The best BBC iPlayer VPN 2024

BBC iPlayer on a mobile phone with British content on a TV in the background
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you want to watch the best of British television, the BBC is the place to be. With a tried and tested iPlayer VPN, you'll be able to stream everything – from your favorite shows to the latest music and sports events.

We've tested and retested the best VPN services to see which ones unblock BBC iPlayer consistently and weed out the ones that aren't worth your time. In this guide, I'll give you quick recommendations and in-depth streaming VPN analysis to show you which ones are best for iPlayer.

Keep scrolling to see how you can watch UK TV from abroad in just a few clicks, and how each of the best VPNs for iPlayer stack up against one another.

5 best iPlayer VPNs: quick overview

Just want to get up and running? Here's a quick glance at the top BBC iPlayer VPNs.

1. NordVPN - from $3.09 per monthThe best VPN for iPlayer

1. NordVPN - from $3.09 per month
The best VPN for iPlayer
NordVPN is the real deal when it comes to unblocking BBC iPlayer (and other streaming apps). It's a speedy service that'll keep up with your HD marathons of the best of British TV, as well as any online gaming or torrenting you get up to. Plus, its handy TV apps make it even easier to stream iPlayer directly from your smart TV. NordVPN is compatible with pretty much every device and gadget out there, and all of its apps are user-friendly, stuffed with privacy features, and downloads in a blink. See for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. ExpressVPN - from $6.67 per monthThe best VPN for beginners

2. ExpressVPN - from $6.67 per month
The best VPN for beginners
ExpressVPN reliably unblocks BBC iPlayer – as well as Netflix libraries from around the world and all sorts of regional services. Basically, don't expect to run out of shows and movies to watch with an ExpressVPN subscription. The service is a luxe provider with sleek apps for all your devices. Plus, with regular audits of its no-logs policy, you can rest assured that your personal data is in good hands. ExpressVPN is a pricey pick, there's no denying it, but you can take it for a risk-free trial with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. Surfshark - from $2.19 per monthThe best cheap iPlayer VPN

3. Surfshark - from $2.19 per month
The best cheap iPlayer VPN
Surfshark is a bargain provider that doesn't skimp when it comes to unblocking power. It works with BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more Netflix libraries than you can shake a stick at, and it's currently the fastest service we've tested in our in-house trials. So, that means you can enjoy HD streams without annoying buffering interruptions. Surfshark also gives users unlimited simultaneous connections to enjoy – which is awesome value for money and allows you to protect each and every device in the home. Check it out with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. Proton VPN- from $4.49 per monthThe best free iPlayer VPN

4. Proton VPN - from $4.49 per month
The best free iPlayer VPN
Proton VPN is an industry veteran that knows how to have fun. Its premium plan has no trouble unblocking BBC iPlayer, meaning you won't miss out on UK programming if you're abroad on holiday (or for work). Few providers can match Proton VPN when it comes to sheer commitment to user privacy, however. It sticks to an audited no-logs policy, has super-secure servers based in privacy havens, and can even mask the fact that you're using a VPN in the first place. Try this privacy purist's dream with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. CyberGhost - from $2.19 per monthThe best mid-range VPN

5. CyberGhost - from $2.19 per month
The best mid-range VPN
CyberGhost makes a splash with dedicated streaming servers designed to make your life that much easier when it's time to settle down with some iPlayer content. I especially like how newbie-friendly its apps are (and their adorable mascot), so if you've never touched a VPN before, CyberGhost is a great place to start. Plus, with nifty security tools, your day-to-day browsing sessions will be safe from third-party snoopers sniffing after your personal data. Be sure to put CyberGhost's generous 45-day money-back guarantee to good use.

Recent updates

We've overhauled this guide to make it simpler, clearer, and more helpful – highlighting all of the upcoming events that you can stream on BBC iPlayer. If you want to check out our latest VPN test results and see how each of our top picks did in greater detail, we'll show you all the data from the hundreds of tests we do for the top VPNs.

The best BBC iPlayer VPNs in 2024 – in-depth reviews

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Here's how my top iPlayer VPN picks compare, as well as each VPN's key features, test results, what I liked best about each service, and any reasons you might be better off avoiding them.

