | 100% up to £100 | Sports First Deposit Bonus |
Odds
We compare the odds from different independent bookies with industry standards. We assess their competitiveness and profitability. Our goal is to recommend the sites that give you the most favourable odds.
| Betting Site | Sport/Event | Type of Bet | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| MyStake.com | Football | Match Winner (Team A vs. Team B) | Team A: 2.15, Draw: 3.30, Team B: 3.05 |
| Rolletto.com | Tennis | Match Winner (Player A vs. Player B) | Player A: 1.85, Player B: 1.95 |
| Freshbet | Basketball | Total Points (Over/Under 210.5) | Over: 1.88, Under: 1.92 |
| Goldenbet | American Football | Spread (Team A -3.5 vs. Team B +3.5) | Team A: 1.94, Team B: 1.96 |
| Velobet | Baseball | Money Line (Team A vs. Team B) | Team A: 1.90, Team B: 2.05 |
| JackBit | Horse Racing | Win (Horse A) | Horse A: 4.60 |
| Seven Casino | Soccer | Both Teams to Score (Yes/No) | Yes: 1.75, No: 2.00 |
| Gxmble | Cricket | Top Batsman (Player A) | Player A: 3.40 |
| Palm Casino | Boxing | Fight Outcome (Win/Draw/Win) | Fighter A: 2.25, Draw: 14.00, Fighter B: 1.80 |
| Cosmobet | Rugby | Match Winner (Team A vs. Team B) | Team A: 1.65, Team B: 2.25 |
| Rollino | Football | Match Winner (Team A vs. Team B) | Team A: 2.10, Draw: 3.25, Team B: 3.15 |
| Donbet | Tennis | Match Winner (Player A vs. Player B) | Player A: 1.90, Player B: 1.90 |
| 20bets | Basketball | Total Points (Over/Under 210.5) | Over: 1.89, Under: 1.91 |
| Nine Win | American Football | Spread (Team A -3.5 vs. Team B +3.5) | Team A: 1.92, Team B: 1.98 |
| JokaBet | Baseball | Money Line (Team A vs. Team B) | Team A: 1.87, Team B: 2.10 |
Customer Feedback
We test different websites from a direct user experience. But what do other users say? When forming our top lists, we consider insights from user reviews and testimonials. Thus, we only recommend the most reputable bookies.
Mobile Version
Some of the best Irish independent bookmakers offer dedicated mobile apps. Even if an app is not available, the website has to be mobile-responsive. You need to access the full offer without any restrictions, and make easy payments and withdrawals from a mobile device.
Customer Support
Our evaluation includes the efficiency of the customer support system. We test and review all communicationmethods available. In addition to email communication, it’s great to have a live chat option as well.
Common Features of Independent Online Bookmakers
If you start using these websites, you’ll notice they are all similar in one way or another. Here are some common features we recognized while exploring the industry:
Diverse Payment Options
Independent betting sites typically include traditional methods (debit cards and bank transfers), as well as eWallets, prepaid cards, and cryptocurrency options. The availability of multiple payment options gives you convenience and flexibility.
Fast and Convenient Withdrawal Procedure
These sites strive to provide a hassle-free withdrawal process. They allow you to use various withdrawal options, with an emphasis on quick and efficient payouts. Withdrawal requests are promptly processed to minimise delays.
| Site | Withdrawal Options | Time | Conditions | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MyStake.com | Bank Transfer, Bitcoin, Skrill | 1-3 days | Account verification | No fees |
| Rolletto.com | Credit/Debit Card, Neteller, PayPal | 2-5 days | Min withdrawal £20 | No fees |
| Freshbet | Bitcoin, Bank Transfer | 1-3 days | Account verification | 1% on Bank Transfer |
| Goldenbet | Skrill, Neteller, PayPal | Instant-24 hrs | Min withdrawal £10 | No fees |
| Velobet | Bank Transfer, Bitcoin | 1-5 days | Account verification | No fees |
| JackBit | Credit/Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller | 2-5 days | Min withdrawal £20 | No fees |
| Seven Casino | Bitcoin, Bank Transfer, Skrill | 1-3 days | Account verification | No fees |
| Gxmble | Neteller, Skrill, PayPal | Instant-24 hrs | Min withdrawal £10 | No fees |
| Palm Casino | Bank Transfer, Bitcoin | 1-3 days | Account verification | 1% on Bank Transfer |
| Cosmobet | Credit/Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller | 2-5 days | Min withdrawal £20 | No fees |
| Rollino | Bitcoin, Bank Transfer | 1-3 days | Account verification | No fees |
| Donbet | Skrill, Neteller, PayPal | Instant-24 hrs | Min withdrawal £10 | No fees |
| 20bets | Bank Transfer, Bitcoin | 1-5 days | Account verification | No fees |
| Nine Win | Credit/Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller | 2-5 days | Min withdrawal £20 | No fees |
| JokaBet | Bitcoin, Bank Transfer | 1-3 days | Account verification | 1% on Bank Transfer |
GamStop Participants Are Allowed to Place Bets
Most independent online bookmakers will accept players who are registered with GamStop; the self-exclusion scheme that helps individuals to control their gambling habits. It’s a useful system, but sometimes participants need to go around it. To support players who want to control their gambling habits, independent bookies offer their own self-exclusion measures
Great Promos for New and Returning Users
All independent bookmakers offer bonuses and promos to attract new customers and reward loyal players. It’s a competitive industry, so new sites offer welcome bonuses, free bets, reload bonuses, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. With these attractive incentives, these sites increase the value of a user’s bets and encourage continued engagement.
