4 Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer outside UK in 20244 Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer outside UK in 2024

Last updated: February 2, 2024
William Sams
William Sams
BBC iPlayer works on and off with different VPN services. I last connected on July 2022 from abroad to watch the famous “Peaky Blinders.” I used ExpressVPN to unblock the VoD service!

BBC iPlayer works on and off with different VPN services. Do you want to know which is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK? I recently watched the famous “Peaky Blinders. I used ExpressVPN to unblock the VoD service!

In this guide, I’ll tell you how to watch BBC iPlayer using the best VPN for BBC iPlayer streaming in no time from overseas! As I all know, the BBC iPlayer is a UK-based streaming platform that has imposed geo-restrictions and can only be accessed with a UK IP address.

Moreover, the other 4 best VPN in UK unlock access to well-known streaming sites like US Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN. I highly suggest ExpressVPN as it boasts top-notch speeds, offers various server options, and high-end encryption to keep your real location anonymous.

Want to learn more about the best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK? Keep on reading:


Best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK in 2024: Quick Summary

Here is a quick review for those of you who want to know which VPN works best with BBC iPlayer. My testing revealed that these were the top 4 BBC iPlayer VPNs outside UK. I’ll go through all of them in depth later:

  1. ExpressVPN-Best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK: ExpressVPN offers great security features like a no-logging policy with 8 simultaneous connections for BBC iPlayer. It costs GB£ 5.24 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
  2. Surfshark-Affordable VPN to Unblock BBC iPlayer outside UK: Surfshark is the most affordable VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections to stream BBC iPlayer. It costs around GB£ 1.96 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee.
  3. NordVPNMost Secure VPN to Bypass BBC iPlayer Restrictions outside UK: NordVPN has the most variety of servers to connect to BBC iPlayer. It also offers no logging policy and 6 Simultaneous connections. It costs GB£ 3.13 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.
  4. CyberGhostDedicated servers are available for BBC iPlayer outside UK: It offers a variety of top-notch security features along with a dedicated server for BBC iPlayer; it costs GB£ 1.59 /mo (US$ 2.03 /mo ) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free.

Learn how to stream BBC iPlayer outside UK with a VPN in 5 quick steps. You can also check out the In-depth analysis and answers to FAQs.


Best BBC iPlayer VPN outside UK: Quick Comparison

Following is a quick comparison of the best BBC iPlayer VPNs outside UK:

VPN Providers Ranking Price/month Contract Length Average Speed Compatibility Simultaneous Connections Money-Back Guarantee
ExpressVPN 1st GB£ 5.24 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free Monthly, bi-annual, annual 86+ Mbps Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, Firestick, Xbox, PS4, etc 8 30 days
Surfshark 2nd GB£ 1.96 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee Monthly, bi-annual,2 years 85+ Mbps Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS unlimited 30 days
NordVPN 3rd GB£ 3.13 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend Monthly, yearly,
2 years
85+ Mbps Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Firestick, Kodi, etc 6 30 days
CyberGhost 4th GB£ 1.59 /mo (US$ 2.03 /mo ) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free Monthly, annual,
2 years, 3 years
75+ Mbps Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers 7 45 days

Why Do I Need VPN for BBC Player outside UK?

Due to its regional content limitations, a VPN is crucial to access BBC iPlayer outside UK. The service is exclusively available to users in the United Kingdom. Still, with a VPN, your device can connect to a UK server, effectively disguising your real location with a UK IP address.

This deceives BBC iPlayer into recognizing you as a local user, unlocking its entire content library for you. Moreover, a VPN secures your internet connection through encryption, offering privacy and protection while circumventing geographical barriers. This makes it an excellent solution for streaming BBC iPlayer content globally.


 Best BBC iPlayer VPNs outside UK: In-Depth Analysis

After rigorously testing numerous VPNs, I identified the best options for BBC iPlayer outside UK, focusing on speed, secure servers, and value for money. Our in-depth analysis ensures you get a seamless streaming experience, top-notch security, and the most efficient use of your investment.

1. ExpressVPN: Best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK

ExpressVPN-FI

Key Features

  • Incredibly quick 3000+ servers in 105 countries, with 5 UK servers
  • Offers 8 simultaneous connections
  • Has a MediaStreamer
  • Compatible with devices like Android, iOS, MacOS, Kodi etc
  • Unblocks streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and more

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK and has the most elite performance with incredible features. Offering over 3000+ servers in over 105 countries with 5 UK servers, this VPN service is perfect for an enjoyable streaming experience.

