Best Live Betting Sites for UK Punters in 2025
Live betting sites help you keep one eye on the action, the other on the odds. From late goals to match-point swings, in-play betting gives you more ways to read and ride the momentum. Check out our top picks for in-play betting on football, tennis, cricket, and more.
Top Bookies for Live Betting
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We’ve tested the speed, markets, and mobile experience across the top UK betting sites to see who really delivers in-play. Below are the standout names for sharp odds, smooth apps, and reliable action across a mix of live sports.
Overall Best Live Betting Site in the UK: Sky Bet
Although there are many great features on the site, Sky Bet’s main advantage is its combination of live stats and streaming. While matches are happening, you receive up-to-the-minute information, like shots, possession, and expected goals, shown next to the odds. Plus, for certain football and horse racing events, the Bet & Watch feature allows you to stream matches right after placing a qualifying bet.
The entire live betting section is well organised, and as we detail in our Sky Bet review, it is compatible with most devices. You can filter markets by goals, BTTS, and match results using quick toggles, with odds updating smoothly mid-play. From Premier League to lesser-known leagues like the Bangalore Super Division or Fijian matches, the range is significantly deep.
Other sports covered in-play include football, tennis, cricket, snooker, table tennis, volleyball, and esports, with coverage across national and international events. Sky Bet does fall short on multi-view functionality, so you can’t monitor multiple events side by side. Nevertheless, its range of bonus offers and smooth in-play betting options more than make up for this.
- Integrated live streaming & stats
- Broad live betting market range
- Covers niche leagues in-play
- No multi‑view on many events
Live Odds 4.8/5 Range of Markets 4.8/5 Withdrawal Speed 4.9/5 Welcome Offer 3 x £10 Bet Tokens UKGC Licence Number 38718 One of the Best Live Football Betting Sites Online: William Hill
William Hill’s key strength lies in its wide live football market depth, and as one of the best football betting sites in the country, you’ll find dozens of in-play options per match. These range from Match Result and Over/Under Goals to Corners, Bookings, and Player Stats. What sets it apart is how quickly these markets update as the game unfolds, giving you the flexibility to react to momentum shifts with precision.
The live platform supports many other sports, including tennis, cricket, table tennis, snooker, esports, and even badminton. Odds refresh rapidly across all events, and there’s a clean filter system to sort by sport. While the layout is a bit busier than some rivals, it’s feature-rich and functional, especially for football bettors who want all the key markets in one place.
Streaming is available via Betting TV, allowing you to follow select horse and greyhound racing, with other events accessible depending on availability. Moreover, stats are integrated for most matches, and William Hill promo codes can sometimes unlock in-play betting bonuses.
- Dozens of live football markets
- Fast odds refresh & wide sports range
- In-depth stats across match types
- Limited streaming beyond football and racing
Live Odds 4.8/5 Range of Markets 4.7/5 Withdrawal Speed 4.9/5 Welcome Offer Stake £10 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets UKGC Licence Number 39225 Best for Live Cricket Betting: JeffBet
JeffBet groups live cricket matches in a dedicated section, allowing access to competitive odds for both major and minor leagues. Live markets include Match Winner, Innings Runs, Over-by-Over Totals, and Odd/Even specials. What’s more, its depth for T20 and ODIs rivals long-established bookies, so you can look forward to a genuinely detailed in-play experience.
In addition to being one of the top betting sites for cricket, JeffBet covers football, tennis, basketball, volleyball and more, with odds updating quickly mid-match. Using the event view, you can keep key stats front and centre, viewing scoreboards and ball-by-ball updates in real time. Navigation, meanwhile, is straightforward, and the mobile site handles live market changes without lag.
JeffBet does not yet provide live streaming, relying instead on animated visualisations and real-time scoring. Promotions, meanwhile, are available regularly, with dedicated cricket cashback and free bets for top events, including international test series and major T20 tournaments.
- Outstanding cricket market depth
- Fast and responsive in-play odds
- Clear event view with live stats
- No dedicated Android or iOS apps
Live Odds 4.8/5 Range of Markets 4.7/5 Withdrawal Speed 4.8/5 Welcome Offer Bet £10 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets UKGC Licence Number 39335 Popular Site For In-Play Betting on Tennis: 888sport
888sport shines as a top choice for tennis live betting, with a hub stacked with ATP, WTA, Challenger, and ITF events. Navigation is intuitive, and as one of the top betting sites for tennis, all bets and promos are available on mobile. In addition, markets go well beyond Match Winner as you’ll find Game-by-Game, Set Betting, Total Games, and Next-Point specials that update instantly during rallies.
Beyond tennis, 888sport has grown into one of the best sites for live golf betting odds, offering competitive prices on major as well as smaller tournaments. Its in-play dashboard delivers live score tracking with a clear set and game progress, while odds refresh with minimal delay. Moreover, multi-match browsing is smooth, and the mobile site keeps navigation fast even when switching between live courts.
Streaming is limited, so you won’t find widespread live video for every tennis event. However, as far as promotions go, tennis is often included. Oftentimes, no 888sport promo codes are required, but most offers are subject to an initial wager or qualifying deposit.
- Extensive tennis in-play markets
- Quick, reliable odds updates
- Easy-to-use mobile site
- Limited tennis live streaming coverage
Live Odds 4.8/5 Range of Markets 4.7/5 Withdrawal Speed 4.7/5 Welcome Offer Bet £10 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets UKGC Licence Number 39028 Recommended Site for Live Darts Betting: Paddy Power
Paddy Power earns its spot as one of the best darts bookies, with fast market updates and solid event coverage. Matches are easy to locate via a dedicated section, and the in-play hub features live legs, match stats, and a good variety of dart-specific bets. Depending on the event, you’ll find live markets on Correct Score, Total 180s, Checkout Ranges, and Leg-by-Leg Winners, all refreshing quickly as games progress.
