5 Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer (Still Working in 2024)
Reading time: 17 min
Updated on February 27, 2024
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Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Lead Cybersecurity Editor
BBC iPlayer is only available in the UK as it has distribution rights within the country. Unless you’re logging in from the UK with a local IP address, you won’t be able to watch any BBC iPlayer TV shows or movies.
However, a VPN can technically change your real IP address to one in the UK even though you’re physically elsewhere. I don’t condone doing this however, because it could be considered copyright infringement. Plus, it’s against the platform’s terms of service.
If you still want to stream BBC iPlayer with a VPN, you’ll find that some simply don’t work. The platform blocks VPNs to protect its licensing agreements. My team in the UK tested dozens of VPNs with their BBC iPlayer accounts and found a few reliable ones. ExpressVPN is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer as it’s very fast and always works with the platform.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in 2024
- ExpressVPN — ExpressVPN is my top pick because every UK server worked with BBC iPlayer and it was fast for streaming.
- CyberGhost — Has servers specially designed for streaming BBC iPlayer (and popular platforms), but long-distance connections can be slow.
- Private Internet Access — Has one of the largest server networks in the UK, but they don’t always work with other streaming platforms reliably.
- NordVPN — Dedicated IP addresses decrease the likelihood of BBC iPlayer denying you access, but it has very few obfuscated servers.
- Surfshark — Reverse Bypasser routes BBC iPlayer traffic through the VPN server while others bypass it, but its monthly subscription is quite costly.
Important! My team and I don’t condone copyright infringement or breaking BBC iPlayer’s terms of service. All the recommended VPNs have strict zero-logs policies so they can’t keep track of or see your online activities, so it’s up to you to use your VPN responsibly and follow all rules and regulations.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Lightning-Fast Speeds for Streaming BBC iPlayer Without Interruptions
Key Features:
- Has 3,000+ servers in more than 105 countries, with 4 reliable locations in the UK to watch BBC iPlayer
- Consistently fast speeds for streaming BBC iPlayer in HD without buffering
- Stream BBC iPlayer on 8 devices simultaneously
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and more
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN has superfast speeds for streaming BBC iPlayer. It delivered excellent speeds on both nearby and distant servers. I averaged more than 300 Mbps, 12 times the amount needed for Ultra HD viewing. This ensures that you can enjoy every second of drama without any buffering or lag spoiling the action.
It has 4 server locations in the UK to watch BBC iPlayer. My team tested its Docklands, London, and Manchester servers and streamed BBC iPlayer for hours without any errors or streaming issues.
ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for streaming in general, too. Not only does it work reliably with BBC iPlayer and other UK channels, it’s one of the best VPNs to watch Netflix US, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and other local platforms.
The proprietary Lightway Protocol ensures that you maintain great speeds but keep a high level of security, unlike many protocols that favor one or the other. Other military-grade security features that come with each server include:
- 256-bit encryption, to ensure your data can’t be deciphered by hackers
- An instant kill switch that cuts your internet connection in the event the VPN fails, maintaining your anonymity
- A strict no-log policy, so none of your browsing or personal data is stored
- Trusted Server Technology means that each of ExpressVPN’s RAM-based servers is wiped clean every day
While ExpressVPN is my go-to VPN, there’s a small catch — its premium price might make some budget-conscious users uncomfortable. But it’s still great value for money, especially if you subscribe to its 2-year + 6 months free plan to save 82% and get all of ExpressVPN’s outstanding features for just $4.99 per month.
All plans are backed by a 30 money-back guarantee so that you can buy ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer in confidence — just claim a full refund if you’re unsatisfied. To test its policy I asked for a refund via the live chat function. The representative didn’t try to make me keep my subscription and processed my refund with no questions asked. I got my money back in just 3 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
ExpressVPN works with: BBC iPlayer, BritBox, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, Showtime, Starz, Crunchyroll, fuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.
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2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers for Lag-Free BBC iPlayer Streaming
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers in over 100 countries, with 750+ UK servers to enjoy BBC iPlayer in seconds
- Fast speeds for streaming BBC iPlayer without buffering
- Stream BBC iPlayer on up to 7 devices at a time
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, browsers, and more
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost has hundreds of UK server locations to watch BBC iPlayer. It has a streaming-optimized server location in the UK specifically designed for BBC iPlayer to make things even easier.
While it’s not as fast as ExpressVPN, throughout my streaming tests, CyberGhost gave me excellent speeds on both nearby and mid-range servers, with average speed drops of just 12%. I tried a number of its UK locations and got speeds of around 90 Mbps. You only need 5 Mbps to stream without lag, so you’ll get uninterrupted BBC iPlayer viewing with this VPN.