The best iPlayer VPN overall

(Image credit: Future)

1. NordVPN

Unblocking power that just can't be beat

Unblocks BBC iPlayer: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | UK servers:: 440+ | Also unlocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, ITVX, All 4, 9Now, 10Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: 10

The fastest VPN on the market
Fully audited no-log claims
24/7 live chat support
Free Meshnet functionality
Unblocks BBC iPlayer and UK Netflix
Map interface can be fiddly
Fewer server locations than ExpressVPN

NordVPN continues to lead the way in our VPN testing – though, to be fair, the VPN always impresses. It currently sits at the top of our overall VPN rankings, offering an awesome mix of unblocking power, speed, and security.

Unblocking BBC iPlayer is quick and easy with NordVPN. It doesn't quite have the best apps on the block (those belong to Surfshark), but it's a reliable all-rounder that will suit most users.

Streaming and unblocking

I had no trouble unblocking BBC iPlayer with NordVPN's help (and its sleek and stylish apps), and getting set up only takes a second. So, you'll spend less time scrolling through settings and more time catching up on your favorite British content.

That's not all, though – NordVPN has no trouble unblocking Disney Plus and Prime Video. Where Netflix is concerned, I think NordVPN is one of the best Netflix VPNs out there, reliably unblocking catalogs in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. NordVPN could even provide a solution to the Netflix password-sharing ban.

Expert Verdict: NordVPN
River Hart Tech Software Editor
Expert Verdict: NordVPN
River Hart

NordVPN is an awesome all-rounder that won't break the bank. You'll get access to BBC iPlayer, as well as a ton of Netflix libraries, and lightning-fast speeds that'll ensure your streams are HD and buffer-free. NordVPN will be a fantastic pick for most people who want solid protection for their everyday browsing.

★★★★½

Read more: NordVPN review

Swipe to scroll horizontally
NordVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA fun and fresh design that can feel a little busy⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useIntuitive apps for all devices, although the map interface could be easier to use⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceAmong the fastest VPNs available, especially using WireGuard.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and a ton of British staples⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyBuilt-in antivirus, a kill switch, and reliable leak protection⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportLive chat is ready to help tackle questions and concerns⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceFair prices and excellent value⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best VPN for beginners

ExpressVPN on PC and Windows 10 devices

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

2. ExpressVPN

Easy-to-use apps and speeds that don't disappoint

Unblocks BBC iPlayer: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | UK servers:: Docklands, East London, London, Wembley | Also unlocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, ITVX, All 4, 9Now, 10Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: 8

Apps are well-designed and intuitive
Servers in more than 105 countries
Unblocks tons of content
Great 24/7 tech support
Super simple to use
On the pricey side
Not as fast as NordVPN

ExpressVPN is one of my go-to services for unlocking streaming content – and it's particularly adept at accessing goodies on BBC iPlayer. I didn't run into any hiccups during my testing, and I'm confident that total VPN newbies will have an easy time of it, too.

There are more than 3,000 servers to choose from, scattered across 106 countries, and a decent selection of UK locations in London, the Docklands, and the Midlands. These UK servers come in handy for unblocking BBC iPlayer and other British on-demand platforms, like ITVX and All 4.

Now to address the elephant in the room: ExpressVPN is a pricey provider, but it's partially justified by the sheer quality of the ExpressVPN package. Its apps are stellar, the security offerings are top-notch, and customer support always has your back. However, you might want to check out Surfshark if you're looking for a bargain.

I also have to commend ExpressVPN for consistently proving its commitment to privacy with regular audits and a no-logs policy. In fact, no other VPN provider has undergone more third-party examinations than ExpressVPN.

Streaming, unblocking, and speed

Whether it's BBC iPlayer, Netflix, or Amazon Prime, ExpressVPN has no trouble unblocking your favorite shows. During my tests, I was able to access a huge library of content without any roadblocks. The VPN also claims to unblock other Brit favorites, including BT Sports and Now, and international staples like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

Admittedly, ExpressVPN isn't the fastest service on my shortlist – that honor goes to Surfshark. That doesn't mean ExpressVPN moves at a snail's pace, even if its speeds have dropped again to 396 Mbps. These results place it somewhat below average for performance, but you'll still easily be able to stream, torrent, and game online.

