How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain for Free?

BBC iPlayer offers a wide variety of captivating content, from thought-provoking documentaries to gripping dramas. But unfortunately, BBC iPlayer is blocked outside the UK. This is due to broadcasting regulations and licensing agreements that the service has to abide by. Even if you have an iPlayer account, if you travel outside the UK, including Spain, you won't be able to watch it.

The good news is that you can use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain. All you have to do is connect to a UK VPN server. Once you do that, you’ll be able to unblock BBC iPlayer because the streaming service won’t see you’re in Spain. Instead, it will look like you’re in the UK, so you won’t be affected by geo-restrictions anymore. 

In this article, we’ll teach you how to unblock BBC iPlayer in Spain and discuss why you need a VPN to accomplish this. After that, we’ll share the top 3 VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer. Plus, we’ll give you some ideas of what you can binge-watch on iPlayer and tell you if you can download BBC iPlayer on your device in Spain. Finally, we’ll answer the most important FAQs.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain

You simply need to use a VPN and connect to a UK server if you want to stream BBC iPlayer in Spain. This will change your IP address to one from the UK, tricking iPlayer into giving you access to its free content. Follow these steps to make things easy: 

1. Subscribe to a powerful iPlayer VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your device.
3. Launch the VPN and log in with your new account.
4. Connect to a UK-based server.
5. Using any Web browser, go to iPlayer’s website.
6. Click "Sign in" at the top of the home page.



7. Create a new account by clicking "Register now."



8. Set the age for the account user.



9. Add your birthday to verify your age.

10. Complete your profile. Set the country as United Kingdom and enter any UK postcode.



11. Pick any title you wish to stream and click "Play." 
12. Confirm that you have a TV license.



13. Decide whether you want to use iPlayer’s parental controls.



14. That's it! Now your video will begin streaming.

You can watch BBC iPlayer for free no matter where you're located because it only requires a UK TV license. Don't worry if you don't have one because no one has ever gotten in trouble for using iPlayer without it.

Is a VPN Necessary for Watching BBC iPlayer in Spain? 

Yes, you absolutely need a VPN to use BBC iPlayer in Spain. This is because BBC iPlayer is only available in the UK, and it blocks anyone who tries to play its content from other countries. At the moment, using a VPN is the most reliable solution for bypassing these geo-restrictions.

You'll be able to access BBC iPlayer's site and browse its content, but you won't be able to play anything. Unless you use a VPN, iPlayer will check your location by reading your IP address. If you don’t have a British IP, you’ll see the following message: “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”

This is when your access to iPlayer will be blocked. As you can already see, the solution to iPlayer’s geo-block is to change your IP address. That’s precisely what VPNs are designed to do. However, since you need a UK IP address, you need to use a VPN that offers a server fleet in the United Kingdom. This is the only way you can watch BBC iPlayer from anywhere.

That said, you need the best iPlayer VPN, as not every VPN will be able to unblock the streaming service. Our top recommendation is NordVPN because it works with iPlayer every single time, delivering fast speeds when connecting to UK servers from Spain. It's also user-friendly and works on any device, so you can watch BBC iPlayer on your computer, phone, tablet, and more.

The Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain

To choose the best VPN, make sure that it can easily unblock BBC iPlayer. The VPN should come with enough UK servers, so you won’t have problems with overcrowding. At the same time, having a large global server network is also necessary because you’ll be able to unblock other streaming services. 

The VPN needs to deliver reliable performance and fast connection speeds so you get a smooth streaming experience. Premium VPNs must offer tons of security and privacy features to protect your data like obfuscation and a kill switch. You also need a strict no-logs policy, secure protocols, and robust encryption. 

Look for a VPN that provides apps compatible with your devices (smart TVs, tablets, PCs, smartphones, and so on). The ability to connect simultaneous devices for streaming is also important. Make sure the provider has plans that are reasonably priced. Last but not least, you should have access to 24/7 live chat support and a money-back policy. 

