Independent Bookmakers in the UK: Top Online & New Options for 2024
Last updated: by Leon Marshal
Independent bookmakers play a crucial role in the UK’s betting market, offering unique advantages and personalised services that set them apart from larger, corporate bookmakers.
Written by Leon Marshall Chief Editor at bestbettingsites.co.uk| Position | Betting Site | Rating | Bonus | Info | Website | T&C’s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CopyBet | 5/5 | Get £50 in Free Bets | Great for diverse sports offerings | Visit Site! | Full T&Cs Apply! BET 10 GET 50 offer is available only for the customers who signed up on 01.02.2024 or later. Complete your first deposit using your banking app (Open banking) to unlock the offer. The qualifying bet should be a Single or Acca (2+ selections) bet, start at £10, have 1.9 or higher odds and must be settled within 7 days of sign-up. Each free bet lasts for 7 days. Offer stands for verified UK clients. No Cash-Out. Max payout – £500. |
| 2 | Betfred | 4.9/5 | Get £50 in Free Bets | Strong specials and odds levels | Visit Site! | Full T&Cs apply. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. |
| 3 | Spreadex | 4.8/5 | Up to £30 in Free Bets | Offers over 38 sports for betting | Visit Site! | Full T&Cs Apply! 18+ Get a free £10 fixed odds bet, free £10 spread bet and 30 free spins. Earn an extra free £10 fixed odds bet and 10 free spins each time your team wins! begambleaware.org |
| 4 | The Pools | 4.7/5 | Weekly Acca Free Bet of £10 | Focus on accas and promotions | Visit Site! | Full T&Cs Apply! 18+, UK only. Min odds and selections apply per offer. Cashed out bets and bets on non-runners do not qualify. Free bets are credited at bet settlement and will expire 7 days after being credited. Full terms apply per offer. |
| 5 | BoyleSports | 4.6/5 | Up to £25 in Free Bets | Competitive odds across multiple sports | Visit Site! | Full T&Cs Apply! *18+. UK Customers (Excluding NI) only. Cash stakes only. Min £10 stake required for initial £5 free bet. Min odds ½. Max £25 in free bets. Subsequent free bets equal 50% average of each 3 £5 max qualifying bets. 13 settled bets required to receive full £25 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed on sportsbook within 30 days of opening account. Cashed out bets will not qualify towards your average stake. One free bet offer per customer, household or IP address only. Free bet expires after 7 days. Payment method restrictions apply. |
Our Independent Bookmaker Picks
What Are Independent Bookmakers?
Independent Bookmakers are privately-owned companies that offer sports betting services without affiliations to larger betting groups or white labels. They typically focus on a single brand and operate with full control over their operations. These bookmakers are often known for their unique offerings, personalised customer service, and the ability to cater to niche markets.
For the purpose of this list, they are:
- Privately held
- Single brand focus (e.g. no other affiliations, such as BetVictor)
- Offer online betting
Top UK Independent Bookmakers Reviewed
Several independent bookmakers stand out in the UK market. Here are a few notable ones:
Betfred
One of the UK’s largest independent bookmakers, Betfred offers a wide range of promotions, particularly for horse racing.
Spreadex
Spreadex offers both spread betting and fixed odds betting, catering to a diverse audience.
The Pools
The Pools offers a unique blend of traditional pool betting and modern sports betting options. Known for its football pools, where players can win large sums by predicting the outcomes of matches, The Pools has expanded its offerings to include a comprehensive sportsbook.
BoyleSports
With a strong presence in both the UK and Ireland, BoyleSports is recognised for its extensive live streaming and wide range of sports markets.
New Independent Bookmakers
The UK market has seen the entry of several new independent bookmakers, each bringing something unique to the table:
CopyBet
CopyBet allows users to copy the bets of professional tipsters, providing a unique angle on betting and showing the innovation new players in the industry can bring. We really think they will grow massively in the coming years.
How to Choose an Independent Bookmaker
Choosing an independent bookmaker in the UK should not be too difficult. Follow these steps:
- Licensing and Regulation: Ensure the bookies are fully licensed by the UKGC
- Market Offerings and Odds: Look for a bookmaker that covers your preferred sports and offers competitive odds. Some might only specialise in horse racing, for example.
- Payment Options: Make sure you can deposit using your preferred method. Not all options will be available.
Independent vs Major Bookmakers: Difference?
While independent bookmakers offer personalised services and niche markets, they may lack the extensive promotions and market breadth of major brands. However, they often excel in customer service and unique betting options.
Extra List of UK Independent Bookmakers
Here is an extra list of independent bookmakers in the UK that are mainly land based, but also have an online presence.
- AK Bets – all sports
- Macbet – UK & Irish horse racing
- Ostlers Racing – UK & Irish horse racing
- McCartanbet – UK & Irish horse racing, football & some other sports.
- Star Sports – all sports
- Joe Jennings – all sports
- Goodwin Racing – all sports
- Kalooki Sportsbook – all sports
- DragonBet – Specialise in Welsh sports
- Fafabet – all sports
- Jem Racing – all sports
- Fitzdares – all sports
- Geoff Banks – all sports
Conclusion
Independent bookmakers offer a unique and personalised betting experience in the UK market compared to the major best betting sites. Their focus on niche markets, odds for certain events, and dedicated customer service make them an appealing choice for many bettors. Whether you’re looking for a specific market or a more tailored betting experience, independent bookmakers provide valuable alternatives to the major brands.
FAQ
What Defines an Independent Bookmaker?
An independent bookmaker is defined by its private ownership, lack of affiliations with larger betting groups, and typically single-brand focus. These bookmakers operate autonomously, providing a unique betting experience.
Are Independent Bookmakers Safe to Use?
Yes, as long as they are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. This ensures they adhere to strict regulatory standards, providing a safe betting environment.
Can Independent Bookmakers Offer Better Odds?
Probably not. In all honesty, they will probably offer something like 2/1 instead of 9/4. But you don't use independent bookies for their odds.
How Do Independent Bookmakers Differ from Major Brands?
Independent bookmakers differ from major brands in their personalised service, niche market offerings, and flexible operations. They may lack the extensive promotions and market coverage of larger brands but make up for it with unique features and customer-centric approaches.