Novelty Betting in the UK: Compare Top Sites, Markets & Bonuses for 2025

Novelty betting is a popular market in the UK, offering a fun alternative to traditional wagers. From politics to TV shows, there’s a bet for everyone. Our page will help you find the best sites for novelty bets and breaks down the most popular markets, helping you make better choices in this unusual betting niche.

John Kettle Written by John Kettle Betting Expert at bestbettingsites.co.uk
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The Top Novelty Betting Sites
PositionBetting SiteRatingBonusInfoWebsiteT&C’s
15.0/5Bet £20 Get £20 in Free BetsExtensive range of novelty marketsVisit 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 BetsDiverse specials and novelty betsVisit 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.
34.8/5Up to £50 100% Deposit MatchHigh odds and great market varietyVisit Site!Full T&Cs Apply! New bettors; Code SPORT; Wager deposit & bonus 8x; Max qualifying bet stake=initial bonus; Valid 60 days; Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply; T&C apply; 18+
44.7/5Bet £10 Get £20 in Free BetsSpecial focus on weekly accasVisit 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. 
54.6/5Bet £10 Get £30 in Free BetsLeading in specials market varietyVisit Site!Full T&Cs Apply! For new customers at bet365. Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration required. 18+ Begambleaware.org
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Novelty bookmakers chosen by bestbettingsites.co.uk

Our Novelty Site Picks

What is Novelty Betting?

Novelty betting, also known as special bets, involves wagering on non-sporting events. These bets can range from outcomes of TV shows, political elections, award ceremonies, to even the weather. Unlike traditional betting, novelty bets focus on unique and often quirky markets that appeal to a wide audience.

Comparison with Traditional Betting

Traditional betting is usually confined to sports events like football, horse racing, and tennis. In contrast, novelty betting covers a broader range of events. While sports betting relies heavily on statistical analysis and form guides, novelty bets often depend on public opinion and media trends, making them less predictable but highly entertaining.

Popular Types of Novelty Bets

Entertainment Bets

These bets are placed on outcomes related to TV shows, reality competitions, and award ceremonies. For example, you can bet on the winner of “Strictly Come Dancing” or who will be voted off “Love Island” next. These bets are popular because they add an extra layer of excitement for fans of these shows.

Political Bets

Political betting involves wagering on the outcomes of elections and other political events. Common bets include predicting the next Prime Minister, the outcome of a general election, or referendum results. These bets attract punters interested in politics and current affairs.

Weather Bets

Weather betting allows you to place wagers on various weather-related outcomes, such as a white Christmas or the highest temperature recorded in a year. These bets are particularly popular around significant holidays and can be a fun way to engage with something as unpredictable as the weather.

Most Popular Novelty Betting Markets

Find a detailed review of each of the novelty bet markets on our dedicated pages:

How to Place a Novelty Bet

Choose a Betting Site:

Selecting the right site is crucial for a good betting experience. Look for reputable novelty betting sites with a wide range of markets, competitive odds, and good customer reviews. Also, ensure the site is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.

Steps to Place a Bet:

  1. Create an Account: Sign up on your chosen betting site.
  2. Deposit Funds: Add money to your betting account using a preferred payment method.
  3. Navigate to Novelty Betting Section: Find the section dedicated to novelty bets.
  4. Select a Market: Choose the event you want to bet on.
  5. Place Your Bet: Enter your stake and confirm your bet.

Criteria for Selecting Novelty Betting Sites

When evaluating the best betting sites, consider factors such as market variety, odds quality, user experience, and customer support. Additional features like live betting and special promotions can also enhance your betting experience.

Our Recommended Sites

  • CopyBet: Known for a wide range of novelty bets and excellent customer service.
  • Betfred: Offers competitive odds and a user-friendly platform.
  • 10bet: Extensive market coverage and frequent promotions for novelty bets.
  • The Pools: Provides a variety of novelty bets with attractive odds and promotions.
  • Bet365: Features an extensive selection of novelty betting markets and competitive odds.

Strategies for Novelty Betting

Research and Information:

Research is key to making informed novelty bets. Follow news, social media, and expert opinions related to the events you’re betting on. Websites and forums dedicated to specific niches, like TV show fan sites or political blogs, can provide valuable insights.

Betting Responsibly:

Novelty betting should be fun and entertaining. Set a budget and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses, and remember that these bets are often unpredictable. Use tools provided by betting sites, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion options, to manage your betting behaviour.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Novelty Betting

Pros:

  • Entertainment Value: Adds excitement to following your favourite shows or events.
  • Unique Opportunities: Offers betting markets that are not available in traditional sports betting.
  • Potential High Returns: Unpredictable outcomes can lead to high payouts.

Cons:

  • Unpredictability: Results can be harder to predict compared to sports betting.
  • Limited Information: Less statistical data is available for analysis.
  • Risk of Losses: Higher unpredictability can lead to more frequent losses.

Conclusion

Novelty betting is a fun and exciting alternative to traditional sports betting, offering a wide range of unique markets. While it can be unpredictable, it adds an extra layer of excitement to everyday events. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the unexpected.

FAQ

Are Novelty Bets Legal in the UK?

Yes, novelty bets are legal in the UK, provided you place them with a betting site licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.

What are Novelty Bets?

Novelty bets are wagers on non-sporting events such as TV shows, political elections, and even the weather. These bets are popular for their entertainment value and unique markets.