Ever thought about diving into the rich world of British shows on Netflix UK, no matter where you are on the globe? The magic key to this world lies in choosing the perfect VPN (virtual private network) service, specifically the best VPN for Netflix UK.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll be your act as your compass on this journey, leading you through the various factors you should consider when selecting the best VPNs for Netflix UK. We'll introduce you to the top VPN services, the best of the best, that have proven their worth in the field, and demonstrate how to set up your VPN for an uninterrupted, high-quality streaming experience.
So, buckle up and get ready as we unlock the doors to an expansive world of British Netflix content, filled with gripping dramas, hilarious comedies, and mind-bending mysteries that await your viewing pleasure. With the best VPN for Netflix at your disposal, the world of British entertainment is at your fingertips.
Key points for watching UK Netflix from anywhere
- Choose a VPN with robust server performance, unblocking capabilities, security, and privacy for an unrestricted streaming experience.
- Based on our test results, the best VPN service for streaming UK Netflix from anywhere in the world is NordVPN. To get the best price, use the 74% off NordVPN coupon.
- Protect your privacy while watching Netflix UK by using a reliable no-logs VPNs that have been audited by third parties (all the ones we recommend in this guide).
For those who are not only interested in Netflix UK, but also wish to access a plethora of British television and radio shows available on BBC iPlayer, check out our guide on the best VPN for BBC iPlayer.
Testing criteria for finding the best VPN to stream UK Netflix
When embarking on a journey to enjoy unrestricted streaming on Netflix UK, choosing the right VPN is critical. But what should you be looking for in the best VPN for Netflix UK? Here's a helpful checklist:
- Servers in the UK – This ensures you can binge-watch your favorite shows without any annoying buffering or lagging issues.
- Unblocking capabilities – This fine feature lets you access content from various regions, so you can explore more than just your local Netflix library.
- Strong security – This feature ensures that your data is protected from potential threats and breaches while you're engrossed in your favorite series. A good VPN should provide robust security measures such as encryption and a kill switch.
- Privacy as a priority – It's crucial that the VPN you choose follows a stringent policy of not keeping any records of your online activities. This way, you can stream content knowing that your digital footprints aren't being tracked or stored, thus maintaining your online privacy.
The best VPN services for British Netflix are optimized for streaming, minimizing latency, and maintaining fast connection speeds. By choosing a VPN with a vast network of servers, you can access various Netflix libraries without the frustration of buffering issues.
Top VPNs for streaming UK Netflix
When choosing a VPN for Netflix UK, ensuring it has robust security and privacy features is imperative. These are the top VPN services for Netflix UK that met all criteria and passed our tests:
- NordVPN – Best overall VPN for streaming UK Netflix with excellent speeds, secure apps, and a large server network that is optimized for streaming (with a 74% off coupon)
- Surfshark – A standout for allowing unlimited device connections, and a champion for user privacy.
- ExpressVPN – A top choice offering high-speed servers and robust privacy protections.
- IPVanish – A solid choice known for its high-speed connections and pocket-friendly plans.
These providers prioritize user security and privacy, ensuring your data remains safe while you're streaming your favorite British shows on Netflix UK.
Moreover, if you're a fan of not just Netflix UK, but also other British TV channels and streaming platforms, we recommend you take a peek at our guide on the best UK VPNs for streaming British TV.
Unlocking British streams: Top VPNs for Netflix UK
Our top picks for effortlessly watching Netflix UK include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and IPVanish. Each of these VPNs brings a unique set of features and benefits to the table, ensuring you can watch Netflix UK shows with ease and enjoyment.
Let's take a closer look at these top-rated VPNs and what they have to offer.
NordVPN – The leading choice for Netflix UK
Website | NordVPN.com |
Based in | Panama |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 74% Off Coupon |
NordVPN stands out on our list as the best VPN for UK Netflix. With a massive network of more than 6,300 servers scattered across 111 locations worldwide, including 440 in the UK, ensures you can easily find a speedy server near you. What's more, all these servers run on RAM-disk mode, so no hard drives are involved – which means no data is stored on any server.