| Sportsbook | Bonus | Type | Min. Dep. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Velobet | 150% Bonus up to £1000 | Sport Welcome Bonus | £20 |
| Goldenbet | 100% Bonus up to £500 | Sport Welcome Bonus | £20 |
| MyStake | 150% Bonus up to £500 | Sport Welcome Bonus | £20 |
| Donbet | 120% Bonus up to £600 | Sport Welcome Bonus | £20 |
| Nine Win | 100% Bonus up to £100 | Sport Welcome Bonus | £15 |
High Security
The best independent betting sites prioritise the security of user data and transactions. We only recommend websites that protect sensitive information and address the risk of unauthorised access or fraudulent activities. Although they are not licensed by the UKGC, they are regulated by respectable international authorities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Independent Bookmakers for UK Players
You might be wondering: with UK-licensed bookmakers available, why would you choose independent ones? These platforms offer advantages that make them better for modern bettors. These are the most important benefits we noticed while testing independent online bookmakers:
Advantages
Great selection of payment methods
When compared to UKGC-licensed bookies, independent ones offer a wider array of payment options. Traditional methods like debit cards and bank transfers are available, but you’ll also find many eWallets and cryptocurrency options.
More freedom of choice
Independent bookmakers UK, you get greater freedom to explore betting markets. You can get a more personalised experience. If, for example, you like American football, you’ll find many more betting options on independent sites when compared to UK-licensed online sportsbooks.
Simple and quick verification process
Offshore sites are much more user-friendly and efficient during the ID verification process. You can quickly set up your account, make a deposit and start placing bets. There are no unnecessary delays or complications. Once you need to verify your identity, the best online bookies will get you through the procedure in a few hours.
Superior markets and odds
The competition in this sector is huge. Independent online bookmakers attract users by offering more beneficial odds and higher potential payouts as their selling point. If you decide to use them, you’ll have several websites to compare. Depending on the type of bet you want to place, you can choose the most profitable offer.
Let’s look at the odds for the NBA playoffs as an example. On Mystake, you get 3.15 and 1.35 for the game between Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics. Bet365 offers 1.90 for both teams.
Better promotions
Sports betting bonuses and promotions can be quite lucrative. Independent bookmakers offer generous welcome bonuses, free bets, and loyalty rewards. They will increase the value of your deposit.
As an example, Mystake gives you a 150% deposit match as a welcome bonus up to €300 on your first deposit, and a 100% match up to €1000 on your second deposit.
No tax on winnings
Offshore bookmakers operate under jurisdictions with favourable tax regulations. UK authorities do not impose any taxes on gambling winnings. It doesn’t matter how much you bet and how much you win; you won’t be required to pay taxes.
Players with GamStop restrictions are accepted
This is the most common reason why UK bettors rely on independent betting sites. Those who became part of the GamStop program may change their mind, but the system is very restrictive and doesn’t allow them back to UK-licensed sites. Offshore sites are a great alternative in that case.
Crypto transactions accepted
If you want to use cryptocurrency for placing online bets, you’ll easily find an independent bookie that offers such payment options. You can use Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrency, depending on the specific website.
Disadvantages
Disadvantages of Independent Bookmakers for UK Players
Now that we identified the advantages, you need to consider the negative sides of independent bookies as well. It’s important to mention that the best sportsbooks find ways to mitigate potential drawbacks. But it’s possible to face these issues with some betting platforms:
Unclear rules
Some independent bookmakers may have less transparent rules compared to UK-licensed sites. Unclear terms can lead to confusion or misunderstandings, especially with bonus offers. If you cannot fully understand the terms when reading them, we suggest searching for another betting platform.
No UK licence
Obviously, The UK Gambling Commission hasn’t licensed independent online bookmakers. That may raise questions about regulatory oversight and consumer protections. It’s important to check if your chosen website holds a valid licence from a respected authority.
