UK punters have been trying to enhance their overall betting experience and place their wagers without restrictions on their favourite sports. That’s where European betting sites come into the picture. These non Gamstop bookies allow UK players to enjoy betting without worrying about strict limitations. Despite their name, they don’t have to be based in Europe. However, they are fully focused on the European betting market and include all the most popular European sports.
More and more UK players turn to European bookies as they’re fed up with the restrictions imposed by the Gambling Commission on British licensees. Bigger bonuses, a relaxed KYC process, higher winning limits, the possibility of using credit cards, and even crypto make European bookmakers a very attractive destination. Plus, players can enjoy placing bets on European sports and leagues and enjoy a broader range of available markets.
Safest European Bookmakers for UK Players
How we choose the Top 10 European Bookmakers
When reviewing independent bookies, we do our best to deliver only high-quality content. That’s why we adhere to particular rules to provide helpful information to our readers. We rank the best European betting sites after thoroughly researching and testing each one of them. Continue reading to learn how we rate the best bookies in the EU.
➤ Licensing & Legitimacy
European bookies hold licenses issued by some of the most reputable jurisdictions in Europe, such as Malta, Alderney and the Isle of Man. These sports betting sites have also undergone third-party audits from the likes of eCogra, iTech Labs and GLI. They use the latest technology to ensure their reliability.
➤ Number of available Sports
The best European bookmakers boast a wide range of sports to bet on. The offering of sports is through the roof, giving bettors plenty of options to choose from. Typically, they will be able to choose among 30+ sports to wager on, from football betting to rugby, which should be more than enough to satisfy their sports betting needs.
➤ Odds & Offered Betting Markets
In addition to a broad selection of sports, leading European bookies offer the best odds and plenty of markets. For instance, at the best European betting sites, players can enjoy more than 300 markets on fixtures of big competitions, like the UEFA Champions League, choosing anything from totals to corners and cards.
➤ Number of available Payment Methods
Unlike UK-licensed sports betting sites with limited payment options, European betting companies allow players to use various banking methods for their transactions. Apart from the traditional ones, such as Visa, Mastercard, Neteller and Skrill, they can use credit cards and even cryptocurrencies.
New European Bookmakers
More and more bookmakers are entering the European market. This gives bettors plenty of choices when it comes to placing their bets. They are covered if they’re looking for additional sports or wondering how to get off Gamstop. So here are the top among the newest European bookies.
Goldenbet Bookmaker – European Betting
Established in 2022, Goldenbet is a sports betting site operating under a Curacao license. Although it’s a new addition, it has quickly become one of the best European betting sites since it is very popular among bettors in Europe. Players from the UK who wish to bet without any restrictions can join Goldenbet. In addition to being a non Gamstop site, it offers more than 40 sports to pick from and over 75,000 pre-match markets in total. But that’s not all, as the bookie accepts credit/debit cards for online transactions. Goldenbet sportsbook also includes attractive bonuses and promotions.
Lucky Barry Bookie – Euro Sports Betting
Lucky Barry is one of the top-rated European betting sites. Owned by Cerberlot N.V., the site was launched in 2022. It has become a popular destination for UK bettors, allowing hassle-free KYC procedures. It comes in handy for all who want to escape the grid of Gamstop. New players can look forward to a 100% bonus to help them boost their balance. Another exciting part of this package is the multi-bet cashback. Lucky Barry sportsbook offers more than 38 sports, including football, basketball, racing, tennis and hockey, while each even packs a wide range of betting options.
Mr Sloty Betting Site – European Sports
Mr Sloty was launched in 2021, attracting UK players right from the start. This Curacao-licensed bookie offers over 200 pre-match football markets, excellent odds and even accepts payments in cryptocurrencies. No wonder many bettors regard it as the best betting site in Europe. Since the UKGC doesn’t regulate Mr Sloty bookmaker, any previous Gamstop exclusions don’t apply to the bookmaker, while players can bet with their credit cards. In addition to all of that, there’s a neat welcome bonus waiting for new bettors. The list of available sports includes over thirty options, including football, basketball, horse racing and tennis. This is why it’s one of the best European betting sites
Mystake Sportsbook – European Betting Operator
Mystake bookie entered the market in 2020, holding a licence issued in Curacao. Since it’s not regulated by the UKGC, the bookmaker immediately drew the attention of UK players, allowing them to play without the regulator’s limitations. The bookie proudly offers over 400 football markets on average and excellent odds and accepts credit cards and cryptocurrencies. There’s also a great welcome bonus waiting for players who open a new account. Mystake also includes the most popular European football competitions, including the English Premier League, the Champions League and La Liga. If you’re into basketball, there’s the Euroleague, while tennis lovers can enjoy Grand Slam tournaments.
Freshbet Sports Betting – European Brand
Freshbet sports betting site was launched in 2021. Owned by Ryker B.V., the bookie has a Curacao license, but most importantly, it’s not regulated by the UKGC. As with other European betting sites, it means that Gamstop doesn’t apply to it, nor does it include any of the regulator’s restrictions. Players can look forward to popular European sports, including football, basketball, and tennis. Freshbet sportsbook also uses the Inplaynet betting platform, offering bettors a mobile version, powerful analytics and multilingual support. It’s an excellent place for UK players, who can pay using their credit cards and enjoy an unrestricted betting experience.