Now, NordVPN is based in Panama (not in the FVEY alliance), which allows it to maintain a strict no-logs policy. It's so serious about this that it's one of the few VPNs that has been independently audited. This is a huge thumbs-up to NordVPN's dedication to user privacy and security.
What's more, NordVPN packs a punch with a suite of advanced privacy features. For instance, it has a Threat Protection feature that effectively blocks ads, trackers, and malware domains (the best VPN with ad blocking). It also offers double-VPN servers that encrypt and route traffic over two different locations for that extra layer of security.
One of the biggest advantages of NordVPN is its adoption of the WireGuard VPN protocol. This protocol gives NordVPN users a significant performance advantage over other VPNs, as you can see in the CyberGhost vs NordVPN comparison. It's not just about lightning-fast speeds, WireGuard also connects quickly, can easily transition between network interfaces, and works much better on mobile devices than legacy VPN protocols.
When it comes to Netflix streaming, particularly for content from the UK, NordVPN is the star of the show. It supports all major Netflix libraries worldwide and offers dedicated apps for all types of streaming devices. Whether you're using a computer, phone, tablet, Android TV box, Smart TV, or even a FireStick, NordVPN has a dedicated app for you.
With its impressive server coverage in the UK, top-of-the-line security features, exceptional unblocking capabilities, and comprehensive device compatibility, NordVPN is undeniably the top choice for accessing Netflix UK. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it out risk-free.
NordVPN offers three different pricing plans depending on your unique needs:
Standard – This package includes the fully-featured VPN service and Threat Protection anti-malware feature.
Plus – This package includes the VPN service as well as NordPass, a secure password manager.
Ultimate – This package provides the VPN service, the password manager, and also NordLocker, a secure cloud storage service.
Now, let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of using NordVPN for Netflix UK:
+ Pros
- User-friendly and reliable apps
- Double VPN andOnion Over VPN servers
- Passed numerous 3rd-party audits
- Strong encryption standards with full support for WireGuard
- Works with Netflix and many streaming sites
- Threat Protection feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Professional 24/7 live chat support
- Consistently fast speeds
- Dedicated RAM-servers with 10 Gbps bandwidth channels
– Cons
- Best discounts only available with 2-year plans
NordVPN's Holiday Deal is live:
Get 74% Off NordVPN with 2-year subscriptions plus 3 extra months:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 30 day money-back guarantee.)
See our NordVPN review for more test results and analysis. The NordVPN Netflix page also has lots of great info on Netflix and streaming.
If you're finding it hard to decide between NordVPN and Surfshark, our detailed NordVPN vs Surfshark comparison guide can help you make an informed choice.
Surfshark – Unlimited simultaneous connections for streaming
Website | Surfshark.com |
Based in | The Netherlands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $1.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 87% Off Coupon |
Surfshark, an affordable yet powerful solution for unlocking Netflix UK, stands out as a fantastic choice. With plans as low as $1.99 per month (when you commit to a two-year plan), Surfshark offers great bang for your buck.
This budget-friendly VPN boasts a network of servers in over 100 countries, including 212 servers across four locations in the UK. This means that you'll have no trouble accessing UK Netflix content. Surfshark also boasts exceptionally fast speeds, as you can see in the Surfshark vs CyberGhost comparison. This means you can wave goodbye to buffering and say hello to smooth streaming.
One of Surfshark's standout features is its unlimited device connections. This means you can enjoy UK Netflix on all your devices at the same time, without any restrictions (a great VPN for multiple devices). No matter your level of tech-savviness, Surfshark's user-friendly apps for all devices and operating systems promise a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Surfshark also features CleanWeb, a built-in tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malware, ensuring a cleaner, safer browsing experience. This is particularly handy when you're streaming content and don't want to be interrupted by annoying ads.
Still unsure? Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test their service without any risk. So, if you're after a VPN that delivers excellent value for money without compromising on quality, Surfshark is a stellar choice for watching Netflix UK content.
Now, we'll examine the advantages and disadvantages of using Surfshark for Netflix UK:
+ Pros
- Unlimited connections
- User-friendly apps for all devices and operating systems
- CleanWeb feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Works great with Netflix and many other streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Strong encryption and security features (audited)
– Cons
- Limited support for VPN routers
- Above average monthly prices
Check out our Surfshark review for more test results and analysis. The Surfshark Netflix guide also goes into more details on streaming and Netflix.