Unblocking Capability

ExpressVPN excels in overcoming geographical restrictions, effortlessly granting access to various channels. It proficiently unblocks major streaming services such as ExpressVPN Netflix in UK, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO, and, notably, BBC iPlayer. My streaming experience with BBC iPlayer using ExpressVPN was exceptionally smooth and satisfying:

expressvpn-unblocking-image-outside-UK

I easily unblocked BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN.

Security and Privacy

ExpressVPN is deeply committed to your security and privacy. Employing a kill switch, a strict no-logging policy, and AES-256 military-grade encryption, it robustly protects your data, making your BBC iPlayer torrenting activities secure and private. Additionally, its adoption of the cutting-edge Lightway protocol ensures exceptionally fast speeds while maintaining stringent security measures.

Speeds

My ExpressVPN speed test in UK showed an 89.42 Mbps (Download) and 84.64 Mbps (Upload) speed. Thus, it ensures swift torrent downloads and smooth uploads. Bufferless streaming for BBC iPlayer.

expressvpn-speed-test-outside-UK

ExpressVPN offers exceptional speed for streaming.

Ease of Use

Setting up and navigating ExpressVPN is straightforward, marking it as the top VPN choice for BBC iPlayer, especially for novices. It provides specialized torrenting support, simplifying secure access to BBC iPlayer. The Media Streamer feature further enables content unblocking on various devices.

Moreover, it’s compatible with various operating systems, including Android, Windows, iOS, Kodi, Firestick, and many others, ensuring versatility across different platforms. It also allows 8 devices to be connected simultaneously, which makes it the best VPN for BBC iPlayer iOS.

Moreover, they have a 24/7 live chat feature to solve your queries anytime or even if you want help to cancel ExpressVPN subscription in UK.

Price

ExpressVPN offers premium protection with a competitive pricing package of GB£ 5.24 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. Their price codes provide various subscription options to suit your needs. Plus, they back their service with a money-back guarantee and an ExpressVPN free trial in UK, so you can test their capabilities risk-free; from my experience, it is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer free trial.

For more, read my complete ExpressVPN review in UK.

Pros
  • Verified “no-logs” policy
  • 3000 servers in 105 countries
  • UK servers unblock BBC iPlayer
  • Multi-logins on 8 devices
  • 30-day refund policy

Cons
  • Prices are a bit too steep


2. Surfshark: Affordable VPN to Unblock BBC iPlayer outside UK

Surfshark-FI

Key Features

  • 3200+ servers in 100 countries including 4 UK servers
  • Offers unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Has a Smart DNS feature
  • Compatible with devices like Android, iOS, MacOS, Kodi etc
  • Unblocks streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and more

Surfshark is an affordable VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK that safeguards your digital adventures and doesn’t have to break the bank. It offers 3200 servers in 100 countries worldwide, including 4 UK servers.

Unblocking Capability

Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature streamlines accessing geo-restricted content, effortlessly unlocking platforms like HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Thanks to its seamless content-unblocking capability, my experience streaming BBC iPlayer with Surfshark outside UK was truly enjoyable:

surfshark-unblocked-bbc-iplayer-outside-UK

I successfully unlocked BBC iPlayer with Surfshark.

Security and Privacy

Surfshark prioritizes your security, employing strong encryption to protect your data while torrenting on BBC iPlayer. It integrates advanced protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and AES-256 to offer rapid speeds alongside robust security. With its stringent no-logging policy and traffic obfuscation, your online actions remain hidden. Adding a kill switch enhances protection, establishing Surfshark as a trustworthy and reliable VPN for BBC iPlayer.

Speeds

With an impressive 81.32 Mbps download and 76.12 Mbps upload speed, you can count on swift torrenting and bufferless BBC iPlayer streaming. The Surfshark speed test in UK shows stable connections further enhance your online experience.

surfshark-speed-test-outside-UK

Surfshark offers high speeds for bufferless streaming.

Ease of Use

Surfshark boasts extensive device compatibility, supporting various platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, Kodi, and even routers. Coupled with its 24/7 customer support, you’re well-assisted at any point in your digital journey. Notably, Surfshark permits unlimited simultaneous connections across multiple devices and is optimally configured for torrenting, ensuring a versatile and user-friendly VPN experience.