EU Bookmakers: Complete Overview
Players are welcomed at most European betting sites, including the top-ranked ones. With so many excellent bookies on offer, selecting only one can be difficult. We advise you to choose carefully, and the best way to do so is to learn some essential info about European bookmakers.
| European Bookies Highlights | |
|---|---|
| 📌 Best European Bookie | Goldenbet |
| 📌 Top Welcome Bonus | Mr Sloty |
| 📌 Most Payment Methods | Mystake |
| 📌 Most Available Markets | 220+ |
| 📌 Different Sports | 60+ |
| 📌 Average Payout | 95% |
| 📌 Betting Features | Cash Out, Live Betting |
Pros of Bookmakers Europe
The best European betting sites offer plenty of benefits. Whether you want to learn how to get past Gamstop or enjoy more bonuses, it doesn’t matter; they got you covered.
⚡ Not registered on Gamstop
You registered with Gamstop, but now you’ve changed your mind? No problem, since European betting sites are not part of the exclusion scheme, meaning you can place your bets without any restrictions. Even with gambling blockers installed, you’ll be able to bet on European bookies, as these sites are not in the scheme’s database.
⚡ Great variety of European Sports
The UK bettors who enjoy European competitions and events will have plenty of choices. In addition to the standard offering of markets and international leagues, these punters will be able to wager on European cricket, basketball, volleyball, tennis and other options.
⚡ Plenty of Sports Bonuses & Freebets
The best European betting sites boast great bonuses. They offer a 100% and 200% match deposit bonus, allowing punters to claim their winnings immediately. There are also plenty of other bonuses featuring reasonable wagering requirements. Overall, European betting sites offer more promotions compared to their UK counterparts. Acca bonuses and free bets are often part of the deal.
⚡ Swift & Neat Verification Process
KYC procedures can often be tiresome and time-consuming. If you choose to join a European betting site, you won’t have to provide your personal information before the first withdrawal. Overall, the registration process is much more straightforward and even more manageable. Strict verification rules imposed by the UKGC don’t affect bookies in Europe, meaning that betting without verification can happen.
⚡ Cryptocurrencies & Credit Cards available
Another benefit of European betting sites is the availability of a wide range of payment methods. Players can use credit cards, cryptocurrencies and other payment services that are not allowed in the UK. The use of credit cards for betting has been banned in Great Britain since 2020, while no UK-regulated betting site offers crypto as a payment method.
Disadvantages of European betting companies
European bookies offer many benefits, but unfortunately, they have certain drawbacks. Let’s take some time to check out the disadvantages players may face.
❌ Not supported by the UKGC
The first thing UK players need to be aware of is that the United Kingdom Gambling Commission does not regulate European sports betting sites. In most cases, they operate under a Curacao license. Although this is a reputable license, it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as the UKGC one does.
❌ Not many currencies, including GBP
Apart from the Euro, the best European betting sites don’t always allow bettors to deposit in GBP and other currencies. If that’s the case, currency exchange fees can be a real headache. This can significantly impact the overall experience.
❌ Limited Withdrawal Options
Despite being fast when it comes to withdrawal speed, European bookmakers have somewhat limited options when compared to their UK-based counterparts. Before wagering their money, players should check the available options for withdrawing funds. Otherwise, they may find themselves in a pickle later.
Top Alternatives to Euro Sports Betting Sites
If you’re looking for the best alternatives to European bookies, here are some options to consider. They offer plenty of possibilities to those looking to make the most of their experience.
➤ Curacao Bookmakers
Betting with Curacao bookies provides many advantages to UK players, allowing them to escape the restrictions imposed by the UKGC. Bettors can look forward to an easy verification process, quick withdrawals, credit card and crypto payments, anonymous betting, no tax on winnings and no Gamstop restrictions.
➤ International Bookies
International bookmakers represent an excellent alternative to European betting sites. They also offer loads of benefits, such as relaxed KYC procedures, high odds, no tax on winnings, fast withdrawals and the use of credit cards & cryptocurrencies. Above all, these sites are completely safe.
Yes, they are. Most European betting sites are licensed by reputable authorities and are completely reliable. You won't have to think about the safety of your personal information and banking details as long as you use trustworthy sites. Read our reviews and check what other bettors say before choosing your bookmaker.
In most cases, you'll be able to use GBP. The majority of European betting sites accept UK players, meaning they also accept British pounds. Unfortunately, some don't. So, be sure to read the Terms & Conditions before depositing.
As we mentioned, most European bookmakers welcome players from the UK and offer many more options when compared to UKGC-licensed bookies. Betting sites in the EU don't have complex KYC procedures and verification, primarily focusing on the satisfaction of their players.
No matter whether you simply like to wager on sports from time to time or you're a regular type of player, European betting sites got you covered. They offer a wide range of sports, like football, basketball, volleyball and tennis. With such a variety of sports available, you'll indeed find something that suits your betting taste.
Typically, European bookmakers display odds in decimal format. But the good news is there's an option to switch between fractional and American odds too. In some cases, players will be able to set their odds in Hong Kong, Indonesian, and even Malay formats.
