Gambling online in the UK
The UK is world class when it comes to online casinos. Many of the top names are born in England and have since taken over the online gambling world. Although the US is the country with the largest amount of casinos, the UK without doubt has the strongest gambling culture. There is no other place in the world where it’s possible to gamble just about anywhere, anytime. Not just online!
The Gaming Act of 1968 was the first official regulation to manage the trend of gambling in the UK. In 2005 when online casinos first emerged, the UK quickly put in place the Gambling Act of 2005. This liberal regulation welcomed the further growth of online casinos. To operate in the UK legally, online casinos are required to have a license. This has resulted in increased increasing trust with customers. They know that when the website has a license retrieved in the UK, they can gamble safely.
The online games
There is no question that gambling online has become easier, safer and more fun. While we used to sit behind our computer screen, we can now play casino games from our couch. Or even on our mobile phone. Classic games such as roulette, poker and blackjack are widely available to play on different devices. It’s not just the classic games that are readily available, also many other popular games such as Starburst and Cleopatra, as well as progressive jackpot games like the Mega Moolah. The latter is a favourite of many online casino players and it’s easy to understand why. Massive wins have been generated over the past few years in the UK. For example £13.2m won by John Heywood, the biggest online jackpot win ever recorded.
Live casinos
Nowadays live casino’s have become very popular. This is a recent trend, but one that will continue to grow. In a live casino, players get to sit at a table and play a game such as Poker or Blackjack just like in a ‘real’ casino. Croupiers and dealers lead the game and players simply take place on the table, place their bets play. Although there is some doubt if live casino’s can be trusted, increasing security measures and strict licensing for online casinos protect the player. It’s nevertheless smart to double check whether your live casino has the right licenses.
Money deposit
To start playing any game and win real money, you’re required to deposit money. Depending on the online casino, there usually is a minimum amount to deposit. There are various ways to do so. You can use your credit card or a so called ‘online wallet’. Online casino’s are subjected by strict laws and you can trust your details will be handled with care. Depositing money only takes seconds and lets you play instantly. If you’re lucky, you might even receive a nice bonus after your first deposit. Many online casino’s do this for new players, so keep an eye out on deals. In recent times, some online casinos have introduced other ways to deposit ‘money’, for example through Bitcoin.
Play without real money
If you’re not sure yet how a particular game works, there are many ways to practice first without real money. This way you get to learn how to game works, minus the risk of losing money. The only downside ofcourse is that you can’t win real money either. Nevertheless it’s a great way to get to know a game and develop your tactics. Then you can invest your money in a real game with more confidence.
Licenses in the UK
Like mentioned above, the UK is one of the pioneers when it comes to licenses. Not only are they very strict when it comes to giving out the licenses, there is a strong emphasis on the protection of the player. Before you play at an online casino, double check it has the license. You can usually find this when scrolling to the bottom of the online casino website. There you will find a logo for example of the gambling commission. If possible, click on it and read the details.
Bonusses
Many casinos and games give out bonusses to their players. This bonus can involve extra play money or free spins. Examples of bonusses are a welcome bonus or a deposit bonus. The first one is a little treat for new players after they sign up. The deposit bonus is some extra money you receive after depositing money. When you play certain games, you can receive a bonus as well. That happens when you get certain symbols on the reels and sometimes even at random.
Free spins
Aside from a welcome bonus, free spins are another gift many new players receive at a casino. Not every casino has the same deals, so it’s smart to check what the benefits are given out by each casino. Free spins are a great way to try out many casino games without having to spend your own money. But there is a little twist: sometimes the money you win with free spins is subjected to certain conditions. It’s good to be a little cautious with any extras you receive at an online casino. But generally free spins are excellent to increase your winning chances.
Casinos in The UK
The UK has about 130 casinos, a large amount compared to many other European countries. This number doesn’t count the many betting shops, some of which have a large enough slot assortment to be experienced as a casino. The most lavish ones you’ll find in London, but also Manchester and Birmingham have world-class casinos that draw visitors from all over the world. The largest casino chains in the UK are Genting and Grosvenor, which both have many different locations. Some of them are open 24 hours, others have hours from 12:00pm to 05.00am. Just double check it online, but in most areas you’ll find a casino that is open around the clock.
Playing online
Many of the prominent UK casinos also have an online casino. Although it’s fun to experience the hustle and bustle of a real casino, playing online has its advantages. You can play anywhere and anytime, even during your daily commute or from your lazy chair. Online players also receive bonusses and free spins regularly, an extra advantage to playing online.
Concluding
The UK has great casinos, both online and in real life. Licenses protect the player from malicious practices, so double check this to enjoy online betting comfortably. Many online casinos give you bonusses as a new player, so take advantage of it while it lasts!