Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK (2025 Guide)

AI summary

The article reviews the top crypto exchanges in the UK for 2025, highlighting key factors such as FCA regulation, security, fees, and user experience. It compares leading platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, Bitstamp, Revolut, eToro, and Binance, outlining their strengths and limitations for different types of investors. The guide emphasizes the importance of choosing regulated exchanges for safety and recommends self-custody wallets like Tangem for secure, long-term crypto ownership.

The UK’s crypto market continues to grow in 2025, with millions of Brits now buying Bitcoin and altcoins through regulated platforms. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) closely monitors the industry, ensuring that exchanges follow strict rules to protect investors. If you’re new to crypto, read our Complete Guide on Crypto in the UK, which covers everything from regulation to taxes and wallets. Once you’re ready to trade, choosing the best crypto exchange in the UK depends on what matters most to you — low fees, strong security, an easy app, or FCA registration. This guide compares the top platforms in the UK to help you trade safely and efficiently.

How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange in the UK

Before investing in crypto, it’s essential to understand how UK regulation and exchange features affect your experience. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting a safe and reliable crypto trading platform in the UK.

• FCA Registration: Only FCA-registered exchanges can legally offer crypto services to UK residents. The FCA requires exchanges to comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) standards. Always verify that an exchange appears on the FCA’s Cryptoasset Register.
• Security Measures: Choose platforms that use two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for user funds, and proof-of-reserves audits. These steps protect your assets from hacks and ensure the platform holds your coins securely.
• Fees: Consider maker/taker fees, spreads, and deposit/withdrawal costs. Even slight differences can significantly impact trading profits. For casual users, low-fee mobile apps like Revolut may suffice, while active traders might prefer Kraken’s transparent structure.
• Payment Methods: The best exchanges support GBP deposits via Faster Payments, debit cards, and bank transfers. Avoid platforms with limited or expensive funding options.
• Supported Coins & Features: Consider whether the exchange supports the cryptocurrencies you want to trade. Also, explore features like staking, recurring buys, and mobile apps.
• Self-Custody Wallets: While exchanges are convenient for buying and selling, they don’t guarantee crypto ownership. The safest option is to transfer your coins to a Tangem cold wallet or other self-custody solution.

Remember: Not your keys, not your coins.

Top 7 Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK (2025)

Here’s our ranking of the best crypto trading platforms in the UK for 2025, based on regulation, fees, security, and ease of use.

1. Coinbase – Best for Beginners

Coinbase is one of the world’s most recognized crypto exchanges and is FCA-registered for UK operations. It offers a clean interface, simple onboarding, and instant GBP deposits, making it ideal for beginners.

Pros:

• FCA-registered and compliant
• Excellent mobile app and user experience
• Wide selection of cryptocurrencies (250+)
• Educational content for new investors

Cons:

• Higher trading fees (up to 1.49%)
• Limited advanced tools on the basic app

Best For: Beginners buying their first Bitcoin or Ethereum.

2. Kraken – Best for Security & Advanced Traders

Kraken is known for institutional-grade security, low fees, and deep liquidity. It’s FCA-compliant and provides a standard and Pro version for advanced charting and API trading. Kraken is one of the few major exchanges with proof-of-reserves audits.

Pros:

• FCA-registered and compliant
• Powerful security record
• Low trading fees (0.16% / 0.26%)
• Supports staking and margin trading

Cons:

• Interface less beginner-friendly
• Limited GBP deposit methods

Best For: Experienced traders and security-conscious investors.

3. Gemini – Best for Regulation & Compliance

The Winklevoss twins founded Gemini, an FCA-registered exchange offering high regulatory standards and institutional-grade custody. It provides an elegant app and web experience, and stores all assets using robust security measures.

Pros:

• FCA-registered and highly regulated
• Excellent security and insurance coverage
• Supports recurring buys and secure storage

Cons:

• Trading fees are slightly higher than Kraken's
• Limited altcoin selection

Best For: Investors who prioritize safety and compliance.

4. Bitstamp – Best for European & UK Users

Founded in 2011, Bitstamp is one of the oldest crypto exchanges in the world. Based in Luxembourg and registered with the FCA, it’s a trusted choice for UK and EU traders. Bitstamp’s reputation for transparency and reliability makes it a strong contender for long-term investors.

Pros:

• Long-established and highly trusted
• FCA-registered and MiCA-ready
• Low trading fees (starting at 0.30%)
• Excellent liquidity for major coins

Cons:

• Interface feels dated
• Fewer altcoins than Coinbase

Best For: Serious investors who value trust and regulation.

5. Revolut – Best for Mobile & Beginners

Revolut is a UK fintech app that integrates crypto trading into its banking app, making buying Bitcoin and other assets directly from your GBP balance simple. It’s FCA-regulated as an e-money institution, though crypto services are registered separately.

Pros:

• Simple and convenient mobile experience
• Instant GBP deposits
• Supports 100+ cryptos
• Useful for small, recurring buys

Cons:

• Limited crypto withdrawals
• Higher spreads on trades

Best For: Mobile-first users and beginners looking for convenience.