So, if you're finding it hard to decide between ExpressVPN and Surfshark, our detailed ExpressVPN vs Surfshark comparison guide can help you make the right choice.
ExpressVPN – High-speed streaming on Netflix UK
Website | ExpressVPN.com |
Based in | British Virgin Islands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $6.67/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 49% Off Coupon |
ExpressVPN is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to speedy streaming on Netflix UK. It's not just the user-friendly interface and extensive server network that make ExpressVPN stand out – it's the consistently-fast speeds. With fast speeds and reliable apps, ExpressVPN ensures that your streaming experience is as smooth as a hot knife through butter, with zero buffering or lag.
ExpressVPN's extensive server network, which spans a whopping 105 countries, includes ultra-fast UK servers located in London, Docklands, Wembley, East London, and the Midlands. This guarantees that you'll have no trouble accessing the exclusive content on Netflix UK. This UK server network also makes ExpressVPN a great VPN for BBC iPlayer.
But ExpressVPN's capabilities extend beyond just unblocking content. It offers top-tier security features such as robust encryption and leak protection. This means that while you're engrossed in your favorite British shows or movies, you can confidently hide your IP address and ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.
ExpressVPN has passed numerous audits for security and privacy, affirming their commitment to a no-logs VPN policy. Unlike some other top VPNs, ExpressVPN does not support the WireGuard VPN protocol. Instead, they offer their own self-developed Lightway protocol. It's very similar to WireGuard but offers better privacy by default. It has undergone rigorous auditing and is fully open source, further emphasizing ExpressVPN's commitment to user privacy and security.
When it comes to device compatibility, ExpressVPN has got you covered. Whether you're a Windows user, a macOS enthusiast, an iOS fan, or an Android lover, you can unblock Netflix UK on your device of choice without any issues, thanks to ExpressVPN's wide-ranging device compatibility.
If you're unsure whether ExpressVPN is the right fit for you, they offer a standard 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can test out their service risk-free and enjoy the fastest streaming speeds for Netflix UK.
Now, let's delve into the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing ExpressVPN for Netflix UK:
+ Pros
- User-friendly and secure apps
- Split tunneling feature (for macOS, Windows, and routers)
- Works with Netflix and most streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Passed independent third-party audits for security and no-logs
- Very large server network
– Cons
- Above average prices
- Fewer features than other leading VPNs
For more details and in-depth tests, have a look at our extensive ExpressVPN review. The ExpressVPN Netflix page also has more details.
If you're finding it hard to decide between NordVPN and ExpressVPN, our detailed ExpressVPN vs NordVPN comparison guide can help you make the right choice.
IPVanish – A rock-solid choice for Netflix UK streaming
Website | IPVanish.com |
Based in | USA |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.19/mo. |
Support | Email and Chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 83% Off Coupon |
IPVanish, a rising star in the VPN arena, offers an array of features tailored to various user needs. One of its standout features is its exceptional streaming capabilities. In our comprehensive tests, we discovered that IPVanish effortlessly bypasses geo-restrictions, enabling users to access a diverse range of content from different regions. We found that it easily unblocks Netflix UK. It's also a great VPN for Hulu and streaming BBC iPlayer without any hitches.
In terms of security, IPVanish leaves no stone unturned. It employs robust security measures to ensure user data remains private and secure. The VPN utilizes AES-256 encryption and fully supports the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols in its applications. IPVanish also adheres to a strict no-logs policy, which has passed a third-party audit.
IPVanish also incorporates a kill switch feature – a critical security feature that automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leakage. Additionally, IPVanish provides IP and DNS leak protection, further enhancing its security profile. It also includes a “Scramble” protocol that obfuscates VPN traffic, akin to the obfuscation features found with other VPNs.
The VPN apps provided by IPVanish are user-friendly and compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms. Whether you're using Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, IPVanish has you covered. The apps are easy to navigate and offer a seamless user experience, even for VPN newcomers. They also provide advanced settings for experienced users who wish to customize their VPN experience.
Finally, IPVanish offers excellent customer support, including a 24/7 live chat and a 30-day money-back guarantee on yearly and two-year plans.
