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How to Watch ESPN Plus in the UK in 2024
Last updated April 24, 2024
ESPN+ has a wealth of sports coverage from the NFL, NBA, MLB, and more - plus documentaries, highlights, and debate-driven shows. Unfortunately, ESPN Plus is not accessible in the UK because it's an exclusive US service. That said, some ESPN channels and content are available in the UK through TNT Sports, which can be added on to BT, Sky, and Virgin Media subscriptions.
Moreover, even if you have an ESPN+ account, you can't use it when traveling outside the US. Using a VPN is the only way you can get the ESPN Plus standalone streaming service in the UK. By connecting to a server in the US, you'll change your virtual location. This will trick ESPN+ into giving you access.
In this article, we’ll go through the steps to watch ESPN+ in the UK and explain why you need a VPN to do it, plus recommend the top providers. We'll also share how much an ESPN+ subscription costs, give you some alternate payment options to subscribe to ESPN+ in the UK, and present a selection of what you can watch on the sports streamer. We end with some answers to FAQs.
How to Watch ESPN Plus in the UK
To watch ESPN Plus in the UK, you need to change your IP address to the US with the help of a capable VPN. Note that you’ll also need a valid US payment method (such as PayPal or a credit card). Here’s how to proceed:
- Subscribe to an ESPN+ VPN for the UK (we recommend NordVPN).
- Install the VPN on your PC, tablet, or smartphone.
- Choose a US server from the app.
- Head to the ESPN Plus website and click “Subscribe to ESPN+ only.”
- Input your email address to proceed.
- Enter your information (with your country set to the US) and click “Create Account.”
- Pick a plan and add your payment info (US PayPal or credit card required).
- Click “Agree & Subscribe” and that's it. Now you can stream ESPN Plus in the UK!
To get ESPN+ in the UK, you need to use a payment method with a US billing address - either a US PayPal account or US credit/debit card. If you don’t have one, no worries. In a later section, we’ll be going through a few alternate payment methods - such as a virtual credit card or Apple and Google gift cards. You’ll be able to use the mobile ESPN Plus app that way, too.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN+ in the UK?
You need a VPN to watch ESPN+ in the UK because it’s only available in the United States. You can catch some ESPN content through the TNT Sports add-on with some Sky, BT, and Virgin Media plans, but it's not the entire ESPN+ service. Moreover, most sporting events are only licensed for a specific region, with blackouts occurring even across different states in the US.
If you try to stream ESPN+ in the UK without a VPN, you get “red-carded” with a short geo-block message saying: “We're sorry, an unexpected error occurred.”
This can be bypassed by changing your IP address to one from the US, which will trick ESPN+ into thinking you’re physically located in the States. As it happens, a VPN is the most convenient way of getting a US IP to watch ESPN Plus outside the US. For your convenience, we’ve gone ahead and listed the best VPNs for ESPN Plus in the next section.
Now, most streaming services tend to block VPNs, and ESPN+ is no different. They’re especially strict about it, since sporting events are subject to blackouts even across state borders. That's why we recommend using NordVPN. It supports 4K streaming with its blazing-fast servers and can easily unblock ESPN Plus from anywhere.
The Best VPNs to Watch ESPN+ Live Stream in the UK
To find the right VPN, you need to make sure it has the ability to unblock ESPN+ and other streaming services without a fuss. Therefore, it needs to have a widespread international server network with coverage in the US, as well as obfuscation to bypass strict VPN filters online.
You also need a VPN with great performance and speed regardless of server distance. Meanwhile, a kill switch and strict no-logs policy are necessary to keep your data and location private. Advanced encryption like AES-256 and protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard are musts to safeguard against cyber threats.
Naturally, the VPN should work on as many platforms as possible (Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and more). A decent number of simultaneous connections is great for multi-screen streaming. Plus, make sure the provider offers reasonable prices. Lastly, 24/7 live chat and a money-back guarantee offer a solid backup plan.
