Independent Bookmakers in the UK: Top Online & New Options for 2025

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.

Leon MarshallWritten by Leon Marshall Chief Editor at bestbettingsites.co.uk
Last updated:
The Top Independent Bookmakers
PositionBetting SiteRatingBonusInfoWebsiteT&C’s
15/5Bet £20 Get £20 in Free Bets+ Up to 15% daily profit boostVisit Site!Full T&Cs Apply! New UK customers only. The qualifying bet should be either a Single or Acca (2+ selections) bet, start at £20, have 1.9 or greater odds and must be settled within 7 days of opt-in. The Free bet include: 1 x £20 Free bet any Live or Pre-Match event. Max payout – £500. 7-day expiry. To unlock the offer, complete the first deposit via the banking app secured by Truelayer. Profit boost: One boost per day; claim required. 1 day to claim (by 23:59 UTC+3). Max stake £30. Single bets only. No Free Bets. Profit Boost valid for 24 hrs. Max payout £1,000. Credited within 24 hrs. 18+. GambleAware.org
24.9/5Bet £10 Get £50 in Free BetsStrong specials and odds levelsVisit Site!Full T&Cs apply. New customers only. Register (excl 05/04/25), deposit with 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 exclusions & T&Cs Apply. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply.
34.8/5Bet £10 Get £60 in Bet BonusesOffers over 38 sports for bettingVisit Site!Full T&Cs Apply! Spread betting losses can exceed deposit. 18+ www.gambleaware.org. Place a £10 fixed odds single or £10 each-way bet at minimum odds of 1/2 and get 3 x £10 free fixed odds bets, 3 x £5 Total Goals football spread bets and 3 x £5 Winning Favourites spread bets and a £1 racing Race Index spread bet.
44.7/5Bet £10 Get £20 in Free BetsFocus on accas and promotionsVisit 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. 
54.6/5Up to £25 in Free BetsCompetitive odds across multiple sportsVisit 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.
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Independent bookmakers chosen by bestbettingsites.co.uk

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:

  1. Privately held
  2. Single brand focus (e.g. no other affiliations, such as BetVictor)
  3. 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.