Pros
Strong security features, multiple VPN protocols, and a kill switch
Extremely fast and reliable connection speeds
Wide range of reliable apps
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Audited, no-logs policy
Ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
Cons
No cryptocurrency payment options
Based in the US (FVEY)
See our IPVanish review for more info and the latest test results, or the IPVanish Netflix guide.
If you're having trouble deciding between our top two recommendations, NordVPN and IPVanish, take a look at our in-depth NordVPN vs IPVanish comparison guide for useful insights.
The moment of truth: Which VPN is best for unblocking Netflix UK?
Among these, NordVPN stands out as the best due to its superior VPN server coverage in the UK, top-of-the-line security features, exceptional unblocking capabilities, and comprehensive device compatibility, making it the top choice for accessing Netflix UK.
If you're interested in accessing content from the USA, check out our guide on the best VPNs for the USA and US IP addresses. Like with unblocking Netflix UK, these VPNs can help you bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy a broader range of content.
How to set up a VPN for Netflix UK
Configuring a VPN for Netflix UK is a simple procedure. To help you get started, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to configure and connect your VPN for a seamless streaming experience.
For this step-by-step guide, we'll use NordVPN as our example, primarily because it's our top recommendation. NordVPN earns this spot due to its superior security features, vast server network, and ultra-fast speeds. Additionally, its commitment to maintaining a strict no-logs policy makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize their online privacy.
1. Get started with your VPN client
First, download and install your chosen VPN client on your device. Once installed, open the VPN client and sign in using your credentials.
We recommend NordVPN as the top choice.
2. Connect to a server in the UK
Within the VPN client, you'll find a list of servers located in various countries. Select and connect to a server located in the UK to access Netflix UK content.
3. Double-check your server connection
Now, just to be on the safe side, connect to a UK server again. This double-check ensures that you're all set to access Netflix UK content.
NordVPN offers a handy little tool that's free for everyone to use. It's their IP address location checker, which double-checks where your IP address is located while you're using the VPN.
4. Log in to Netflix
You're almost there! Now, you just need to log in to Netflix using your account details. Make sure you're logging in to the UK version of Netflix.
5. Sit back, relax, and enjoy
And you're done it., now you can enjoy unlimited access to Netflix UK content. You can now stream your favorite British shows and movies without any restrictions. Aside from UK Netflix, using a premium VPN will also allow you to change your Netflix location to many other regions to unblock content as well.
For more in-depth information on how to bypass geo-restrictions and access blocked content, check out our comprehensive guide on how to unblock websites.
VPN features to enhance your Netflix experience
Here are some VPN features that can enhance your Netflix streaming experience:
Dedicated streaming servers: Purpose-built to offer optimized connections for streaming Netflix content, these servers can bypass restrictions or geo-blocking imposed by Netflix, ensuring a smoother streaming experience.
Split tunneling: This feature allows you to split your internet traffic into two streams. You can choose which traffic should go through the VPN and which should directly go to the internet, improving your streaming experience by bypassing any speed or bandwidth restrictions imposed by the VPN.
Kill switch: A critical security feature that secures your data if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leakage and ensuring your privacy remains protected.
These VPNs will not only unlock a world of riveting British content for you but also ensure your online privacy and security.
For those interested in maximizing their streaming experience and maintaining a balance between local and international content, the use of split tunneling can be a game-changer. To explore this feature more, check out our guide on the best VPNs with split tunneling.
The legal landscape: Is using a VPN with Netflix UK legal?
If you're worrying if it's legal to use a VPN to access Netflix UK, you can put your mind at ease. It's perfectly legal to use a VPN for Netflix UK. However, accessing content from other regions may go against Netflix’s terms of service.
Netflix puts restrictions on VPN usage to protect its contractual rights. You see, licensing agreements mean that certain content can't be available in all regions. To enforce these restrictions, Netflix cleverly analyzes the IP addresses of its users and blocks those using VPNs.
Fortunately, despite these restrictions, VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and IPVanish continue to provide access to Netflix UK and other regions. As long as you choose a reliable VPN with a proven track record of unblocking Netflix content, you can sit back and enjoy your favorite British shows and movies without any legal concerns.