Price

Surfshark’s budget-friendly approach makes it a great alternative option for those looking for the best VPN for BBC iPlayer free. It costs GB£ 1.96 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee that fits your budget.

Plus, they stand by their service with a money-back guarantee and Surfshark free trial in UK for risk-free exploration. You can get a refund if you cancel your Surfshark subscription in UK.

Read my Surfshark Review in UK to learn more.

Pros
  • Headquartered in BVI
  • Unlimited multi-logins
  • Zero WebRTC/DNS/IP leaks
  • AES-256-CBC and AES-256-GCM
  • UK servers unblock BBC iPlayer

Cons
  • Smaller server network compared to some competitors


3. NordVPN: Most Secure VPN to Bypass BBC iPlayer Restrictions outside UK

nordvpn-FI

Key Features

  • 6000+ servers in 61 countries with 440+ servers in UK
  • Offers 6 simultaneous connections
  • Has a Smart Play feature
  • Compatible with devices like Android, iOS, MacOS, Kodi etc
  • Unblocks streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and more

NordVPN is the best secure VPN to access with BBC iPlayer outside UK. With over 6000 servers across 61 worldwide, with 440+ servers in the UK, NordVPN BBC iPlayer VPN has been providing exemplary unblocking facilities to users across the globe.

Unblocking Capability

The Smart Play feature effortlessly navigates geo-restrictions, enhancing your streaming experience; you can easily unlock streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more. I got satisfactory results while streaming the BBC iPlayer outside UK with NordVPN:

nordvpn-unblocks-bbc-iplayer-outside-UK

Access BBC iPlayer with NordVPN easily

Security and Privacy

NordVPN is highly regarded for its robust security, setting it apart as the premier VPN for BBC iPlayer. Utilizing AES-256 encryption, it provides military-grade protection that’s exceptionally secure. The NordLynx protocol offers a perfect blend of rapid speeds and uncompromised security.

With a strict no-logs policy, your online activities stay private, while the integrated kill switch adds an extra layer of security.

Speeds

During my NordVPN speed test, it delivered an impressive 83.82 Mbps download and 44.64 Mbps upload speed on a 100 Mbps connection, ensuring swift torrenting and bufferless streaming.

nordvpn-speed-test-outside-UK

NordVPN offers quick speed for streaming BBC iPlayer.

Ease of Use

NordVPN excels in device compatibility, ensuring seamless protection across your devices. It supports various platforms, including Apple TV, Linux, Windows, Roku TV, macOS, and mobile devices. Additionally, NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support, ready to assist with any challenges you might encounter while accessing BBC iPlayer. With robust support for torrenting, NordVPN stands out as a top pick for streaming entertainment.

Price

NordVPN offers competitive pricing with a price code that fits most budgets. You only have to pay GB£ 3.13 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend. Their service has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. Also, get NordVPN free trial before subscription.

Read the detailed NordVPN review in UK!

Pros
  • Based in Panama
  • Double VPN available
  • Onion over VPN available
  • UK Servers unblock BBC iPlayer
  • Over 6000+ servers worldwide

Cons
  • No-Port Forwarding

Get NordVPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK Now30 Days Money Back Guarantee

4. CyberGhost – Dedicated servers for BBC iPlayer outside UK

cyberghost

Key features

  • 7900 servers in 100 countries with 1134 servers in UK
  • Offers 7 simultaneous connections
  • Dedicated servers for streaming
  • Compatible with devices like Android, iOS, MacOS, Kodi etc
  • Unblocks streaming platforms like Disney+, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more

CyberGhost is another reliable VPN with dedicated servers to unblock BBC iPlayer outside UK and deliver fast and high-quality streaming. The method of bypassing the restrictions is quite simple, too. It offers 7900 servers in 100 countries with 1134 servers in the UK.

Unblocking Capability

CyberGhost demonstrates exceptional unblocking capabilities, especially with its smart play feature. It efficiently unlocks streaming platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer outside UK. My experience accessing BBC iPlayer with CyberGhost was remarkable, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable streaming session:

cyberghost-unblocked-bbc-iplayer-outside-UK

Stream BBC iPlayer using CyberGhost

Security and Privacy

CyberGhost is committed to top-tier security, utilizing AES 256-bit encryption coupled with SHA 256 Authentication, creating a formidable defense for your data. The VPN’s strong Wireguared protocols ensure a secure channel for torrenting endeavors.