Based on the criteria above, these are the 4 best VPNs for streaming ESPN Plus in the UK:
- NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch ESPN+ in the UK
- Surfshark - Stream ESPN Plus in the UK with Lightning-Fast Speeds
- ExpressVPN - Secure VPN for Unblocking ESPN Plus Outside the US
- CyberGhost VPN - Get ESPN Plus in the UK on a Budget
1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch ESPN+ in the UK
NordVPN is the best VPN for watching ESPN Plus in the UK because of its SmartPlay feature. It allows you to unblock ESPN Plus from anywhere, along with plenty of other streamers from around the world. The VPN also boasts a relatively large network, with 6,300+ servers in 111 countries (including 16 USA locations with 1,970+ servers), so you’re spoiled for choices when it comes to streaming.
NordVPN also includes obfuscated servers in case you’re dealing with strict VPN filters at work, school, or similar public networks. Naturally, you can expect lightning-fast speeds and exceptional performance, whether you’re watching from the UK or overseas.
On top of that, NordVPN provides a kill switch that you can customize to your liking, allowing you to shut off traffic to the ESPN Plus app without affecting any background downloads or similar activities.
The VPN comes with a robust no-logs policy, showing the provider’s commitment to user privacy. On top of that, your data is secured with tried-and-tested protocols and encryption: OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec with AES-256-GCM encryption, as well as NordLynx (based on WireGuard, with ChaCha20 encryption).
NordVPN has sleek apps for all popular systems, from Windows to Linux and mobiles to smart TVs. With a single subscription, you can use the VPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is decent enough for most single users' purposes.
This provider is pretty affordable, offering a 2-year plan for as low as $3.09 per month. As always, NordVPN comes with a 30-day refund period in case you want to explore other providers. Finally, feel free to contact 24/7 live chat support if you encounter any issues.
PROS
- Excellent streaming support.
- Works on ESPN+ and others.
- Smart DNS elements with SmartPlay.
- Stealth and other specialty servers.
- 24/7 live chat.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Not fully obfuscated.
2. Surfshark - Stream ESPN+ in the UK with Lightning-Fast Speeds
Surfshark is another excellent choice because it can easily unblock ESPN Plus from the UK and anywhere else in the world. It also works well with any other streaming services. This is thanks to its 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, which include 600+ servers in 25 US cities. Better yet, all its servers are obfuscated. This will keep your VPN usage hidden from ESPN+.
It comes with Nexus technology, which rotates your IP and utilizes its entire network to improve speed and connection stability. Overall, Surfshark delivers blazing-fast speeds and consistent performance across its whole network of servers.
You'll get a kill switch to prevent IP leaks in the event of a VPN disconnection. Surfshark also follows a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy. Moreover, it secures your data with military-grade AES-256-GCM encryption on its OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols. You can also use WireGuard paired with ChaCha20 encryption, which is often better for streaming speeds.
Surfshark works on any popular streaming devices, including computers, tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, and more. Best of all, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your tech.
If you're on a budget, Surfshark is a great option because it only costs $2.29 per month for its 2-year plan. You can test out its services for a month with its 30-day money-back guarantee and get a refund if it's not a good fit. Lastly, its 24/7 customer support is available via live chat for any questions or issues you may have.
PROS
- Hundreds of fast US servers.
- Unblocks ESPN Plus.
- Nexus IP rotation technology.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Customer support available 24/7.
- 30-day refund period.
CONS
- iOS app could use improvement.
3. ExpressVPN - Secure VPN for Unblocking ESPN Plus Outside the US
ExpressVPN can easily unblock ESPN Plus in the UK, along with any other streaming platforms. This is thanks to its powerful servers spread across 24 US locations. Overall, it comes with thousands of servers in 105 countries. Its entire network has automatic obfuscation, too.
Performance-wise, ExpressVPN offers consistently high speeds and impressive performance on any server. This makes it a great choice if you want to live-stream events on ESPN+ in the UK, or if you’re abroad on a holiday.
Otherwise, ExpressVPN includes a kill switch to shut off Internet access upon disconnecting. This prevents IP leaks until you can safely reconnect. Furthermore, the provider’s no-logs claims have been thoroughly audited, so you don’t have to worry about them recording your online activity.
Aside from that, ExpressVPN offers industry-standard protocols and encryption to keep you safe. This includes the in-house Lightway protocol (with WolfSSL encryption) and the classic OpenVPN and IKEv2 options (with AES-256 encryption).
