How to watch BBC iPlayer from abroad in 2025

If you’re abroad, you may find it frustrating that you’re unable to watch BBC iPlayer while you’re outside of the UK. This happens because BBC iPlayer is geographically restricted to the UK.

This issue can be quite frustrating. Luckily, there is a workaround; by connecting to a UK VPN server, you can bypass geographical restrictions on BBC iPlayer. This will provide you with a UK IP address, enabling you to access your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports.

In addition to bypassing geographical restrictions, VPNs protect users’ anonymity in the online environment by providing strong encryption and a different IP address.

However, it is becoming more challenging to access BBC iPlayer, even after connecting to a UK VPN server. This is because BBC iPlayer is in the business of cracking down on VPNs.

Therefore, you will need to use a top-tier VPN service that is capable of bypassing these VPN blocks.

How to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN

If you want to watch BBC iPlayer from outside the UK, you’ll need to use a VPN. Follow these simple steps to start streaming.

How to watch BBC iPlayer abroad:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that has servers in the UK. It must be a good choice for streaming and unblocking geo-restricted services. I recommend using NordVPN, as it has thousands of servers globally and in the UK.
2. Download the VPN app onto the device you want to watch BBC iPlayer on. Some providers on this list offer unlimited simultaneous connections.
3. Set up the VPN app and connect to a server in the UK. This will give you a UK IP address.
4. Head to BBC iPlayer. You should now be able to watch all of your favorite UK content without any issues.

If you’re still unable to watch BBC iPlayer after following the steps above, try clearing your cache and cookies. If this doesn’t work, try contacting your VPN’s customer support team.

I have reviewed the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer abroad in detail below. However, if you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary.

The best VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer:

1. NordVPN: My top choice for accessing BBC iPlayer from abroad. It has a very fast network of global servers (including in the UK) and can unblock a wide variety of services with ease. It also features robust security measures and includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best budget option for watching BBC iPlayer overseas. It offers over 3,200 servers globally, strong security measures, no limitations on the number of devices connected to the service, and great unblocking ability.
3. Total VPN: A reliable option, providing fast connection speeds and servers in the UK. Offers excellent value for money.
4. Proton VPN: Secure provider with 13,000+ servers in 120+ countries. It also offers strong security and great unblocking capabilities.
5. ExpressVPN: An excellent pick for those who stream a lot. It is fast, secure, and can unblock a wide variety of services.
6. IPVanish: Offers strong security, superb unblocking capabilities, and is a reliable choice for streaming thanks to its fast speeds.
7. PureVPN: A solid VPN with strong security, fast speeds, and user-friendly apps. Works in highly restrictive countries.
8. CyberGhost VPN: Offers users thousands of server options worldwide, including optimized servers for streaming.
9. Private Internet Access: Easy to use, fast, and secure. Boasts a massive network of 35,000+ servers in 91+ countries.
10. PrivateVPN: This is a privacy-focused provider with fast streaming speeds and strong security measures.

Finding the top VPN providers on the market isn’t an easy job. While looking for the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer, I considered the following factors:

• Servers in the UK
• Fast connection speeds
• Unblocking capability
• Security and privacy measures
• Ease of use
• Value for money

For more information about the criteria I used, check out the testing methodology section later in this article.

Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer outside the UK

With that being said, here are the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer from outside the UK:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a top-tier VPN provider with over 8,100 servers spread across 126+ countries. This includes over 440 servers in the UK. This provider’s connection speeds are fast, ensuring users can stream content on services like BBC iPlayer with ease. Thanks to NordVPN’s unblocking ability, users will also have no problem bypassing geographical restrictions.

NordVPN has very strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. NordVPN doesn’t store any logs either, and it also accepts cryptocurrency payments. Cryptocurrency payments are more secure since they don’t associate users’ names with payments, unlike traditional credit card payments.

Users have the option to download NordVPN on various operating systems. This provider’s apps are available for download on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android. Users can connect 10 of their devices to this service at a time. NordVPN’s customer support team is available 24/7.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds are great for streaming applications
• Strong security measures keep users protected
• No logs are stored
• Apps are available for several platforms
• Customer support team available 24/7

Cons:

• The desktop app can be slow at times

BEST VPN FOR WATCHING BBC IPLAYER:NordVPN has thousands of fast servers globally and over 400 in the UK, making it an excellent choice for watching BBC iPlayer from abroad. It also has strong security measures in place. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a great budget option for those planning on travelling abroad and need to watch BBC iPlayer. It has over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including more than 212 servers in the UK. Surfshark’s server speeds are fast, and it is capable of unblocking a wide range of streaming services, such as BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, Channel 4, and ITVX.

