If you’ve been wondering how to watch NBC in the UK, you’re definitely not alone. With hit shows like Transplant, Law & Order, Saturday Night Live, America’s Got Talent, and countless others, NBC is a must-have for anyone who loves premium entertainment. But here’s the catch—NBC is geo-restricted and officially available only in the United States. So, if you’re trying to stream NBC from the UK, you’ll probably run into a frustrating “This content is not available in your location” message.
But don’t worry—we’ve got a simple workaround. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to watch NBC from the UK, explain why it’s blocked, what kind of content you can expect, and answer the most common questions people ask about accessing NBC abroad.
Why is NBC Not Available in the UK?
NBC is a US-based television network owned by NBCUniversal, and due to licensing agreements and regional broadcasting rights, its content is only accessible to users within the United States. This is especially frustrating because NBC doesn’t offer a UK version of its streaming platform like some other US networks do.
So when you try to visit NBC.com or stream through Peacock (NBC’s sister platform), your UK IP address gives you away, and access is denied.
Is It Legal to Watch NBC in the UK?
Yes, it is legal to watch NBC in the UK—as long as you’re accessing it for personal use and not redistributing or downloading copyrighted material. Many users legally subscribe to services in the US and use tools like VPNs to access the content they already pay for.
So while NBC doesn’t offer an official platform in the UK, you’re not breaking the law by using a VPN to stream it. Just make sure you’re using trusted services and not trying to pirate any content.
How to Watch NBC in the UK (Quick Guide)
Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown to get you started:
- Choose a VPN with US servers – A VPN (Virtual Private Network) will allow you to change your IP address to one from the US.
- Download and install the VPN app – Use a reputable VPN provider like NordVPN for reliability and speed.
- Connect to a US server – This will make it appear as though you’re browsing from the United States.
- Go to NBC.com – Or download the NBC app on your streaming device.
- Sign in with a US TV provider or use a streaming service – We’ll explain your options for this below.
Do I Need a US TV Provider to Watch NBC in the UK?
Here’s where things get a little tricky. NBC typically requires login credentials from a US TV provider (like Xfinity, DirecTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV) in order to stream full episodes and live TV from their website or app.
If you don’t already have a subscription to one of these providers, you still have options:
Option 1: Use a US-based Live TV Streaming Service
Several US streaming services carry NBC as part of their package:
- Sling TV – Offers NBC in select US cities. You can pay using a US gift card.
- YouTube TV – Includes NBC live, and supports US billing. Works well with VPNs.
- FuboTV – Sports-focused, but includes NBC in most regions.
- Hulu + Live TV – Offers NBC and other major US networks.
All of these services require payment via a US billing method, but you can often use gift cards or virtual prepaid cards to get around this.
Option 2: Watch NBC Shows on Peacock
NBC’s streaming platform Peacock carries a lot of NBC content. It doesn’t have the full live TV experience, but you can stream full episodes of NBC shows, next-day airings, and even original content. Again, you’ll need a VPN and a US-based payment method (like a gift card or US virtual prepaid card) to sign up from the UK.
What Devices Can I Use to Watch NBC in the UK?
Once you’re set up, you can watch NBC on just about any device, including:
- Laptops and Desktops – Via web browsers like Chrome or Firefox.
- Smartphones and Tablets – NBC app is available on iOS and Android.
- Smart TVs – Use Peacock, YouTube TV, or other streaming apps.
- Roku, Firestick, Apple TV – Install the relevant streaming service app and connect through a VPN-compatible router or Smart DNS.
Can I Watch NBC in the UK Without Cable?
Absolutely. Many cord-cutters use services like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Peacock to stream NBC content without a traditional cable subscription. Just make sure you’re using a reliable method to spoof your location (like a VPN), and that you’ve set up a valid US payment method.
What Shows Can I Watch on NBC?
NBC has a deep lineup of hit series across genres. Here’s a taste of what’s available:
- Drama: Transplant, Chicago Med, This Is Us, Law & Order, The Blacklist
- Comedy: Saturday Night Live, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Young Rock
- Reality & Game Shows: The Voice, America’s Got Talent, The Wall
- News & Specials: Dateline NBC, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
Whether you love scripted series, live shows, or laugh-out-loud comedies, NBC has something for everyone.
Integrated FAQs
Can I watch NBC in the UK for free?
Yes and no. You can watch select episodes and clips on NBC.com without signing in, but for full access or live streaming, you’ll need to log in via a US TV provider or streaming service.
What’s the best way to watch NBC live in the UK?
The most reliable method is using a US-based streaming service like Sling TV or YouTube TV along with a VPN. This gives you access to NBC live channels and on-demand content.
Does Peacock have all NBC shows?
Peacock has many NBC shows, but not all are available immediately. Some episodes may have a delay, and live broadcasting is limited on Peacock compared to the NBC website or apps tied to TV providers.
Why is NBC blocking my access in the UK?
NBC uses IP detection to restrict access outside the US. If your IP address shows you’re in the UK, the content is geo-blocked. Using a VPN to get a US IP address solves this.
Can I use a Smart DNS instead of a VPN?
Yes, Smart DNS services can also help you unblock NBC, but they don’t offer the encryption and security that VPNs do. For most users, VPNs are a safer and more consistent choice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the UK and missing out on NBC’s incredible lineup, you don’t have to wait until these shows (maybe) arrive on local platforms. With the right tools—a VPN and a US streaming subscription—you can watch NBC in the UK without a problem. Just follow the steps above, and you’ll be catching the latest Transplant episode or Saturday Night Live sketch in no time.