How to Watch British TV Shows & Movies Online Outside the UK?
British TV shows and movies have a worldwide fan base due to their high-quality storytelling, unique humor, and diverse genres. Whether it’s gripping dramas like Downton Abbey, detective mysteries such as Sherlock, or popular comedies like The IT Crowd, British entertainment offers something for everyone.
However, accessing this content online from outside the UK can be challenging due to regional restrictions on UK streaming services.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about watching British TV shows and movies online from anywhere in the world, including why they are restricted and how tools like VPNs can help you overcome these limitations.
In A Hurry? How to watch British TV Online from anywhere?
To enjoy British TV shows and movies online from outside the UK, you need to bypass the geo-restrictions imposed by streaming platforms. Follow these steps:
- First, you need a VPN subscription like ExpressVPN to watch British TV shows & movies.
- Once you’ve chosen a VPN, download and install the application on your preferred device.
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in the UK. This will provide you with a UK IP address.
- Visit the website or open the app of the British streaming service you want to use (e.g., BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4).
- Search for your favorite shows or movies and start streaming without any restrictions.
Why Are British TV Shows & Movies Not Available in Your Region?
The unavailability of British TV shows and movies in certain regions is largely due to licensing agreements and geo-blocking. Streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub acquire rights to broadcast content within specific territories. These rights are often limited to the UK.
Streaming platforms use your IP address to determine your location. If your IP address is outside the UK, access to content is restricted.
Some content may be restricted due to regional censorship laws or contractual obligations that prevent its broadcast in certain countries.
Why Do You Need A VPN to Watch British TV Abroad?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the most effective way to access geo-blocked content. It masks your actual location by assigning you an IP address from the UK, allowing you to access British streaming platforms as if you were there.
A VPN allows you to connect to a UK-based server, assigning you a UK IP address and bypassing the geo-restrictions imposed by streaming services.
Beyond British TV shows and movies, a VPN can unlock content from other regions, including US-based platforms like Hulu, HBO Max, and Netflix US.
Best VPNs for Watching British TV shows and movies
Here’s are the best VPNs for watching British TV shows and movies outside the UK.
1. ExpressVPN
Known for its blazing-fast speeds and robust security, ExpressVPN is a top choice for streaming geo-restricted content.
✔ 3,000+ servers in 105 countries which help you to unblock region-locked content
✔ Connect Up to 8 devices simultaneously with one account
✔ Unblock CapCut, Netflix, VUDU, Nova Sports, BBC iPlayer, Fundago, and more
✔ You can use it on android, window, iPhone, Mac, Apple, Smart TV, Chrome, Router
✔ Privacy: Military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
✔ 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN offer April 2025: For a limited time, you can save up to 61% on 2-year subscription plan + 4 months free.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is a reliable and secure option with a large server network, making it a favorite for streaming.
✔ 7,100+ ultra-fast servers in 110 countries
✔ Connect Up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account
✔ Stream Netflix, VUDU, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Sky TV, and more from anywhere
✔ Apps available for android, window, iPhone, Mac, Apple, Smart TV, Chrome, Router
✔ 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN offer April 2025: For a limited time, you can save up to 70% on 2-year subscription plan + 3 months free.
3. Cyberghost
CyberGhost offers an easy-to-use interface and optimized servers for streaming.
✔ 11,600+ servers in 100 countries so you can easily access regional content
✔ Connect Up to 7 devices simultaneously with one account
✔ Unblock platforms like Netflix, VUDU, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Sky TV and more
✔ Apps available for android, window, iPhone, Mac, Apple, Smart TV, Chrome, Router etc
✔ 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost VPN Exclusive Deal April 2025: For a limited time, you can save up to 82% on a 2 Years subscription plan + 4 Months FREE
Platforms to watch British TV shows
Here are some of the top platforms where you can stream British TV shows and movies:
- BBC iPlayer
- BritBox
- Netflix
- ITV
- All 4
You may or may not have access to these platforms in your country, so for that also you will be required to use a good VPN. Even if you do have access to the platform, you might not find all British shows, for which again you will need a VPN.
Can I Watch British TV Shows on a Smart TV or Streaming Device?
Smart TVs: Most British streaming apps, like BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub, are available on smart TVs, but they may require a VPN if you’re outside the UK.
Streaming Devices: You can watch using devices like:
- Amazon Firestick
- Roku
- Apple TV
- Chromecast
Setup: Install the VPN app on your streaming device or configure it on your router.
Can I Watch British TV on Game Consoles?
Yes, many British streaming apps are compatible with game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. To access them:
- Download the app for BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, or All 4.
- Use a VPN-enabled router or set up a VPN connection through your console’s DNS settings.
Are There Alternative Platforms for British Content?
Other platforms hosting British TV shows and movies include:
- Acorn TV
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Netflix (regional variations)
What Are the Best British Crime Dramas to Watch?
Popular British crime dramas include:
- Sherlock
- Broadchurch
- Line of Duty
- Happy Valley
- The Fall
FAQs
Can I Watch British TV Shows for Free?
Platforms like BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and All 4 offer free streaming but may require you to create an account and provide a UK TV license number.
What Devices Support British Streaming Platforms?
Most British streaming platforms are accessible on smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Amazon Firestick and Roku.
Which VPN Is Best for Streaming British TV?
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are highly recommended due to their fast speeds, reliability, and large number of UK servers.
How is it possible for a VPN to bypass geographical restrictions?
VPNs are capable of hiding the original IP address of your device and in return provide your device with a fake IP address which is needed to access the shows.
Can I Watch British TV Shows on Netflix?
Some British TV shows and movies are available on Netflix, but the catalog varies by region. Connect to a UK server via VPN to access Netflix UK’s catalog.
Conclusion
British TV shows and movies are celebrated for their unique storytelling and cultural significance. While geo-restrictions may limit access to these shows and films outside the UK, using a reliable VPN can help you bypass these barriers.
Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, witty comedies, or thrilling mysteries, following the steps outlined in this guide will ensure you never miss out on your favorite British entertainment. Start streaming today and enjoy the best of British television from anywhere in the world!