Expert Verdict: ExpressVPN
River Hart Tech Software Editor
Expert Verdict: ExpressVPN
River Hart

ExpressVPN is the total package, with sleek, stylish apps for all your devices and tons of security tools. Plus, the VPN can unblock virtually all in-demand streaming services, including BBC iPlayer. The ExpressVPN price point is on the steeper side, that's undeniable, but you're getting a premium provider stuffed with features. 

★★★★½

Read more: ExpressVPN review

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ExpressVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA stylish (and clutter-free) design that stands out from its competitors⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNewbies and VPN veterans will have no trouble tweaking settings or finding UK servers⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceNot the quickest VPN, but still ideal for 4K streaming⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks BBC iPlayer and other UK staples⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyTop-notch encryption and an audited no-logs policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support24/7 live chat support can handle even the most techy questions⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceOn the expensive side, but the quality speaks for itself⭐⭐⭐

The best cheap iPlayer VPN

Surfshark interface across devices

(Image credit: Future)

3. Surfshark

Budget-friendly and fully featured

Unblocks BBC iPlayer: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | UK servers: London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester | Also unlocks: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, ITVX, All 4, 9Now, 10Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited

Low prices packed with value
A huge network of servers
Impressive speeds
Unblocks all streaming platforms
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Windows kill switch issues
Virtual server locations could be clearer

Don’t be fooled by the dirt cheap price – Surfshark is one of my favorite providers and has just as much to offer as many of its pricier rivals.

Surfshark knocks it out of the park when it comes to unblocking BBC iPlayer. I didn’t experience any issues during my testing which is thanks, in part, to the massive network of available servers.

You'll also get a full toolkit of security features, well above-average speeds (in fact, it's one of the fastest), and unlimited simultaneous connections to play with, which is some serious value for money.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a bargain (and don’t want to sacrifice your privacy in the process) remember that Surfshark is the best cheap VPN out there, and manages to cram a ton of features into low-cost subscriptions.

Streaming, unblocking, and speed

Surfshark excels when it comes to unblocking streaming platforms – and with more than 3,200 servers spread over 100 countries, it's easy to see why. You'll have reliable access to UK staples like BBC iPlayer, as well as Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu. Basically, you'll never run out of box sets and movies.

The sheer speed of Surfshark makes it a perfect streaming companion, too. It soared to the top of our latest testing results, hitting peaks of 950 Mbps, making it the fastest VPN around. In short? With Surfshark in your arsenal, you probably won't even notice you're connected to a VPN, even when streaming in 4K.

Expert Verdict: Surfshark
River Hart Tech Software Editor
Expert Verdict: Surfshark
River Hart

Surfshark always manages to blow me away with just how affordable it is – and how much you get in exchange for a minuscule monthly fee. It's a great companion for avid streamers, and its speeds make online gaming and video calls nice and easy, too. 

★★★★½

Read more: Surfshark review

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Surfshark test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignSimple and straightforward⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useAll features are clearly signposted⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceA super-fast service ideal for streaming in HD⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks pretty much all platforms in the UK and beyond⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyFull of features, including a kill switch and ad-blocking⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportLive chat support is quick and resourceful⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceAn affordable option packed with value⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Other VPNs I've tested and recommend

Proton VPN across devices including desktop and smartphone

(Image credit: Proton VPN)

4. Proton VPN

A speedy, and secure, unblocking machine

Unblocks BBC iPlayer: Yes | 24/7 customer support: No | Money back guarantee: 30 days pro rata | UK servers: London, Manchester | Also unlocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, ITVX, All 4, 9Now, 10Play | Streaming devices: Chromecast, Android TV | Maximum devices supported: 10

Super secure and open-source
Fast WireGuard speeds mean less buffering
Unblocks top streaming platforms
Great mobile apps
Free plan with unlimited bandwidth
Not compatible with Apple TV
Other providers are cheaper
Free plan can't unblock iPlayer

Whether it’s a journey through time and space with the Time Lord in Doctor Who or strutting on the mainstage of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, Proton VPN makes light work of unblocking BBC iPlayer's extensive library no matter where you find yourself.

There are 36 handy UK servers to choose from in Proton VPN's arsenal, so you'll have easy access to BBC iPlayer even if it has been blocked by your school, workplace, or network admin.

