Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK

Top Crypto Trading Platforms in the UK

The UK's crypto sector is regulated by the FCA, which sets clear standards for investor safety and market fairness. Platforms serving British investors must comply with the FCA rules, including AML and KYC measures. Several exchanges offer secure trading environments, convenient GBP deposits, and user-friendly interfaces. Here are the five top crypto exchanges in the United Kingdom.

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1. Kraken

Kraken is the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the UK that is licensed by the FCA and operates under Payward Limited. Established in 2011, it now serves more than 10 million users across the United Kingdom and 180 other countries. Due to this global accessibility, the platform can be used in 13 languages. 

Retail traders have access to a comprehensive selection of 240 cryptocurrencies to trade on spot markets, and there is an OTC desk for institutional investors. It also offers a sophisticated trading environment via Kraken Pro, designed specifically for advanced traders with detailed analytics and a portfolio feature.

Security is a key strength of Kraken, emphasised through regular Proof-of-Reserves audits, military-grade encryption, and constant platform monitoring. British users benefit from seamless GBP deposits, competitive fees, comprehensive educational resources, and live multilingual customer service.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Maker fees start at 0.25% and taker fees at 0.40%
• Supported Assets: Over 360 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered Cryptoasset Firm with the FCA under Payward Ltd. (Firm Reference Number #928768).
• GBP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, FPS, BACS, SWIFT, and PayPal.

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2. eToro

eToro is one of the UK's leading multi-asset investment platforms, recognised for its user-friendly interface, innovative social trading features, and access to diverse financial instruments. Founded in 2007, it is one of the oldest exchanges globally and is home to over 35 million users worldwide. 

The platform enables traders to invest across more than 7,000 assets, covering cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and more. The key feature of eToro is its CopyTrader system, allowing users to automatically replicate strategies from successful investors, a valuable tool for beginners. 

It also offers a comprehensive educational hub, the eToro Academy, which provides free investing courses, webinars, podcasts, and market analysis tools, suitable for all skill levels. Users can conveniently deposit GBP through several accessible methods while benefiting from clear, upfront pricing without hidden fees.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: 1% transaction fee on crypto trades, plus a spread.
• Supported Assets: Over 100 cryptocurrencies, along with 7000 stocks, ETFs, and more.
• Regulation & Licensing: eToro (UK) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the FCA under Firm Reference Number 583263. It is registered in England under Company No. 07973792.
• GBP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, debit cards, FPS, BACS and PayPal.

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3. Uphold

Uphold is rapidly gaining popularity in the UK as a streamlined and secure cryptocurrency exchange, recognised for its simple, one-step trading experience. Launched in London, it supports 10 million registered customers across 150 countries, including a strong and expanding British client base. 

The platform allows direct conversions between various assets in a single transaction, such as cryptocurrencies, fiat currencies and precious metals, providing users with unmatched trading flexibility. Additional features include the Uphold MasterCard and the Uphold Vault, providing assisted self-custody solutions.

Security and transparency are key strengths of Uphold. The platform publishes its assets and liabilities in real-time, updated every 30 seconds on its website, demonstrating genuine transparency. Its compliance with GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act further reassures users of their data safety.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Zero fees but spreads between 0.2% - 2.95% apply.
• Supported Assets: Over 300 digital assets, 4 precious metals and 27 fiat currencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Uphold Europe Limited is registered with the FCA (Firm Reference Number 938277).‍
• GBP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, FPS, SEPA, credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

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4. Coinbase

Coinbase remains one of the most trusted exchanges in the UK, offering a secure and user-friendly platform for trading digital assets. Since its launch in 2012, it has grown to become the largest publicly traded crypto company globally, ensuring transparency through quarterly financial statements. 

For advanced traders, Coinbase offers its Advanced Trade platform with lower volume-based fees, multiple order types, and in-depth charting tools powered by TradingView. Coinbase Wallet, a self-hosted crypto wallet, enables users to take full control of their digital assets, supporting staking and NFT storage.

Security is a top priority at Coinbase, with a multifaceted risk management system designed to protect user funds. Unlike some exchanges, it does not lend or use customer assets without permission. The platform also provides 24/7 support, including live chat assistance, ensuring users can access help whenever needed. 

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Spot trading fees start at 1.49%, with reduced fees on Coinbase Advanced.
• Supported Assets: Over 240 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: CB Payments, Ltd (also trading as Coinbase) is registered with the FCA under (Firm Reference Number 900635).
• GBP Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, FPS, credit cards and debit cards.