6. eToro UK – Best for Social Trading

eToro is an FCA-regulated multi-asset platform offering crypto alongside stocks, ETFs, and commodities. Its CopyTrader feature allows users to mirror professional traders’ strategies, making it ideal for learning and diversification.

Pros:

• FCA-regulated
• Copy trading and social features
• Supports multiple asset types
• Easy-to-use web and mobile apps

Cons:

• Higher withdrawal fees (£3.85)
• Limited crypto-to-crypto pairs

Best For: Investors who want to mix crypto with traditional assets.

7. Binance (Limited in the UK) – Best for Low Fees (Restrictions Apply)

Binance remains one of the largest global exchanges but faces restrictions in the UK. It isn’t directly registered with the FCA so that UK residents can access Binance only through partnered payment solutions, such as Rebuildingsociety.com. Despite this, it still offers low fees and a robust trading interface.

Pros:

• Extremely low trading fees (0.1%)
• Wide selection of coins and features
• Advanced trading options

Cons:

• Limited GBP support
• Not directly FCA-registered

Best For: Advanced users comfortable with regulatory limitations.

Comparison Table – Best UK Crypto Exchanges (2025)

Fees on UK Crypto Exchanges

When comparing crypto exchange fees in the UK, consider three key cost areas:

Trading Fees (Maker/Taker)

Most exchanges charge a maker/taker fee between 0.1% and 1.5%.

• Kraken: 0.16% / 0.26%
• Bitstamp: 0.30%
• Coinbase: Up to 1.49%

Deposit & Withdrawal Fees

GBP deposits are typically free via Faster Payments, but card payments may incur 1.5–3% fees. Withdrawals can also carry small charges depending on your bank.

Spreads & Hidden Costs

Some platforms, especially mobile-first ones like Revolut, include spreads in their prices. Before confirming a trade, compare the actual buy/sell rates to market averages.

Safety & Regulation of UK Crypto Exchanges

• FCA Oversight: The Financial Conduct Authority regulates crypto businesses in the UK for AML compliance. Exchanges must register and adhere to strict operational rules. You can verify this on the FCA Cryptoasset Register.
• Proof-of-Reserves & Custody: Platforms like Kraken and Bitstamp publish proof-of-reserves audits, confirming that they fully back customer assets.
• Risks of Unregulated Exchanges: Unregulated platforms, including Binance’s central global entity, operate under restrictions and cannot promote crypto services in the UK. Using them may limit your rights or access to GBP deposits.

Alternatives to Crypto Exchanges in the UK

While exchanges are the easiest way to buy crypto, there are other options worth considering:

• Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Platforms: P2P marketplaces allow users to trade directly with one another. However, these can pose higher scam risks.
• Bitcoin ATMs: There are still some Bitcoin ATMs in the UK, but fees are typically 5–10%, making them less attractive.
• Self-Custody Wallets: Transfer your assets to a Tangem cold wallet for maximum control and security. Tangem’s NFC-enabled card wallets are completely offline, Immune to exchange hacks, and Ideal for long-term storage.

Secure your Bitcoin with a Tangem wallet – because actual ownership means self-custody. If you want to learn how to safely buy and store your first Bitcoin, see our step-by-step guide on How to Buy Bitcoin in the UK.

Future of Crypto Exchanges in the UK

The UK’s crypto landscape in 2025 is evolving rapidly:

• The FCA is tightening marketing and compliance rules, pushing for more transparency.
• The Digital Pound (Britcoin) project continues development, signaling mainstream adoption.
• Institutional investors are entering the market through regulated exchanges and ETFs.

As a result, UK traders can expect a safer, more mature ecosystem with greater regulatory oversight. Regulated exchanges and self-custody solutions like Tangem will remain the cornerstone of responsible crypto ownership.

FAQ – Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK

What is the safest crypto exchange in the UK?

Kraken and Gemini are the safest due to strong FCA compliance and robust security frameworks.

Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees in the UK?

Binance (via limited UK access) and Bitstamp offer the lowest fees, typically below 0.30%.

Can I use Binance in the UK?

Yes, but with restrictions. Binance operates via third-party partners and is not FCA-registered, so GBP deposits are limited.

What is the most popular crypto app in the UK?

Coinbase and Revolut are the most downloaded crypto apps among UK users.

Is Coinbase better than Kraken in the UK?

• For beginners, Coinbase is easier to use.
• For professionals, Kraken offers lower fees and advanced features.

Final Thoughts

The best crypto exchange in the UK depends on your goals and experience. Coinbase and Revolut are ideal for beginners seeking simplicity. Kraken and Gemini stand out for their top-tier security and FCA compliance, Bitstamp offers a trusted, low-fee option for long-term investors, eToro appeals to social traders, and Binance remains attractive for its low fees, though limited in the UK. Regardless of where you trade, always transfer your crypto to a Tangem cold wallet for true self-custody and long-term safety — not your keys or coins.