You can use CyberGhost on up to 7 devices at a time, letting you watch BBC iPlayer on all your household platforms. I installed it on my Windows PC, laptop, Macbook, Android phone, and iPad to secure myself at home and when I’m connected to public WiFi. During testing, I didn’t encounter any quality drops despite the number of devices I had streaming simultaneously.
One con of CyberGhost is that it offers a shorter refund period on its expensive monthly plan. However, the best discounts and a generous money-back period come with its longer-term plans. I suggest going with the 2-year + 4 months plan because it offers the best discount of 84%. Enjoy the benefits of CyberGhost for just $2.03/month.
Take advantage of CyberGhost’s generous 45-day money-back guarantee on its long-term plans to try it out first before committing. You can get a full refund if you aren’t satisfied. I submitted my refund request via its 24/7 live chat and, after a brief conversation, got my money back in 5 business days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
CyberGhost works with: BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, Canal+, Globo, Crunchyroll, Yle, Foxtel, fuboTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.
3. Private Internet Access — Extensive Server Network to Watch BBC iPlayer Without Slowdowns
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in more than 91 countries, including 3 in the UK
- Great speeds on nearby servers to provide buffer-free BBC iPlayer streaming in HD
- Watch BBC iPlayer on unlimited devices simultaneously
- Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and more
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) has 3 servers in the UK for streaming BBC iPlayer. This is great because if you happen to choose a server that isn’t performing well, you can switch to a different location for seamless BBC iPlayer streaming. I tested its Manchester and Southampton servers, and both of them connected quickly and had steady streams.
Its Next Generation Network provides consistently fast speeds for buffer-free BBC iPlayer streaming. These upgraded servers use 10GB network cards with Gen4 technology, reducing latency. You can even boost your speeds further by going to the “Advanced Settings” area and activating its “Use Small Packets” feature. This cuts down the amount of data being sent through its tunnels, freeing up more speeds for better overall streaming performance.
You can use PIA on up to unlimited devices, and it’s compatible with most operating systems. I found this a valuable feature while traveling as I could connect all my devices (Windows laptop, Macbook, phones, and tablets) to secure my internet traffic from prying eyes when connected to a public network. Like with ExpressVPN, it’s possible to set the VPN up on your router and connect your home network for access on usually incompatible devices, such as smart TVs.
One downside to PIA is that it doesn’t always work with every streaming platform. However, with a tiny bit of troubleshooting, my team and I watched shows on Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Overall, PIA is a well-rounded and budget-friendly VPN. It offers 1-month, 1-year, and 3-year plans. Grab the best discount of 82% on its 2-year + 2 months plan.
If you’re unsure about committing just yet, you can test PIA with BBC iPlayer to your satisfaction with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you aren’t satisfied with its performance, submit a refund request to get your money back. The live chat agent was friendly and helpful and I received my refund after 5 business days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, routers, and more.
PIA works with: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Discovery+, Canal+, Crunchyroll, Yle, Vudu, UKTV, 9Now, CBC, YouTube TV, and more.
4. NordVPN — Premium VPN With Cheap Prices on Long-Term Plans
Key Features:
- Short and long-term subscriptions available
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 6,300+ global servers in 111 countries
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Protect up to 10 devices at once
NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market — and you can get super cheap prices when you sign up for a long-term subscription. One thing to note, however, is that when it’s time to renew your subscription, prices do increase quite significantly.
I was particularly impressed with the high performance of every server I tested. Just because a VPN has thousands of servers doesn’t mean they all work. Servers can still struggle to work — and some can even fail to connect completely. However, NordVPN’s servers work with Netflix for smooth, buffer-free streaming.
I did, however, have issues with using NordVPN’s native Fire TV app. Although it mostly worked with Netflix, it sometimes had issues and kept crashing. I also found that NordVPN’s user interface for desktop devices was less user-friendly than ExpressVPN and CyberGhost.
NordVPN has the following security and privacy features:
- AES 256-bit encryption
- kill switch that cuts your internet access if your connection to a VPN server drops suddenly
- built-in ad and malware blocker, so you don’t need a third-party ad blocker
- fully audited no-logs policy (audited by PwC) – NordVPN doesn’t store any personal or identifying data while you’re connected to the VPN
In addition, NordVPN includes Threat Protection that protects you from viruses, infected websites, and trackers – and it works whenever you have the NordVPN app open, even if you’re not connected to a VPN server.