Proton VPN is well known for its proactive approach to defending user privacy, too, offering a cutting-edge bevy of tools designed to protect your digital freedoms. This includes a Stealth protocol that'll mask your VPN traffic – and make it look like regular old internet data.

Oh, and if you want to check out Proton VPN for free, the free plan is an absolute standout. It lacks unblocking power, however, so keep this in mind if accessing BBC iPlayer is your main priority.

Streaming, unblocking, and speed

In addition to BBC iPlater, Proton VPN does a great job of unblocking other popular services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, and YouTube. In my most recent tests, I also tried out other UK services, ITVX and All 4, as well as Aussie on-demand channels 9Now and 10Play. That's an impressive, perfect score.

Proton VPN's speeds reached 630 Mbps when using its WireGuard protocol. These speeds put Proton among the fastest VPN providers currently available, perfect for streaming your favorite shows. Plus, with OpenVPN speeds of around 220 Mbps, you won't find faster speeds on this protocol aside from Surfshark and Mullvad plans, a serious feat of speed. 

Expert Verdict: Proton VPN
River Hart Tech Software Editor
Expert Verdict: Proton VPN
River Hart

Proton VPN has earned its reputation for airtight security and unblocking power over the years, and has undergone a transformative makeover more recently. Plus, with its awesome free plan, you have all the time you need to take the VPN for a test drive. 

★★★★½

Read more: Proton VPN review

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Proton VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignThe dark mode interface is an awesome standout⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useGreat mobile apps, but the desktop version can be fiddly⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceRecent improvements in speed have seen Proton VPN jump up our rankings, especially using WireGuard.⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingOnly paid accounts get access to unblocking features, which are solid⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyLots of security add-ons, audited apps, and strong encryption⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportGetting through to an agent can be tricky⭐⭐⭐
PricePremium plans are pretty pricey, but there's a great free option⭐⭐⭐⭐

(Image credit: CyberGhost)

5. CyberGhost

A feature-packed BBC iPlayer VPN

Unblocks BBC iPlayer: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 45 days | UK servers: Berkshire, London, Manchester | Also unlocks: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, ITVX, All 4, 9Now | Streaming devices: Android, iOS | Maximum devices supported: 7

Huge network of 9,200+ servers
Powerful mobile apps
Speedy live chat support
45-day money-back guarantee
Impressive WireGuard speeds
Have to register/remove devices
Support site could be improved

CyberGhost is a long-standing favorite of privacy purists everywhere, and a solid pick for anyone hoping to access BBC iPlayer from overseas.

I especially like how user-friendly it is – which makes it an attractive alternative to ExpressVPN for newbies with a budget. Using CyberGhost feels just like using any other app on your desktop of mobile. Basically, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to get started.

One of the first things you'll notice about CyberGhost is its sprawling server network. There are more than 9,200 servers dotted across 91 countries and over 700 of those are in the UK, in London, Manchester, and Berkshire. With their help, you'll be able to unblock BBC iPlayer, even if the first UK server you connect to doesn't work.

Streaming, unblocking, and speed

I particularly like that CyberGhost has a roster of specialized servers for specific streaming platforms. Connect to the BBC iPlayer server for more reliable access to your UK favorites, or switch things up and check out the Netflix and Amazon Prime libraries. It is worth noting, however, that the service struggles to unblock Disney+ and 10Play, which is a little disappointing.

The overall performance is more encouraging – CyberGhost's speeds are consistently quick, achieving peaks of 760 Mbps when I last put it to the test. That's a slight improvement from its previous 730 Mbps speeds.

Expert Verdict: CyberGhost
River Hart Tech Software Editor
Expert Verdict: CyberGhost
River Hart

CyberGhost is a popular VPN that's a great pick for streamers, thanks to its specialized servers and huge network (with plenty of choices in the UK). A lengthy 45-day money-back gives you heaps of time to try it for yourself, too. 