Additionally, Surfshark provides robust security measures. These include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, as well as a kill switch. This provider also offers a traffic scrambling option, which allows users to conceal the fact that they’re using a VPN. Surfshark doesn’t store logs either.

Surfshark apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. Some routers can have this service installed on them, too. Users are allowed to connect an unlimited number of devices, and the customer service team is available 24/7.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Can unblock many different services
• Strong security measures
• Supports an unlimited number of connections
• Accepts cryptocurrency payments

Cons

• Some servers are a little slow at times

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a great provider for those on a budget. It offers fast speeds and can unblock a wide variety of services. Unlimited number of connections allowed and strong security measures. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. Total VPN

Total VPN is a fast provider with 1,800+ servers in more than 90 countries. This includes locations in the UK. Although it may have a smaller network, it is more than capable of accessing streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer from abroad. It’s also suitable for playing online games, downloading large files, and making video calls.

It has strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and perfect forward secrecy. There is a no-logs policy to protect users’ privacy. Offers a split tunneling feature and the censorship-beating Hydra protocol.

Total VPN has apps available for Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS. Five simultaneous connections are supported, and the customer support team is available 24/7.

Pros:

• Strong security measures
• Easy to use
• Fast connection speeds
• Great unblocking ability
• Split tunneling feature

Cons:

• Limited number of servers
• Lack of anonymous payment options

DECENT STREAMING VPN:Total VPN offers servers in a wider range of locations, including the UK. Thanks to its strong streaming speeds, it can easily bypass BBC iPlayer’s geographical restrictions. 30-day money-back guarantee as well.

4. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a solid choice for accessing BBC iPlayer and other UK streaming services while you’re traveling overseas. Boasts over 13,000 servers in more than 120 countries, with 733+ servers in the UK. A nice touch is that a command line is available for those who use Linux.

It features excellent security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. This VPN also doesn’t store logs, and perfect forward secrecy is in place. Offers advanced security features like port forwarding, MultiHop, and Secure Core. Plus, you can select your preferred VPN protocol (OpenVPN or WireGuard) and configure split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN.

Proton VPN has apps available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. You can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. Unfortunately, Proton VPN doesn’t offer live chat support.

Pros:

• Strong security measures
• Great unblocking ability
• Good torrenting option
• Works on several different platforms

Cons:

• No live chat support available
• Could be more user-friendly

ADVANCED SECURITY FEATURES:Proton VPN can unblock many different services, has strong security features including port forwarding, and is a great Linux option. It even offers a CLI app and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is an excellent option for streaming. It has more than 3,000 servers in 105+ countries, including servers in the UK. It is also easy to use, making it a great VPN for beginners.

It features robust security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. In addition to the regular ExpressVPN site, a .onion site is available, accessible only through the anonymous TOR network.

The TOR network protects identities by routing connections to websites through a series of encrypted nodes. This allows users to sign up for the service anonymously. Cryptocurrency payments are also accepted, providing an anonymous payment option.

You can download ExpressVPN apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Additionally, some routers can have this service pre-installed. The customer service team can be reached 24/7 via the provided live chat, with a maximum of eight simultaneous connections allowed.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Can unblock top-tier streaming services
• .onion site and acceptance of cryptocurrency
• Strong security measures

Cons:

• More expensive than some other VPNs
• Cap on simultaneous connections

GREAT VPN FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is one of the best options for streaming. It has fast servers and strong security and privacy measures. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. IPVanish

IPVanish is a secure VPN platform that has proven itself as one of the strongest contenders for streaming applications. This has been demonstrated by the endorsements this provider has received over the years from the Kodi streaming community. Additionally, it can unblock various UK services, including BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and Channel 5, without any issues.

There are also several security features in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. There is also a traffic scrambling option available that masks the user’s VPN traffic and adheres to a strict no-logs policy.

IPVanish apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This service can be manually configured on select routers and Linux systems. IPVanish supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, and live chat support is available 24/7/

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Unlimited number of connections
• No logs are stored
• Great option for torrenters and Kodi users

Cons:

• Some servers don’t work with Netflix
• Apps don’t work in China

UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is secure, and it offers fast streaming speeds. It also offers an unlimited number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. PureVPN

PureVPN has over 6,000 servers in more than 70 countries. It offers fast streaming speeds and comes with server locations in the UK. This means that it has no trouble accessing BBC iPlayer and other UK TV platforms from abroad.

PureVPN has strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, split tunneling, leak protection, and a kill switch. PureVPN does store some log information, but this is only a timestamp and the total amount of bandwidth used when connected to a server. It provides specialized servers for torrenting, port forwarding, and enhanced privacy with quantum resistance.