With plans that cost as little as $2.99 per month, it's easy to find a NordVPN subscription plan that suits your needs. You can also stream, torrent, and browse for free for up to 30 days with its money-back guarantee. I tested this to ensure that you’ll really get your money back. At first, the support team tried to give me an extended trial period — but they initiated my refund right away after I told them I wasn’t interested in the extension. I got my money back in 6 business days.
NordVPN works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, SkyTV, HBO Max, SHOWTIME, DAZN, ESPN, YouTube TV, and more
NordVPN works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Chromebook, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Fire Stick, and Android TV
5. Surfshark — Best Value for Money with Unlimited Device Connections and Fast Speeds
Key Features:
- Short and long-term plans available
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 3,200+ global servers in 100 countries
- No bandwidth restrictions
- Connect unlimited devices at once
Surfshark offers the best value for money out of every premium VPN on the market. You can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription, which means you can use Surfshark on all your devices without getting logged out.
I tested Surfshark’s simultaneous connections on 2 PCs, 2 phones, a Fire Stick 4K, and an iPad. My connection remained reliable on all 6 devices. Even while I was actively streaming on all my devices, my average speed was 112 Mbps — fast enough for UHD quality.
When I saw the price of this service, I thought it couldn’t possibly have top-grade security features for such a low price, but I was pleasantly surprised.
Surfshark has the following security and privacy features:
- AES 256-bit encryption on all devices, with ChaCha encryption available for Android users
- Wireguard VPN protocol enabled by default
- diskless, RAM-only servers to protect your privacy (no data can be physically extracted from any servers)
- kill switch (although this isn’t enabled by default)
- IP and DNS leak protection
Surfshark offers two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account. This feature requires you to enter an extra code before you can log in to ensure that only you can access your account.
While Surfshark does have slightly fewer global servers than rivals such as CyberGhost and PIA, I didn’t experience any issues during my tests. I easily connected fast working servers every time, and I had excellent speeds for streaming, downloading torrents, and browsing the internet.
You can try Surfshark for yourself with the 30-day money-back guarantee. It has plans that cost as little as $1.99. Requesting a refund is easy with Surfshark’s live chat feature. Although the support team asked why I wanted to cancel my subscription, I had no problem getting my money back (and it only took 4 days!).
Surfshark works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Sling TV, Hotstar, HBO Max, DAZN, and more
Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire Stick, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Android TV, Kodi, and selected routers
How to Watch BBC iPlayer With a VPN
- Get a VPN. ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for BBC iPlayer because it achieves fast speeds, so you can stream without delays or buffering.
- Connect to a UK server. Choose one nearest to your physical locatio to get the best speeds and stream quality.
- Start streaming! Log in to your BBC iPlayer account and watch shows without interruption.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer
| Servers in the UK | Lowest Price/month | Device Connections | Average Server Speed | Money-Back Guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | 4 | $4.99 | 8 | 300 Mbps | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | 750 | $2.03 | 7 | 90 Mbps | 45 days |
| PIA | 3 | $2.19 | unlimited | 75 Mbps | 30 days |
| NordVPN | 440 | $2.99 | 10 | 78Mbps | 30 days |
| Surfshark | 360 | $1.99 | unlimited | 66Mbps | 30 days |
What to Do if Your VPN Doesn’t Work With BBC iPlayer
There are several reasons why your VPN might not work with BBC iPlayer. Try these easy fixes to see if you can watch your usual shows in the UK:
- Clear your cookies and cache — Cookies are tiny pieces of information a website stores on your device to retain some information about you, including your device’s past locations. Delete all cookies from your browser in the “Settings – Security” area.
- Contact support — Ask your VPN’s customer support agent which local server is best for BBC iPlayer.
- Change devices — Try accessing BBC iPlayer from a different device.
- Change VPN — Your last option is to switch to a better VPN since many VPNs aren’t consistently reliable. ExpressVPN is my #1 choice because it has great speeds for streaming.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer
While testing the top VPNs in the market, I considered the following aspects when picking out the best 5 VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer.
- Server network — The best VPNs for BBC iPlayer have multiple servers in the UK.
- Speeds — Fast speeds mean no lag or buffering, so you can watch BBC iPlayer without any annoying interruptions.
- Device compatibility — I chose VPNs compatible with major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
- Security — The VPNs on my list use military-grade AES 256-bit encryption standards to keep your internet traffic anonymous at all times.
- Money-back guarantee — I personally tested each VPN’s refund policy and chose the ones that promptly returned my money.
