The UK attracts many millions of tourists each year. However, many of them might not be aware the country has a rich history of gambling going back many hundreds of years. At various times kings, queens and parliamentarians have tried to outlaw it, but today the regulated and legal business contributes tens of millions of pounds in taxes to the Treasury and employs tens of thousands of people.
In fact, the regulated UK model has been used as somewhat of a blueprint for other online gambling markets globally and the sector is considered one of the most mature in the world. So, if you’re visiting the UK in 2026, what do you need to know about gambling on your trip?
Online Gambling is Well Developed
The UK was one of the first countries in the world to seriously regulate its local online gambling sector, when it introduced the Gambling Act in 2005. Operators serving customers in the UK need a license from the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, which is a globally-respected regulator.
A casino like JackpotCity is a great example of the kind of modern global operator you’ll find in the UK. The game selections, bonus offers and top quality user experience on desktop and mobile, are reflective of the high standards of UKGC-licensed gambling operators.
For visitors, look out for the UKGC symbol when picking a site, to ensure it is locally regulated. While for many years the scene was dominated by big local betting brands, in 2026 large international brands and even American casino giants are increasingly seen serving UK players.
The UK Has a Rich Betting History
Gambling is embedded in British sporting culture and has been for some time. The country has had a large horse racing business going back hundreds of years, and part of the attraction of that particular sport has always been betting.
If you want the most historical betting action in the country consider visiting some truly old racing courses like Chester in the North of England – officially the oldest operating racecourse in the world, dating back to 1539.
Other options include:
- Newmarket Racecourse in Suffolk, near Cambridge, which was established in 1636
- Ascot, just west of London in Berkshire, which was founded in 1711
- Epsom Downs, the closest historic racecourse to central London, opened in the 1850s but with roots going back to the 1600s
As for casino venues, the oldest still operating is London’s Hippodrome, which first opened as a theatre in 1900. The historic building in the West End is as architecturally grand a venue for a casino as anywhere in the world – making for a great solo adventure day out in the heart of London.
The UK Doesn’t Have Casino Resorts as They are Known Globally
Most major cities in the UK will have at least one large casino, with around half a dozen such venues in London. There will also be plenty of gambling shops that have the name “casino” on their frontage – but they aren’t full-scale casinos as most international visitors expect. They’re mostly just full of slots, and there are usually no table games, poker, or even facilities like a bar or a restaurant.
For that kind of gambling you’re limited to the full-scale casinos, which often occupy historic buildings in major cities. Some examples include:
- The Hippodrome, Empire and Victoria casinos in central London
- Genting Resorts World Birmingham
- Bally’s Casino Newcastle (recently purchased by the American gaming brand)
- Genting and Manchester235 in Manchester
Most of the above have large gaming floors with hundreds of slots, and table games like roulette and blackjack, as well as dedicated poker rooms with half a dozen tables.
You won’t find any UK casino resorts on the scale of those in the US or Asia – or even the grand Alpine casinos of continental Europe. However, there are plenty of gambling options with historic charm – and often near to
Local Laws and Regs You Should Be Aware Of
If you’re visiting the UK and you’re planning to gamble on your trip, there are some key things to remember.
The minimum age to gamble in the UK is 18. Have identification with you when visiting a land-based casino property. The UKGC has also been hot on enforcing responsible gambling measures, and so you’ll see a lot of such options prompted for you if you do sign up to a sportsbook or casino while you’re visiting. These can help you limit your spending if you’re on a budget during your trip.
One interesting thing to note is gambling winnings are tax free in the UK. For residents they don’t count towards income tax or capital gains tax, and you won’t be prompted for any tax information if you hit a big win while you’re in the country.
However, you may be liable for taxes in your own country of residence – so make sure to do your own research or seek professional advice before putting down big money.
The UK is not a world gambling destination by any means, but it has a strong history with the business sector and has some world-class casinos and historic horse racing to offer international visitors.