With CyberGhost’s stringent no-logging policy, your online activities stay confidential. Including CyberGhost kill switch in UK, no- logging policy, alongside WebRTC and IPv6 leak protection, further fortifies your security, ensuring a safe and private experience while streaming on BBC iPlayer.

Speeds

Boasting an impressive download speed of 75.47 Mbps and an upload speed of 69.34 Mbps, CyberGhost ensures swift torrenting and bufferless streaming.

cyber-ghost-speed-test-outside-UK

I was quite impressed by CyberGhost’s speeds.

Ease of Use

CyberGhost boasts extensive device compatibility, including Windows, Android, routers, and iOS, simplifying and securing your digital landscape. Coupled with round-the-clock customer support, help is always readily available. Offering comprehensive support for torrenting, CyberGhost emerges as an outstanding option for those seeking to enhance their BBC iPlayer experience.

Price

CyberGhost’s pricing is competitive, with a price code to accommodate budgets of GB£ 1.59 /mo (US$ 2.03 /mo ) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free. They also offer a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing you a refund if you experience CyberGhost not working in UK; lastly, unlock the speed and security of the CyberGhost free trial.

Read my CyberGhost review in UK for more details.

Pros
  • Dedicated Servers for BBC iPlayer UK
  • Multi-logins on 7 devices
  • Zero WebRTC/DNS/IP leaks
  • 7900 servers in 100 countries
  • Up to 7 simultaneous connections

Cons
  • Basic security features

Get CyberGhost for BBC iPlayer outside UK45 Days Money Back Guarantee

How to choose the Best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK: Methodology

You can unblock this British entertainment service by using reliable VPNs, that too on a budget. I ensured each VPN tested for BBC iPlayer had the capabilities you’d need for quick, dependable access to the website. Consider these factors before choosing the best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK for you.

  • Servers in the UK: A VPN should have reliable UK servers if you want constant access to BBC iPlayer. Even better, it must offer multiple UK connections if one is difficult to use or slow due to congestion. All of the VPNs on this list have a minimum of 5 UK servers respectively.
  • High-Speed: The maximum resolution of BBC iPlayer is 1080HD, which requires download speeds of at least 5 Mbps. I speed-tested each VPN on this list to make sure it can handle HD streaming. You can enjoy unlimited streaming because they all offer limitless data.
  • Device Compatibility: All the VPNs I suggested were compatible with the most widely used platforms, including Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Additionally, I made sure the apps were simple to use and install. Each VPN supports simultaneous use on several devices.
  • Efficient Customer Service: Your VPN should have quick and effective customer care to solve your queries on time. A 24/7 live chat option is much better for getting responses immediately via live chat or email forms. These suggested VPNs offer dependable customer service with prompt responses.
  • Money-back Policy: Any quality VPN includes a money-back guarantee option on their subscription plans for users to try their service capabilities risk-free.

How to Stream BBC iPlayer with a VPN outside UK?

Follow these easy steps, and you will be watching your favorite show on BBC iPlayer outside UK in no time:

  1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN.
  2. Install it on its compatible device.
  3. Connect to the UK servers.
  4. A new Google account should be created with the UK address.
  5. Visit BBC iPlayer and watch any TV show without interruption.
Get The Best VPN For iPlayer outside UK30 Days Money Back Guarantee

How is BBC iPlayer Blocking/Detecting VPN outside UK?

If your VPN is not strong enough to hide your IP address, BBC can detect it and find out your actual location. Some VPNs are successful in masking IPv4, yet they leave IPv6 unmasked, leaking your true IP address.

VPN bans have become a standard industry practice across the streaming domain. Similar bans can be found on sites like Netflix and Hulu. However, you can still bypass these VPN bans outside UK through a powerful service.

Generally, weak VPNs are the most vulnerable to the ban, as they leak your WebRTC/DNS/IP and are not equipped with features like StealthVPN, a.k.a. obfuscation.


How to Fix VPN Problems with BBC iPlayer outside UK?