Based on the criteria mentioned, here are the best VPNs to stream BBC iPlayer in Spain: 

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain
2. Surfshark – Fully Obfuscated VPN for Using BBC iPlayer in Spain
3. ExpressVPN – Stream BBC iPlayer in Spain with Fast UK Servers 

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain

NordVPN is the best VPN for accessing BBC iPlayer in Spain. It consistently unblocks BBC iPlayer, boasting an extensive server network comprising over 6,300 servers across 111 countries, including 440+ UK servers in 4 cities strategically located in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. It also works well with other streaming services.

During our testing of NordVPN's UK locations, we experienced remarkable streaming speeds, with HD and 4K videos loading swiftly and playing back seamlessly without buffering. Notably, there were no discernible quality drops even when skipping through content. We were also able to connect to any servers without encountering overcrowding.

Beyond its exceptional performance, NordVPN stands out with top-notch security features. It includes a customizable kill switch, robust encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20), obfuscation, a stringent no-logs policy, and fast protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx). For an additional fee, you can also get dedicated IPs, which are less likely to be detected by streaming services. 

NordVPN is compatible with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as streaming devices like smart TVs. Moreover, it allows up to 10 simultaneous connections.

This VPN is pretty cheap, with a 2-year plan ringing up as low as $3.09 per month. Your purchase will be protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee. For added convenience, NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support for any assistance.

2. Surfshark – Fully Obfuscated VPN for Using BBC iPlayer in Spain

Surfshark is another excellent VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in Spain because it unblocks BBC iPlayer with ease, as well as other streaming platforms. This VPN stands out as a broad and dependable service with over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, including 212 UK servers in 4 cities: Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Manchester.

Surfshark delivers swift speeds and optimized performance, as demonstrated in our tests where HD and 4K videos loaded promptly with minimal buffering. It didn’t matter whether we were connected to servers closer or further away—we always enjoyed super-fast connections.

Prioritizing user privacy, Surfshark incorporates features like network-wide obfuscation and a kill switch. Additionally, it employs advanced protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard with high-end AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption. It also follows a strict no-logs policy.

A standout feature is its allowance of unlimited simultaneous connections, providing exceptional convenience. Compatible with various devices including computers, phones, tablets, smart TVs, and more, Surfshark ensures wide accessibility.

Surfshark is great for users looking for a budget-friendly solution. It has a 2-year plan for only $2.29 per month. With a straightforward 30-day money-back guarantee, it also offers 24/7 support via live chat for any inquiries related to its plans. Last but not least, on the VPN’s website, you can also find up-to-date guides and in-depth troubleshooting articles. 

3. ExpressVPN – Stream BBC iPlayer in Spain with Fast UK Servers 

ExpressVPN is ideal for watching BBC iPlayer on-the-go because it effortlessly unblocks BBC iPlayer and numerous other services. Once you subscribe to a plan, you can connect to thousands of servers across 105 countries, including 5 UK server locations: Docklands, the Midlands, London, East London, and Wembley.

ExpressVPN ensures high performance and impressive speeds for smooth HD and 4K streaming on BBC iPlayer. We didn’t experience buffering during any of our tests.

Security-wise, ExpressVPN is backed by obfuscation on all servers, a strict no-logs policy, and a reliable kill switch. Your data is also under protection because it has AES-256 encryption and top-notch protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the exclusive Lightway (with WolfSSL), which was developed in-house and is the best option for streaming.

The VPN supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Firestick, smart TVs, and more. Plus, for your convenience, it also has a dedicated router app. All its apps work flawlessly, and we didn’t experience any crashes or bugs when we tested them. ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous connections.

ExpressVPN is one of the more expensive VPNs, with an annual plan that costs $6.67 per month. It also has 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee. We tested the live chat support feature and the reps were always knowledgeable and answered our inquiries quickly. 

Can I Download BBC iPlayer in Spain on My Device?

Yes, you can download BBC iPlayer in Spain on your device, but only if you use a VPN. Since the streaming service is geo-restricted and available in the UK only, you’ll need to change your IP address. That means replacing your real IP with one from the VPN by connecting to a UK server. This way, BBC iPlayer won’t see your real location. 

