ESPN+ is a popular streaming service offering a wide range of live sports, original shows, and exclusive content. Unfortunately, it’s only available in the United States, but you can still access it in the UK by using a VPN or DNS server. Here’s a complete guide on how to watch ESPN+ in the UK, along with descriptions of recommended VPNs, DNS services, and an overview of the programs available on ESPN+.
Step 1: Subscribe to ESPN+
Before you start streaming, you’ll need an ESPN+ subscription. The service offers:
- Monthly Plan: $9.99 per month.
- Annual Plan: $99.99 per year.
- Disney+ Bundle: $13.99 per month (includes ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu).
Step 2: Use a VPN to Access ESPN+ in the UK
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps you bypass geo-restrictions by connecting you to a server in another country, such as the U.S., allowing you to access ESPN+. Here are some recommended VPNs:
- NordVPN
- Features: Offers a large number of servers in the U.S., fast speeds, and strong security features.
- Pricing: Starts at £2.49 per month (2-year plan).
- Surfshark
- Features: Provides unlimited device connections, robust security, and high-speed servers in the U.S.
- Pricing: Starts at £1.79 per month (2-year plan).
- CyberGhost
- Features: Easy-to-use apps, streaming-optimized servers, and good connection speeds.
- Pricing: Starts at £1.99 per month (2-year plan).
- Private Internet Access (PIA)
- Features: A large server network, strong privacy measures, and affordable plans.
- Pricing: Starts at £1.79 per month (2-year plan).
Step 3: Use a DNS Server to Access ESPN+ in the UK
Alternatively, a Smart DNS server allows you to bypass geo-restrictions without significantly slowing down your connection:
- SmartDNSProxy
- Features: Offers fast speeds and easy setup on various devices.
- Pricing: Starts at £3.19 per month (2-year plan).
- Unlocator
- Features: Supports a wide range of streaming services, including ESPN+, with quick setup guides.
- Pricing: Starts at £3.59 per month.
- NordVPN’s Smart DNS
- Features: Included with NordVPN, provides Smart DNS options to easily unblock ESPN+.
- Pricing: Included in NordVPN subscription.
Step 4: How to Pay for ESPN+ in the UK
To subscribe to ESPN+ from the UK, you’ll need a U.S.-based payment method. Here are several options you can use:
- Virtual Prepaid Card
- Sign up for a virtual prepaid card service like StatesCard or US Unlocked.
- Load funds onto the card and use it to pay for ESPN+ as a U.S. payment method.
- U.S. PayPal Account
- Set up a PayPal account with a U.S. address.
- Link your UK credit or debit card to the PayPal account.
- Use PayPal as your payment method when subscribing to ESPN+.
- Gift Cards
- Purchase a U.S. ESPN+ gift card from online retailers like MyGiftCardSupply or Raise.
- Redeem the gift card by applying the code during the ESPN+ subscription process.
- Revolut Card
- If you have a Revolut account, switch your currency to USD.
- Use the Revolut card to complete the transaction with ESPN+.
- Use a U.S. Friend’s Payment Method
- Ask a friend in the U.S. to subscribe on your behalf using their payment method, and then you can reimburse them.
How to Pay for ESPN Plus in the UK
Step 5: Download and Install the ESPN+ App
Once your VPN or DNS is set up, download the ESPN+ app on your device:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store. If unavailable, change your Play Store region or sideload the APK.
- iOS: Available on the App Store. You may need to switch your Apple ID region to the U.S.
- Amazon Firestick: Download from the Amazon Appstore after connecting your VPN to a U.S. server.
How to download ESPN Plus in the UK
What You Can Watch on ESPN+
ESPN+ offers a diverse selection of sports programming, including:
- Live Sports
- UFC Fights: Exclusive access to UFC Fight Nights, PPV events, and original shows.
- Soccer: Coverage of leagues such as the English FA Cup, EFL Championship, Bundesliga, Serie A, and MLS.
- College Sports: Extensive NCAA coverage including basketball, football, and baseball.
- MLB, NHL, and NFL: Select out-of-market games and exclusive NFL content.
- Original Shows and Documentaries
- “30 for 30”: Explores significant moments, teams, and athletes in sports history.
- “Detail”: Analysis by sports legends like Kobe Bryant and Peyton Manning.
- “Peyton’s Places”: Peyton Manning explores the history of the NFL.
- Exclusive Series and Studio Shows
- “NFL Primetime”: Recaps and analysis of NFL games.
- “In the Crease”: Nightly highlights show covering the NHL.
- “The Fantasy Show with Matthew Berry”: Tips and insights for fantasy football.
- On-Demand Replays and Archives
- Access replays of recent games, classic matches, and a vast archive of past events.
- PGA Golf
- Coverage of featured holes and groups during PGA Tour events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I watch ESPN+ on multiple devices?
A: Yes, ESPN+ allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
Q: Do I need a U.S. payment method to subscribe to ESPN+?
A: Yes, a U.S.-based payment method, such as a virtual prepaid card, PayPal set to the U.S., or a gift card, might be needed.
Q: Is it legal to use a VPN to watch ESPN+ in the UK?
A: Using a VPN is legal in most countries, including the UK, but it may violate ESPN+’s terms of service.
By following these steps and using a VPN or DNS service, you can enjoy ESPN+ in the UK and stay connected to your favorite sports and shows!