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5. Bitpanda

Bitpanda is a highly trusted, Austrian multi-asset trading platform that has grown to serve over 6 million users across the UK and Europe. Established in 2014, it is fully regulated under EU financial standards, offering a safe and compliant environment for crypto, stock, and commodity trading. 

British investors can buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies seamlessly while also diversifying into fractional stocks, ETFs, and precious metals, all within a single account. Bitpanda provides multiple earning opportunities, including staking rewards and interest-bearing accounts through Bitpanda Cash Plus.

Security is at the core of Bitpanda’s operations, with funds stored in offline cold wallets and compliance with strict anti-money laundering (AML) and data protection regulations. The platform holds ISO 27001 certification, reflecting its commitment to best-in-class security standards.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Trading fees start at 2.49%.
• Supported Assets: Over 250 cryptocurrencies, plus 3,000 stocks, commodities, and metals.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered with the FCA (Firm Reference Number #925234).
• GBP Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, Faster Payments, debit cards, credit cards, Skrill, and Neteller.

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Is Crypto Regulated in the UK?

​The United Kingdom has been proactively developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) categorises crypto assets into regulated tokens, such as security and e-money tokens, and unregulated tokens like Bitcoin and Litecoin. 

Firms dealing with regulated crypto assets must be registered with the FCA and comply with strict anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) requirements. Additionally, the FCA gained authority over cryptoasset financial promotions, requiring clear, compliant advertising to protect UK consumers from misleading claims. 

Recent legislative developments, including the Property (Digital Assets) Bill introduced in Parliament in September 2024, classify cryptocurrencies and NFTs as personal property under English and Welsh law, providing stronger legal protections against fraud and theft. 

‍Looking ahead, the FCA has outlined a "crypto roadmap" detailing plans to implement new regulations covering capital requirements, insider trading, market abuse, order handling, execution, custody, liquidity, and risk management for crypto firms.

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How is Crypto Taxed in the UK?

​In the United Kingdom, the taxation of cryptocurrency is governed by specific guidelines set forth by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The tax treatment varies depending on the nature of the transactions and the individual's involvement with cryptoassets.

• Capital Gains Tax: Individuals disposing of crypto assets may be liable to pay Capital Gains Tax. As of the 2024-2025 tax year, the annual tax-free allowance for capital gains has been reduced to £3,000. Gains exceeding this allowance are taxed at rates of 18% for basic rate taxpayers and 24% for higher and additional rate taxpayers. ​
• Income Tax: Certain crypto transactions are subject to Income Tax. The value of the cryptoassets received is considered income and taxed accordingly, with rates ranging from 20% to 45%, depending on the individual's total taxable income. 

Given the evolving nature of cryptocurrency taxation, individuals engaged in crypto asset transactions are advised to stay informed about current regulations and check what their tax obligations are or consider consulting with tax professionals to ensure compliance.

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Cryptocurrency Adoption in the UK

The UK's cryptocurrency sector is experiencing significant growth, with digital assets becoming increasingly popular among both consumers and businesses. 

Market revenue for cryptocurrencies in the United Kingdom is projected to reach US$1.6 billion by the end of 2025. The crypto market is expected to serve around 23.95 million users, representing approximately 35.12% of the population. 

Growth is supported by businesses across various sectors, such as retail, finance, and technology, integrating crypto payments into their operations. This broader acceptance positions the country as a leading European hub for digital asset usage.

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How to Buy Bitcoin in the United Kingdom

To securely buy and sell Bitcoin in the United Kingdom, investors should select FCA-registered exchanges. Follow these straightforward steps to safely purchase BTC in the UK:

1. Select a Trusted Exchange: Choose an established exchange operating under FCA guidelines, such as eToro, Kraken, or Bitstamp, which offer seamless GBP deposit options.
2. Complete Account Verification: Sign up for an exchange and submit the required identity documents to comply with the FCA’s KYC rules. This typically includes providing valid identification, proof of residency, and other personal details.
3. Fund Your Account: Deposit British Pounds (GBP) using bank transfers, debit cards, or other approved payment methods supported by your chosen exchange.
4. Purchase Cryptocurrency: Select Bitcoin, enter the amount you intend to purchase, carefully review fees and transaction details, and then confirm to finalise the transaction.

Following these guidelines allows British investors to securely trade crypto assets using exchanges fully compliant with local FCA regulations, ensuring consumer protection and market integrity.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right cryptocurrency exchange in the UK requires careful consideration of security, regulatory compliance, fees, and available trading features. 

The platforms covered in this guide, Kraken, eToro, Uphold, Coinbase, and Bitpanda, offer strong FCA-compliant services, ensuring safe trading for British investors. Always assess platform security, transparency, and deposit options before making a decision.