You can download the BBC iPlayer app on streaming devices like your phone, tablet, Firestick, Roku, smart TV, and more. But keep in mind that you need to set your device’s location to the UK before that. To make things easier, we made simple, step-by-step guides on downloading the iPlayer app outside the UK. 

What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in Spain?

Unlocking BBC iPlayer with a VPN opens up a treasure trove of captivating content. Whether you crave gripping series, blockbuster movies, engaging shows, or thrilling sports events, BBC iPlayer has a little bit of everything.

You can watch critically acclaimed movies such as Aftersun and The Martian. The platform doesn't fall short on compelling shows either, offering a variety of titles that include Sherlock, Killing Eve, and Doctor Who. 

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy content like Match of The Day, Sportscene, and Slammed: The Eighties. There is also coverage of sporting events, such as Northern Ireland motorcycle racing, World Indoor Bowls Championships, boxing, cycling, field hockey, kabaddi, rugby, and more. You can also watch channels like BBC Radio 1, CBBC, and BBC News. 

Here are a few more recommendations you can add to your watch list: 

BBC iPlayer Not Working with a VPN in Spain - How to Fix

If you can't get BBC iPlayer in Spain with a VPN, this could be due to a number of possible issues. For the most part, a VPN should give you a seamless experience, but errors can occur. Here are some troubleshooting solutions you can try: 

• Restart Your Device (and VPN) – It might seem simple, but rebooting your device and VPN often solves many issues. It's definitely the first thing you should try.
• Ensure Your Internet Is Working – Make sure your Internet is fast and stable enough for streaming to begin with. If it's not, the VPN might not work properly.
• Update Your VPN's App– When updates are released for VPNs, they often contain important patches and bug fixes, which can sometimes resolve connectivity and functionality issues. Make sure you keep your VPN updated at all times.
• Switch Servers – Sometimes, something as simple as trying a different server can help you unblock iPlayer. Aside from slowing you down, an overcrowded server can have difficulty unblocking websites. So, use your VPN app’s interface to switch to another server.
• Use a Different Protocol – Try a different protocol by changing it in your VPN's settings. For streaming, it’s best to use OpenVPN or WireGuard. And also, there’s NordVPN’s NordLynx, known for its speed and security. 
• Clear Cache – Every website stores cookies and cache files on your device. When it comes to iPlayer, those files might point to your actual location, which is how iPlayer can block your access. So, the solution is to clear cookies and other files from your browser.
• Disable Your Firewall Temporarily – VPNs and firewalls often don't play well together. Try disabling your firewall and see if your VPN starts working with BBC iPlayer. If it does, make sure you add an exception to your firewall's rules to allow your VPN.
• Uninstall Other VPN Apps – Having multiple VPNs installed at once can sometimes cause conflicts. Make sure the VPN you're actively using is the only one on your device.
• Contact Your VPN's Support for Help – If nothing else helps, you can turn to your VPN's support team. Premium VPNs offer 24/7-available live chat support, so you'll get to speak to a real person and see if they have any suggestions. 
• Use a Different VPN Provider – When all else fails, you might just have to try a different VPN. The one you're using may not work with BBC iPlayer.

If you need additional tips, here’s our guide to troubleshooting VPNs. Furthermore, we also offer a guide on dealing with VPN error codes, which you'll find helpful if an error happens as you try to connect to your VPN. 

Final Thoughts

BBC iPlayer is a popular streaming service that offers tons of shows and movies. However, it’s available only in the UK due to various copyright agreements. This means you won’t be able to access it from Spain, even if you have an iPlayer account and you're traveling from the UK. Fortunately, you can use a VPN to bypass these restrictions and stream your favorite content anyway. 

NordVPN stands as the top VPN for watching BBC iPlayer in Spain. It has hundreds of UK servers and offers blazing-fast speeds for streaming in 4K. Plus, it has impressive security features, so your data won’t leak online. 

That would be all on how to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain. Feel free to use the comments section below if you have any questions. Lastly, thank you for reading!