ExpressVPN runs perfectly on most systems, whether it’s Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and various others. Want to watch the match on the big screen but your TV doesn’t support VPNs? You can use the router app and grant VPN access to your entire household. Moreover, you'll get up to 8 simultaneous connections on a single subscription.
This VPN is one of the more expensive options, with an annual plan for $6.67 per month. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can contact 24/7 live chat support for any concerns you may have.
PROS
- Fast, widespread US network.
- Reliably unblocks ESPN+.
- Obfuscation on all servers.
- 8 simultaneous connections.
- 24/7 customer support via chat.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- More expensive than competition.
4. CyberGhost VPN - Get ESPN Plus in the UK on a Budget
If you’re looking to unblock ESPN+ in the UK on a budget, CyberGhost VPN is a great option. It works also with 40+ other streaming services. You get a massive network of servers in 105 countries (including 2,100+ servers in 11 US cities), many of which are optimized for streaming. These streaming-optimized servers come in handy for bypassing geo-blocks, as it doesn't have obfuscation.
Speeds are relatively fast with reliable performance, and we’ve had no trouble live streaming ESPN+ events. That said, CyberGhost’s more remote servers can be a little slow sometimes. Nothing too jarring, though.
On the other hand, CyberGhost comes with an always-on kill switch to safeguard your online identity in case of disconnections. Privacy-wise, it also includes a strict zero-logs policy (with an audit to prove it).
Another key point is the inclusion of advanced encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20) with protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. The latter is especially well suited for streaming ESPN+ in the UK without interruptions due to its efficient code base.
Even better, CyberGhost runs amazingly on all platforms, whether you’re on a PC, smartphone, tablet, or smart TVs. And considering its budget-friendly subscriptions, we like that the VPN comes with 7 simultaneous connections on all plans.
CyberGhost is one of the most affordable VPNs, ringing up at $2.19 per month for its 2-year plan. It also offers 24/7 live chat so you can troubleshoot issues (or ask for server recommendations), and there’s a 45-day money-back guarantee if you subscribe long term.
PROS
- Streaming-optimized servers.
- Budget-friendly plans.
- Unblocks ESPN+ and 40+ streamers.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Lacks obfuscated servers.
- On the slower side.
How Much is an ESPN+ Subscription in the UK?
The cost of an ESPN+ subscription in the UK is pretty straightforward - just your basic "Monthly" and "Annual" plans. They cost $10.99 (£8.74) per month or $109.99 (£87.47) per year, respectively. On top of that, you need to consider sales tax in the US, which isn’t factored into the price due to differing state taxes.
You can also get ESPN Plus as part of a Disney streaming bundle. There is no completely ad-free option, regardless of how you subscribe to the service. The ESPN+ app provides up to 3 simultaneous streams (or 2 for UFC PPV events). Regrettably, ESPN+ does not have a free trial period.
In any case, here are the prices for ESPN+ in both US dollars and Great British pounds:
How to Subscribe to ESPN+ in the UK
To subscribe to ESPN+ in the UK, you need a US debit or credit card or a US PayPal account. If you don't have one, there are 4 alternative methods: you either need to register for a virtual US credit card, borrow someone's US PayPal account, use a US Apple gift card, or pay with a US Google Play gift card. More details below.
Method 1: Pay for ESPN Plus with a US Apple Gift Card
To get ESPN+ in the UK with a US Apple gift card, you’ll first need to create a new Apple ID with a US billing address. After you buy and redeem your Apple gift card, you’ll have to use a VPN to get the ESPN app from the App Store, as seen below:
- Subscribe to a capable ESPN+ VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download the VPN on your iOS device.
- Open the app and connect to a server in the US.
- Sign up for a US-based Apple ID.
- Purchase a US Apple gift card and redeem it.
- Get the ESPN app from the App Store.
- Launch the app and subscribe with your gift card funds.
- Select a stream and enjoy sports coverage on ESPN+ in the UK.
