Heads-Up for UK Streaming Service
Before diving into the list of free streaming platforms, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Ads May Be Included – Most free streaming services rely on advertisements to provide content at no cost. Be prepared for ad interruptions.
- Includes US-Based Streaming Platforms – Some services, like Tubi TV and Vudu, originate from the US streaming service but have content available in the UK.
- VPN Might Be Required for Some Platforms – Geo-restrictions apply to certain services, meaning you may need the best free VPN to access them outside the UK.
- No Subscription Fees, But Registration May Be Needed – Some platforms require you to sign up for a free account before accessing content.
- Ad-Supported vs. Free Sections of Paid Platforms – Some services, like Rakuten TV and Vudu, have both free and paid content—ensure you're browsing the free section.
- Regional Content Differences – Even within the UK, certain platforms may offer different content libraries based on location.
- Library Selection Varies – Content availability changes frequently due to licensing agreements, so what’s available today might be gone tomorrow.
- Limited Live TV Options – While services like Pluto TV and Xumo Play offer live TV, most platforms focus on on-demand streaming
These factors will help you choose the best free streaming service for your needs while ensuring a smooth and legal viewing experience.
20 Best Free Streaming Sites in the UK (2025)
1. BBC iPlayer
BBC iPlayer is one of the most popular free streaming platforms in the UK. It offers a vast library of TV shows, live broadcasts, news, and sports content. To access BBC iPlayer, a valid UK TV license is needed.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | TV shows, movies, live sports, news |
| Supported Devices | Smart TVs, mobile, desktop, consoles |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | No |
2. ITVX
ITVX is the free streaming service of ITV, providing access to a variety of dramas, reality shows, and live TV. Users can also upgrade to a premium version for ad-free viewing.
| Feature |
Details |
| Content Type | TV shows, reality, news, sports |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
3. Channel 4 (All 4)
All 4 is Channel 4’s on-demand platform that allows users to stream exclusive shows and movies. It is ad-supported but provides a great variety of content.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | TV series, movies, documentaries |
| Supported Devices | Smart TVs, mobile, desktop |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
4. My5 (Channel 5)
My5 provides access to Channel 5’s top shows, reality TV, and documentaries. The platform is free but requires users to sign in.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | TV shows, reality, entertainment |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
5. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service that offers live TV channels and on-demand content, including movies and series.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Live TV, movies, series |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
6. Rakuten TV (Free Section)
Rakuten TV offers a free section with select movies and TV shows that are supported by ads.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV shows |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
7. Freevee (by Amazon)
Amazon Freevee is an ad-supported streaming service providing access to movies and TV series, available on Fire TV and Amazon Prime Video.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV series |
| Supported Devices | Amazon Fire TV, mobile, desktop |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
8. Plex TV
Plex TV offers free access to hundreds of movies and TV shows without the need for a subscription.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV shows |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
9. UKTV Play
UKTV Play provides free streaming from channels such as Dave, Drama, and Yesterday, offering a mix of classic and original content.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Classic TV shows, dramas, comedies |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
10. Filmzie
Filmzie is an ad-supported streaming service that focuses on indie films and classic movies.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Indie films, classic movies |
| Supported Devices | Mobile, desktop, smart TVs |
| Registration Required | Yes |
| Ads | Yes |
11. Tubi TV
Tubi TV is a popular ad-supported streaming service that provides access to a vast collection of movies and TV shows without requiring a subscription. It offers content from major studios like Paramount, MGM, and Lionsgate. While primarily a US-based service, Tubi has expanded to several regions, including the UK.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV Shows |
| Availability | US, UK, Canada, Australia |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
12. Popcornflix
Popcornflix is a free streaming platform offering a variety of classic movies and TV series. The service is best known for its retro selection, featuring action, comedy, horror, and family-friendly content. While it's available in multiple countries, some regions may require a VPN for access.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Classic Movies, TV Series |
| Availability | UK, US, Canada |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
13. STV Player
STV Player is Scotland’s premier streaming service, offering a mix of Scottish and UK-wide content. It provides access to popular TV shows, dramas, and local news. Some content may be geo-restricted to viewers within Scotland, requiring a VPN for full access in the rest of the UK.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Scottish & UK-wide Content |