★★★★½

Read more: CyberGhost review

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CyberGhost VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignEasy to customize and navigate⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useBeginners will appreciate the clutter-free layout⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceMiddle-of-the-pack speeds that can handle streaming and torrenting⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingDedicated streaming servers come in handy⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyAn audited no-logs service with a few hiccups⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportGreat live chat support, but support articles aren't as useful⭐⭐⭐
PriceA low-cost provider packed with value⭐⭐⭐⭐

How to choose an iPlayer VPN

With so many VPNs on the market, the reality is that there are some duds in the bunch that just won't work with BBC iPlayer. So, with that in mind, there are a few key criteria to keep in mind when shopping around for a reliable service:

  • Servers: first and foremost, your VPN needs a selection of servers in the UK to access BBC iPlayer. All of my top picks have coverage across the British Isles that'll unblock the likes of ITVX and All 4, too.
  • Speed: imagine you're halfway through a show and everything grinds to a half because of a buffering circle – and now imagine that it's thanks to a sluggish VPN. Today's top services are more than quick enough to handle HD and 4K streams - even if you're not in the UK.
  • Security: this one is critical, and any VPN worth its salt needs to offer a buffet of privacy-boosting features that'll protect your personal data. This includes everything from your BBC iPlayer login to your financial details. So, look for secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, and industry-standard AES-256 encryption.
  • Customer service: everyone needs a bit of help from time to time – and it's the same in the world of VPNs. If you want some advice about which server to pick, how to improve your performance, or simply get set up, it's a good idea to look for a VPN with 24/7 live chat or an email ticketing service.

How to unblock BBC iPlayer with a VPN

Using a VPN with iPlayer is way simpler than it sounds. Let me show you how to do it in just 3 steps:

  1. Pick a VPN that suits you best: all of the apps above have proven time and again that they unblock BBC iPlayer in our stringent testing.
  2. Connect to the UK: once you've got your VPN, install it on the device you want to stream on, and pick a server in the UK. Most premium VPNs will automatically assign you the fastest server, so don't worry about which city to use.
  3. Start streaming: head over to iPlayer and watch UK TV from anywhere in the world.

You'll get the best results from a web browser, especially if you have the VPN's extension installed, but most will work with the iPlayer app, too. 

iPlayer VPN FAQs

What is the best working BBC iPlayer VPN?

Right now, NordVPN tops my list of the best BBC iPlayer VPNs. It continues to provide a near-unrivaled experience for unblocking BBC iPlayer, thanks to a smart mix of speeds, security, and compatibility. With apps for almost any device, a wide array of security features, and some of the fastest WireGuard speeds available, you'll struggle to fault your experience using NordVPN with BBC iPlayer.

Why would I need a VPN for BBC iPlayer?

With more streaming services popping up than we can feasibly subscribe to, the BBC's on-demand platform, BBC iPlayer, is a bit of an anomaly, offering thousands of TV shows and films to stream 100% for free. However, if you find yourself outside of the UK for whatever reason, you're going to need a VPN to bypass the geo-restrictions implemented across the platform's library of content.

Hosting incredible British television like Peaky Blinders, BBC iPlayer is also the place to watch Sally Rooney adaptations Normal People and Conversations with Friends, and US imports like the 2021 reboot of Gossip Girl. You'll also want an iPlayer VPN to watch Gavin and Stacey, Fleabag, and Strictly Come Dancing.

What else can a VPN do?

VPNs have become a handy way to watch your favorite shows when abroad and open up a whole world of content on BBC iPlayer and beyond – the amount of people using a VPN for Netflix is enormous. The same goes for Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and regular domestic stations, too.

The geo-spoofing nature of virtual private networks that makes them so useful for streaming also acts as the perfect tool for unblocking restricted websites and sidestepping country-wide internet restrictions. This is also why VPNs for use in China are so popular.

Their encrypted tunnels also make VPNs a kind of de facto antivirus companion. Using an unrelated IP address effectively makes you anonymous as you use the internet, and your data is shielded from prying eyes and cyber crooks.

If you fancy learning more, or just want to brush up on your VPN know-how, I've put together a guide that'll show you how to use a VPN.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

River Hart
Tech Software Editor

River is a Tech Software Editor and VPN expert at TechRadar. They’re on-hand to keep VPN and cybersecurity content up-to-date and accurate. When they’re not helping readers find the best VPNs around (and the best deals), River can be found in close proximity to their PS5 or being pushed about the countryside by the lovely Welsh weather. 

With contributions from