Method 2: Pay for ESPN Plus with a Google Play Gift Card
Before anything, you need a Google account with a US billing address so you can redeem a US Play Store gift card. Then, you’ll have to connect to a US VPN server to get the ESPN app. Follow these instructions to make things easy:
- Sign up for a reliable ESPN+ VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
- Install the VPN on your Android device.
- Launch the VPN and connect to the US.
- Create a new US Google account.
- Buy a US Google Play gift card and redeem the funds.
- Download the ESPN app from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and sign up for ESPN+.
- Choose a stream and relax with your favorite sports.
Method 3: Pay for ESPN Plus with a Virtual Credit Card
Registering for a virtual credit card allows you to sign up for ESPN+ and other platforms, although you’ll still need a VPN to get ESPN in the UK. Here’s what you need to do:
- Get a VPN that works on ESPN+ (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download it and connect to a US server.
- Go to USUnlocked, then select “Get Started.”
- Register for an account.
- Visit the ESPN Plus website and go through the sign-up process from the beginning of this article.
- Add your virtual credit card details at checkout.
- Click “Agree & Subscribe” and enjoy your new ESPN+ account.
Method 4: Pay for ESPN Plus with a US PayPal Account
Things are more manageable if you have someone stateside who’s willing to let you use their US PayPal account. You'll still have to get a US IP with a VPN before you do anything, though. Follow along with these easy steps:
- Download a VPN that can unblock ESPN+ (we recommend NordVPN).
- Access the VPN and select a US server from the provider’s list.
- Go to the ESPN Plus website and select “Subscribe to ESPN+ only.”
- Follow the sign-up process as usual.
- At checkout, use the US PayPal account to pay for your subscription.
- Press “Pay with PayPal” to get redirected to PayPal's payment processor.
- Once you're redirected post-payment, pick something to watch and start streaming!
What to Watch on ESPN+ in the UK?
ESPN+ is one of the greatest hubs for sports fans everywhere. There’s non-stop NFL action all season long, including live games, highlights, and other goodies. Live stream games from the MLB, NCAA, NBA, NHL, as well as football matches from your favorite teams in LA LIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, or Liga MX.
When your favorites aren’t playing, you can dabble in sporting debates, season highlights, documentaries, originals, and plenty of other quality sports programming from ESPN. This includes the likes of On the Clock, Bananaland, 30 for 30, The Ultimate Fighter, and more.
Here’s a taste of what you can find on the extensive ESPN+ library, including all the leagues and sports available, plus several must-watch documentaries - old and new:
Can You Watch ESPN+ on Virgin Media and Disney Plus?
No, you can't watch ESPN+ on Virgin Media or Disney Plus. The complete content library available with the standalone US ESPN Plus service is not available in the UK - not even through Sky or BT plans.
That said, you can watch very limited ESPN content if you get the TNT Sports add-on with certain Virgin Media services. There is almost no coverage of American sports, though. As for Disney+, you can't bundle ESPN+ with it anywhere outside the US.
Why these restrictions? Well, the rights to broadcast events are usually sold exclusively to local stations and sports networks. Such limitations are called “blackouts” and occur even within the United States. For instance, a person in one state may not be able to watch an NFL game that’s broadcast just across the state border. These licensing restrictions lead to delayed releases and exclusions of certain titles.
Unfortunately, this method of selling broadcast rights won’t be changing anytime soon. Until then, you can just use a VPN to bypass any digital borders and catch your favorite teams on ESPN+ from anywhere. We recommend using NordVPN to sign up for ESPN Plus in the US. It comes with thousands of fast US servers and easily unblocks ESPN+ in the UK.
Final Thoughts
ESPN Plus is a one-stop shop for sports streaming enthusiasts, but it's restricted to the US. That means you can't access ESPN+ from the UK. Moreover, many games in the US are even restricted on a regional basis due to blackouts. Luckily, you can bypass all these restrictions with a VPN.
We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for watching ESPN+ in the UK. This is due to its exceptional ability to unblock ESPN Plus and its thousands of blazing-fast servers in the US. You can use it to enjoy all your favorite sports in 4K from anywhere in the world.
This concludes our guide on how to watch ESPN+ in the UK. Leave a comment below if you’re still having trouble and we’ll be happy to help out. Thanks for reading!