This provider offers apps compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Additionally, it supports Linux with a dedicated app, allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections. Offers dedicated 24/7 VPN support.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Strong encryption protocol
• Allows torrenting
• Server locations in the UK

Cons:

• Somewhat unpredictable speeds
• Can’t unblock Netflix

RELIABLE BBC IPLAYER ACCESS:PureVPN is easy to use, keeps your data secure, and offers a huge server network. It works with BBC iPlayer and comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

8. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN has a network of 11,500+ servers in 100+ countries, including in the UK. Additionally, it can unblock various streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, TNT Sports, and NOW TV. It features servers optimized for streaming and torrenting.

There are strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. This service also doesn’t store logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments, which are more anonymous than traditional credit cards. Supports the WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. Unfortunately, it lacks some of the advanced features offered by other VPNs in this list.

CyberGhost apps are available for download on macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. Some routers can also have this service manually installed. The customer support team is available 24/7. Seven simultaneous connections are supported.

Pros:

• Clients are easy to use
• 24/7 live chat service
• Huge server network
• Unblocks major UK streaming services

Cons:

• Lacks advanced security features
• Torrenting and P2P may not work on all servers

LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has a network that consists of over 11,500 servers. This provides users with a wide range of options for unblocking services. Strong security measures, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

9. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is fast and efficient thanks to the use of the WireGuard VPN protocol. This lightweight provider boasts the largest server network on this list, with 35,000+ in 91+ countries. This means you’ll have no issue accessing UK streaming platforms and other geo-restricted services from around the world. Plus, it offers streaming-optimized servers.

PIA has several privacy measures in place, such as 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. This service also doesn’t store any logs. Port forwarding is available, which is helpful for users who want to seed torrents, and a Shadowsocks proxy can be combined with its MultiHop feature. This allows you to route your traffic through two servers, adding an extra layer of encryption.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. PIA offers customer service available 24/7 via the provided live chat, allowing you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• Strong security measures
• Can provide secure access to many different services
• WireGuard VPN protocol supported
• Several customization options available

Cons:

• Doesn’t work reliably in China
• App design is lacking in some ways

LIGHTWEIGHT AND EFFICIENT OPTION:PIA is a lightweight option that is fast and efficient with servers in the UK. A solid option for accessing BBC iPlayer overseas. Supports an unlimited number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

10. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a smaller provider with a network of just over 200 servers. These servers are spread across 63+ countries. While the total number of servers is small, the service doesn’t skimp on quality. Additionally, it features servers in the UK, allowing you to access British TV shows, movies, and live sports while abroad.

Security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection from IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. This service stores no logs either and accepts cryptocurrency payments. One of its standout features is its Stealth VPN protocol, which offers obfuscation options. The app supports OpenVPN (UDP and TCP), PPTP, and L2TP protocols.

PrivateVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Linux devices and routers can also be manually configured to work with this service. It should be noted that the customer service agents are only available during regular Swedish business hours. Despite this, the quality of customer service is excellent. Allows for 10 device connections simultaneously.

Pros:

• Can unblock many different services
• Stealth VPN protocol
• Work in China

Cons:

• Small server network
• Customer support isn’t available 24/7

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a privacy-focused service that offers strong security measures and servers in the UK. Solid choice for BBC iPlayer users, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer abroad

While searching for the best VPNs for accessing BBC iPlayer from abroad, I researched numerous VPN options. However, not all VPNs were suitable.

To find the best providers for watching BBC iPlayer from abroad, I applied a strict set of criteria. Here are the factors I considered:

• Fast speeds: High-speed connections enable seamless streaming without buffering. This is therefore a crucial quality of a top-tier VPN and a vital feature for anyone attempting to stream content on BBC iPlayer. This is especially true for high-definition streaming content, such as what you will inevitably find on iPlayer.
• Strong server network: All the options reviewed above have robust server networks, with options available in the UK. In fact, most options have multiple servers/locations in the UK. For example, NordVPN offers more than 400 UK servers.
• Unblocking capability: Not all VPNs can unblock a streaming service like BBC iPlayer. Streaming services sometimes block VPN servers. However, top-tier options (such as the ones reviewed above) are capable of working around these blocks. This is thanks to features such as obfuscation offered by providers like Surfshark.
• Security measures: In addition to unblocking BBC iPlayer and other services, VPNs also protect users online. To achieve this, they must have features such as 256-bit encryption and kill switches. Features such as port forwarding also help.
• Easy to use: VPNs should be straightforward, making them accessible to both beginners and experts. Should anything ever go wrong, it’s essential that a provider has a decent customer support service, preferably with a 24/7 live chat.
• Value for money: I never recommend VPNs that are a rip-off. You should get plenty of bang for your buck, with a vast number of excellent features at an affordable price. A money-back guarantee is also a must.

You can find out more information about the criteria I considered by reading my VPN testing process guide.

How to watch BBC iPlayer from abroad FAQs