Some VPNs also offer a dedicated IP VPN feature, where you get an IP address that only you use. This may also be useful for unblocking streaming content, but it comes with an added cost as a paid add-on.
Also, while VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and IPVanish offer reliable and secure services, it's essential to be aware that not all VPNs are created equal. Some may not deliver on their promises, and worse, some may even be scams. To ensure you're not falling for one of these, check out our guide on VPN scams you need to avoid.
When Netflix says no: How to overcome VPN blocks and proxy errors?
At times, Netflix might throw a wrench in your streaming plans by blocking your VPN. This can lead to pesky proxy errors and limited access to your favorite UK shows and movies. But don't worry, there are ways to dodge these hurdles and get back to enjoying your Netflix UK content.
One quick fix is to switch servers. If you stumble upon a proxy error, try hopping onto a different VPN server in the UK. This might just be the trick to sidestep the block and get you back into the world of Netflix UK.
Another handy tool in your kit can be specialized technology some VPN providers offer – obfuscation. This clever tech disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for Netflix to spot and block your VPN connection.
Additionally, it's worth noting that clearing your browser's cache and cookies can sometimes resolve these issues. By doing this, you're effectively erasing your browser's memory of past sessions, which could include attempts to access Netflix with a blocked VPN.
And if all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to your VPN provider's customer support. They can guide you in choosing the best server for unblocking Netflix UK and assist you in troubleshooting any problems that come up.
For an added layer of privacy while streaming, consider using one of the secure browser that protect your online privacy.
Best VPNs for Netflix UK FAQ
Which VPNs are reliable for Netflix UK streaming?
When it comes to streaming Netflix UK, we highly recommend NordVPN as your first choice. However, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and IPVanish are also worthy of your consideration as each of these VPNs brings something unique to the table. All of these options are among the best VPNs for Netflix.
Still, NordVPN is a star performer, offering dependable access to Netflix libraries not only in the UK but also in the US, Canada, Japan, and South Korea. Meanwhile, Surfshark is a crowd-pleaser, especially for families or those with multiple devices, thanks to its unlimited device connections and user-friendly apps. On the other hand, ExpressVPN is a speed demon, offering high-speed servers and robust privacy protections for a smooth and secure streaming experience. Lastly, IPVanish is a pocket-friendly solution known for its high-speed connections and competitive pricing, making it a solid choice for streaming Netflix UK content.
Is it worth investing in NordVPN for Netflix UK?
Yes, NordVPN is a top-tier VPN service that offers a wide range of features designed to enhance your Netflix UK streaming experience. With its vast network of servers, including many in the UK, NordVPN ensures reliable and fast connections for smooth, buffer-free streaming.
NordVPN is renowned for its strong security features, strict no-logs policy, and advanced privacy features, making it a great choice for those who value online privacy. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try their service risk-free.
Is it legal to use a VPN with Netflix UK?
Yes, using a VPN to access Netflix UK is legal. However, using it to access content from other regions might not be in line with Netflix's terms of service. So, it's always a smart move to check out Netflix's rules and regulations before you start using a VPN to access its content.
How can I overcome VPN blocks and proxy errors while streaming Netflix UK?
If you encounter VPN blocks or proxy errors while streaming Netflix UK, don't worry. You have several options. You can switch your server, use specialized tools provided by some VPNs, or reach out to your VPN provider's customer support for assistance. These methods can help you bypass the blocks and continue enjoying your favorite Netflix UK content without any interruptions.
Conclusion: Unlocking the Best of British Netflix with a Reliable VPN
Unlocking the full array of Netflix UK's diverse content from any corner of the world is not just a dream, but a reality with the right VPN by your side. By focusing on key aspects such as server performance, unblocking capabilities, security, and privacy, you can select the perfect VPN that matches your unique needs.
In terms of consistently unblocking Netflix UK and also providing you with fast and reliable speeds, NordVPN is the best option. Each one brings its own set of unique features and benefits to the table that enhance your viewing experience.
Moreover, the robust security features of these VPNs not only ensure a secure streaming experience but also protect your online privacy. So, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite British shows and movies without worrying about your digital footprints.
This guide to the best VPNs for Netflix UK was updated on November 27, 2024.
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