| Availability | UK (Scotland Focused) |
| Registration Required | Yes (Free) |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
14. Veoh(Now Closed)
Veoh is a video-sharing platform that hosts a wide collection of classic films and TV shows. It allows users to upload and share content, making it a mix of user-generated and professional media. The service is available globally and doesn’t require registration for streaming.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Classic Films, Series |
| Availability | Global |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | No |
15. Kanopy (Library-Based)
Kanopy is a unique streaming platform that provides free access to high-quality films, documentaries, and educational content. Unlike most services, it requires a library card or university login for access. It’s an excellent choice for film enthusiasts and students looking for thought-provoking content.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Educational Films, Documentaries |
| Availability | UK (Library Membership Required) |
| Registration Required | Yes (Library Account) |
| Ads | No |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
16. YouTube (Free Movies Section)
YouTube offers a dedicated section for free, ad-supported movies and TV shows. The selection changes frequently and includes both classic and modern content. While widely accessible, some titles may be region-locked, requiring a VPN for full access.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Free Movies, TV Shows |
| Availability | Global |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | No |
17. The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel provides free streaming of movies, TV series, and exclusive content. While primarily designed for Roku devices, it can also be accessed via web browsers and mobile apps. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a mix of Hollywood hits and TV shows without a subscription.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV Shows, Exclusive Content |
| Availability | UK, US, Canada |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
18. Crunchyroll (Free Tier)
Crunchyroll is the go-to platform for anime lovers. It offers a free tier with ad-supported access to a vast library of anime series, including popular titles like "Naruto" and "Attack on Titan." While premium plans provide ad-free viewing and simulcasts, the free version still offers a great selection.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Anime |
| Availability | Global |
| Registration Required | Yes (Free Account) |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | No |
19. Vudu (Fandango Free Section)
Vudu is a US-based streaming service that also offers a free section with ad-supported movies and TV shows. While it primarily operates in the US, some free content is accessible in the UK. For full access, a VPN is recommended.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Movies, TV Shows |
| Availability | US, UK (Limited) |
| Registration Required | Yes (Free) |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
20. Xumo Play
Xumo Play is an ad-supported streaming service that provides a mix of live TV channels and on-demand content. It features a variety of genres, from news and sports to movies and entertainment, making it a versatile option for free streaming.
| Feature | Details |
| Content Type | Live TV, On-Demand Movies & Shows |
| Availability | UK, US, Canada |
| Registration Required | No |
| Ads | Yes |
| VPN Required Outside UK | Yes |
Pro Tip: Unblock Free Streaming Sites Safely
While these streaming services are legal, some might be restricted outside the UK. If you travel or live abroad, you can use UFO VPN to bypass geo-blocks and stream your favorite content securely.
UFO VPN is trusted by over 20 million users globally. Get this free Windows VPN; free Mac VPN; free iOS VPN; free Android VPN with one click!
Open the app and choose a streaming-friendly server in the country where your favorite content is available. Tap "Connect" and let the magic happen. UFO VPN has offered 100+ fastest VPN connections to Netlfix VPN server, Disney VPN server, BBC VPN server and more!
Pro Tip
To ensure you have switched to an encrypted IP address, use What Is My IP tool to double check your real-time IP is hidden successfully.
Once connected, refresh your streaming platform and enjoy unrestricted, buffer-free entertainment from anywhere in the world.
Conclusion
Finding high-quality free streaming sites in the UK is easier than ever in 2025. Whether you love movies, TV shows, or sports, there’s a platform for everyone. To access these services from anywhere, UFO VPN is the best tool to ensure a secure and seamless viewing experience. Start streaming for free today and enjoy top-tier entertainment at no cost!
FAQs
1. Are free streaming sites legal in the UK?
Yes, all the platforms listed above are legal. They operate under UK regulations and require ads or licenses to function.
2. Do I need a TV license to stream content?
BBC iPlayer requires a TV license, but most other services do not.
3. Can I use a VPN to access UK streaming services abroad?
Yes! A VPN like UFO VPN allows you to connect to UK servers and watch content from anywhere.
4. Are these streaming sites completely free?
Yes, they are free, but some may require account registration or display ads.
5. What’s the best free streaming service in the UK?
BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4 (All 4) offer some of the best free content.