- Customer support — In case you run into any issues, you need a VPN that gives you fast access to a knowledgeable and friendly support team.
VPNs that Don’t Work With BBC iPlayer
Since BBC iPlayer often blocks VPN IP addresses to protect its licensing agreements, not every VPN works with the platform. Below are some VPNs that aren’t reliable for streaming BBC iPlayer:
- UltraVPN — Although it has servers in the UK, UltraVPN doesn’t work with BBC iPlayer. Plus, it doesn’t offer good DNS leak protection. This means your IP address is sometimes exposed, which is not good for privacy.
- Betternet — Betternet doesn’t work with BBC iPlayer. It’s also not a safe VPN because it has inferior security features.
- Mullvad VPN — Although it has many servers in the UK, none of them are good for BBC iPlayer or any other local streaming sites.
FAQs: VPNs and BBC iPlayer
Is it legal to use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer?
Yes, it’s legal, but it’s complicated. Using a VPN may breach BBC iPlayer’s Terms and Conditions. You can use a reliable VPN to stay safe online, but keep in mind that not all VPNs work alongside BBC iPlayer.
It uses advanced anti-VPN detectors to ensure only UK residents can access the platform. The quality VPNs in this article successfully allowed my team to watch their favorite shows on BBC iPlayer for testing purposes, but note that we don’t condone using a VPN in ways that violate a platform’s Terms of Use.
Do I need a TV license to access BBC iPlayer?
Technically, yes. Due to licensing agreements, BBC iPlayer blocks VPN IP addresses to make sure its content is only available in the UK so many VPNs don’t work. But a good VPN works reliably, so you can still watch your favorite soaps safely.
Can I watch BBC iPlayer in the US, Germany, and Australia?
You can technically change your IP address with a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in the US or elsewhere. However, keep in mind that accessing BBC iPlayer from outside the UK violates its terms and conditions, which my team and I don’t condone. Always check a platform’s terms before using a VPN.
Is BBC iPlayer free?
Yes, BBC iPlayer is a free streaming service for UK residents who already pay for a TV license. A reliable VPN like ExpressVPN can technically help you access your account when you travel outside the UK but doing this may violate the platform’s Terms of Service. Be sure to adhere to its rules before using a VPN with it.
Can I watch BBC iPlayer on my Fire Stick, Android, and smart TVs?
Yes — BBC iPlayer works on Fire Stick, Android, and smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Android TVs, Samsung smart TVs, and more. The top VPNs for BBC iPlayer also have extensive device compatibility, so you’re able to stream and keep your devices safe.
How do I stop my ISP from throttling BBC iPlayer?
Is BBC iPlayer available in Ireland?
No, BBC iPlayer isn’t available in Ireland due to broadcasting restrictions. A reliable VPN can technically help you stream BBC iPlayer in Ireland but this is against its terms of use. The geo-block is necessary for BBC to protect its licensing agreements.
What channels can I watch on BBC iPlayer?
You can stream multiple TV channels, recently played movies, and live radio stations on BBC iPlayer. You can also use a reliable VPN to watch these BBC channels safely and privately:
| BBC One | BBC Two | CBBC | BBC Three |
| BBC Four | CBeebies | BBC News | BBC Scotland |
| S4C | BBC Parliament | Radio 4 | BBC Alba |
Can I use a free VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer?
Yes, but I don’t recommend using a free VPN. While there are some safe-to-use and reliable free VPNs, most of them store your logs, have weak privacy policies, or lack a robust server network. Worst of all, some free VPNs even sell your data to third parties to make up for lost fees.
Staying safe is important, and investing in a trustworthy VPN can be a smart choice. Currently, several premium VPN services offer attractive discounts, making them more affordable than you might expect. I recommend ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer. It has superfast speeds, letting you enjoy the latest dramas without interruptions. ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can buy in confidence.
Start Watching BBC iPlayer With a Reliable VPN
Even if a VPN has local servers to stream BBC iPlayer in the UK, there’s no guarantee that it’ll work. This is because the platform actively blocks VPNs to protect its content from being streamed outside the country, which is against the terms of its agreements. However, my UK teammates and I found several VPNs that work well with BBC iPlayer.
Of all the VPNs we’ve tested, I recommend ExpressVPN as it has a huge network of working servers in the UK. Plus its servers were the fastest among the VPNs tested. If you decide to try ExpressVPN with BBC iPlayer, your purchase is backed by a tried and tested 30-day money-back guarantee.
Summary — Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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