Issues with player protection
Some international bookies may face challenges in implementing player protection measures in the UK. You may be more exposed to risks of problem gambling, too. Although many independent bookmakers have their own self-exclusion systems, the official UK program is stricter and more standardised.
Lack of effective self-exclusion
Many independent platforms lack a self-exclusion mechanism. They don’t offer the support a player needs to control their gambling habits. We’re talking about limiting the deposits, number, height, and frequency of bets you place.
Not all payment methods are available
PayPal is usually not available on these websites. That may be a problem if you want to use that specific payment method, although you’ll find several other eWallets available.
Non-transparent policy on complaints resolution
If you have a complaint after your experience with a UK-licensed site, you’ll know exactly where to address it: you’ll contact the UK Gambling Commission. But what happens when you use independent online bookmakers? It’s important to find a website with clear terms that cover this issue.
Unclear complaints handling process
The uncertainty leads to dissatisfaction among users seeking resolution for disputes. If you have an issue to solve, the process may result in delays or frustrations. That’s why we recommend reading reviews and using reputable websites.
Tips: How to Avoid Scams with Independent Bookmakers in the UK
The majority of independent bookies are legit and safe to use. Still, you should be aware of potential scams that may arise from time to time. It’s especially important to be careful with new independent betting sites, which still haven’t established a good reputation among users.
These tips will help you avoid scams when using independent betting sites:
- Do Your Research!
Before you sign up with an online sportsbook and make a deposit, research their reputation and track record. You can do that by checking online forums and reputable gambling reviews for insights from other users. A lack of positive feedback or numerous complaints is a warning sign about a potential scam!
- Check the Licence!
Make sure to use independent online bookmakers that are regulated by a reputable authority. Scam sites may not have a proper licence, so they operate without any regulatory oversight.
- Test the Contact Options
The website may brag about its live chat, but does it really work? Check! Use it to see if you can talk to an agent. Ask specific questions to make sure it’s not a bot. We also recommend checking if the website features a physical address and other customer support channels.
- Use a Secure Payment Method
We don’t recommend independent bookmakers that only accept untraceable payment methods. Check if a variety of secure and reputable banking options are available.
- Poor Website Design and Functionality
If you’re checking out a new website and it’s sluggish, it’s a warning sign. Legitimate betting sites invest in professional design and user-friendly interfaces. They are fast and offer a seamless experience on mobile.
- Make Sure You’re Not Getting Any Spam
After signing up for independent betting sites, you may start getting spam emails. Legitimate operators don’t rely on spamming tactics to attract customers. If you’re getting too many messages, we recommend unsubscribing and searching for another option.
Key Things to Remember about Independent Online Bookmakers for UK Players
To sum things up, it’s fair to say that independent bookies and non UK based betting sites are an attractive option for UK punters. The definition is simple: these are websites licensed by foreign authorities, accepting all UK citizens who want to place bets online. They offer a wide range of betting options, payment methods, and promotions. With that, you get better choice and more flexibility. The best part is that cryptocurrency is accepted, and many sites offer special bonuses to punters using it.
But it’s important to conduct thorough research before choosing a platform. Not all independent bookmakers are reliable. Keep in mind that the UKGC won’t be able ot protect you in case you encounter frauds. Read reviews, check the licence, and compare offers to make an informed decision!
FAQ on Independent Bookmakers in the UK
Are independent bookies safe?
Yes, most of them are. We’ve tested several online bookies and recommend only the safe ones. These are the things to check when you want to place bets: a licence issued by a reputable regulatory authority, clear terms and conditions, functional website, and great customer support.
Do independent betting sites have Android and iOS apps?
Some betting sites offer mobile apps for both Android and iOS. But the trends in the industry gravitate towards mobile-responsive websites. You don’t need a dedicated app when you can easily access the website through your mobile browser.
Are independent bookmakers licensed?
They may or may not be licensed, depending on the particular website. It’s crucial to verify the licensing status of any betting site, so you can ensure a secure user experience.
What are the benefits of choosing independent betting sites over UK-licensed ones?
Let’s start with the bonuses: you’ll get plenty of them! Sign-up bonuses may include deposit matches and free bets. Loyalty programs will give you points for every bet you place, so they increase the value of your money on the site.
What’s the best sign-up bonus I can get from independent bookmakers?
The best bonus combines a deposit match and free bets. But the overall value of the bonus is not only about what you get. It’s about the terms associated with the bonus. Check if there are any playthrough requirements. You need to be aware of the terms, and you should only claim an offer if you think they are fair.
Are independent bookmakers UK legal?
Yes. They are not banned by any laws or regulations. They don’t operate with a licence from the UK Gambling Commission, but they are regulated by foreign authorities.
Will I have to pay taxes on the money I win from independent online bookmakers?
No, you won’t. In the UK, gambling winnings aren’t subjected to taxation for players.