BBC iplayer not working with VPN outside UK? Below are some quick fixes to solve connectivity issues of VPN with BBC iPlayer:

Fix Your DNS Cache

Have you ever heard of cookies? No, I am not talking about the ones you dip in warm milk. I am referring to the log files stored by your browser, which include important data like your location.

If you have not cleared your cookies, BBC iPlayer will instantly be able to discern that you are using a VPN or proxy. Simply clear the cache and cookies each time you want to unblock the streaming platform.

You can also flush your DNS cache on Windows. Launch “CMD” and run the command “ipconfig /flushdns” by typing it in and pressing enter.

Get a Dedicated IP Address

As I have mentioned here before, iPlayer detects VPNs when there are too many connections being routed through a single server or a group of similar IP addresses.

Acquiring a dedicated IP VPN in UK  will surely help you never face this problem as the iPlayer won’t be singling you out for a suspicious connection ever.

Switch Servers

The best way to get around the iPlayer VPN detection problem is to try switching to a new server down the list. Many top VPNs offer multiple UK servers allowing you to do this quite easily.

ExpressVPN has secure UK servers, so if one is not working, select another from the list. You can also ask your VPN’s live chat support team for their best UK servers to unblock BBC iPlayer, as I did for CyberGhost.

BBC-iPlayer-Got-a-TV-License-outside-UK


FAQs: Best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK

ExpressVPN is recommended as a reliable VPN option that works effectively with BBC iPlayer outside UK. This means that if you are located outside the UK and want to access content by VPN BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN can help you bypass geographical restrictions by providing you with a UK-based IP address.

Yes, you do, but that license will only be available to you if you live inside the UK. The BBC iPlayer sources its finances from TV licensing fees generated in the UK and by selling distribution rights of its programs to third-party buyers/channels.IPlayer has placed a VPN detector tool on its site to prevent users who do not have a license from accessing its service. UK citizens know that in order to access any BBC-related service, they would need a TV license and the best UK VPN for BBC iPlayer to make their anonymity.

Over the years, BBC iPlayer has become more proactive in blocking VPN services outside UK, utilizing active scans, IP blacklisting, advanced tracking, and other tools for identifying VPN traffic. This has resulted in iPlayer’s geographical restrictions becoming extremely tough to bypass. Many VPNs will face trouble with streaming on the VoD, and those issues usually require small tweaks. If you are also facing the issue of BBC iPlayer VPN not working, consider addressing the following concerns:

  • Your VPN is failing at cloaking your IP address successfully. Some services only hide your IPv4 address but forget to offer any security for the IPv6 address.
  • Your VPN may be using virtual servers with poor security protocols that result in the leaking of your real location. Avoid VPNs that use virtual servers to reduce costs.
  • Your device is still displaying your real GPS location. This often happens when connecting from mobile data. There is a chance your GPS conflicts with the virtual server.
  • BBC iPlayer has blacklisted access to the VPN server you are using. This is common for VPN services that have a small server network.
  • Go for a VPN with a huge server list.
  • The cookies stored on your laptop or mobile device are giving away the true location to BBC iPlayer, or your VPN simply lacks the resources to keep up with the geo-blocks.

Similar to other streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Now, and Hotstar, BBC iPlayer utilizes VPN-detection technologies for blocking proxies/VPNs to prevent production houses from losing money!

Not really; you can watch BBC iPlayer outside UK without facing any legal hassles. All you have to do for that is to connect to a UK server on the best VPN to unblock the geo-restricted BBC iPlayer site.

No, it does not cost you to download the BBC iPlayer apps from either the iOS or Android app stores outside UK. However, it is necessary for you to have a subscription to BBC iPlayer to watch all the content available in their app.

Perhaps yes, but a free VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK is typically not the best choice for streaming. The BBC is very diligent in tracking down and restricting VPN-related IP addresses. Free VPNs are the first to lose access since they are so simple to identify this is one of the many reasons for not using free VPNs to watch BBC iPlayer.

You can not watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN if you live outside UK because of geo-restrictions.


Conclusion

In conclusion, for the ultimate BBC iPlayer experience,best VPN for BBC iPlayer outside UK is essential. ExpressVPN stands out with its superior speed, robust security, and exceptional unblocking capabilities, ensuring a seamless and secure streaming experience. Make your choice with confidence and elevate your viewing with ExpressVPN.

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