The broader in-play setup covers football, tennis, basketball, snooker, and more, with responsive odds and a layout that prioritises speed. The platform also includes pre-set accumulators, cash-out options, and smart market grouping that helps reduce faff when navigating during busy events.
As you’ll find in our Paddy Power review, live streaming is available across sports, including tennis, and occasionally, darts. Promotions may also sometimes include this niche sport, with free bets or prize draws linked to upcoming tournaments or other popular events.
- Great in-play darts market depth
- Fast leg-by-leg bet updates
- Solid multi-sport in-play coverage
- Few promotions covering niche sports
Live Odds 4.8/5 Range of Markets 4.7/5 Withdrawal Speed 4.6/5 Welcome Offer Wager £5 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets UKGC Licence Number 39439 Best In-Play Bookmakers at a Glance
Bookmaker Live Horse Racing Live Streaming Multi-View Screen Fast/Quick Bets Partial Cash Out Sky Bet ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ William Hill ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ JeffBet ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅ 888sport ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ Paddy Power ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ BoyleSports ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Betfair ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ Virgin Bet ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Betfred ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Parimatch ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ What is a Live Betting Option?
In-play bets at live betting bookmakers let you place wagers while the action is unfolding. As such, odds update in real-time based on what’s happening in the match.
In the screenshot above, Sky Bet shows a live tennis doubles match. You can see current scores, stats like aces and break points, and a visual court tracker. In addition, live betting odds are displayed beside each team.
Both pairings are currently priced at 5/6, meaning it’s seen as an even contest. What’s more, by clicking the Watch Live button, you can stream the match live for free.
Popular Live Bet Types
Before diving into live betting, it’s worth brushing up on how odds work in sports betting to understand how prices move during live games. With that knowledge, you’ll better understand the most popular live bet types across various sports.
Next Team to Score
This market lets you bet on which team will score the next goal or point. It’s especially popular for basketball or live football betting, where momentum swings fast.
⚽ Next Team to Score Example: If Arsenal is piling on pressure, you might back them on Premier League betting sites to bag the next goal before the odds shorten.
Match Winner
This is the classic outcome bet, but placed once the match is already underway. Live odds constantly shift in response to key events like goals, red cards, injuries, or dominant possession spells.
🎾 Match Winner Example: Using tennis live betting sites, you could back Naomi Osaka mid-set during a WTA Wuhan match if you think she’s gaining momentum after breaking serve and showing strong body language.
Over/Under Totals
This bet type revolves around the total points, goals, or games in a match. You predict whether the total will go over or under a set line that updates as the game progresses.
⛳ Over/Under Totals Example: You might back Rory Mcllroy to make over 3.5 birdies during his second round on one of the UK’s golf betting sites during The Open is he’s striking the ball well early.
Correct Score
A high-risk, high-reward option where you bet on the exact final score. During live play, the options narrow, resulting in an increase in value.
🏉 Correct Score Example: During a Six Nations clash where England lead Scotland 18‑10, you could back a 25‑18 full‑time result if England’s attack looks likely to grab a late try.
Next Point/Game Winner
Found mostly in tennis and volleyball, this market lets you predict the winner of the next individual point or game. It’s ideal for those following a game closely and are ready to react to changing momentum.
🏐 Next Point/Game Winner Example: In a FIVB World Championship match between Italy and Brazil, you might back Italy to win the next point if they’ve just brought on a strong server. This is especially true if Brazil is showing signs of disorganisation in reception.
Time of Next Goal
This live market lets you bet on whether a goal will be scored within a specific time frame, such as the next five or 10 minutes. Live betting odds reflect the flow of the game, pressure patterns, and attacking intent.
🏒 Time of Next Goal Example: In an NHL clash between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, you might back a goal in the next five minutes if both teams are trading attacks and penalties are starting to open up the ice.
Winning Margin
With this market, you’re predicting how many points or goals the winning team will finish ahead by. It’s common in live basketball betting, where swings are rapid but patterns often emerge.
🏀 Winning Margin Example: In an NBA game between the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat, you might back the Bucks to win by 11–15 points if they’re controlling the tempo and have built a double-digit lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Player to Score Next
This market is all about instinct, timing, and player form. You choose which player will net the next goal or point, and as such, it’s a popular market for American football, cricket, and football on live betting sites.
🏏 Player to Score Next Example: In an IPL match between the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, you might back Suryakumar Yadav to score the next run if he’s just come to the crease and looks settled after a few confident strokes.
Live vs Pre-Match Bets
There’s a world of difference between placing a bet before an event starts and jumping in once it’s already underway. Pre-match betting gives you more time to research, weigh up the stats, and lock in prices. Live betting, on the other hand, rewards quick thinking and sharp observation as odds shift fast and opportunities are fleeting.
Both have their place in the world of sports betting, but they suit different punters, strategies, and sports. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect from each:
Feature Live Betting Pre-Game Betting Match Winner Odds Available Available Player to Score Next Odds Available Not Available Time to Research Almost None Plenty of Time Odds Movement Dynamic Mostly Fixed Cash Out Available Not Available Best Live Bookie Features
The top live betting sites go beyond the basics and offer extra tools that really make your wagering experience stand out. From slick mobile tools to real-time updates, these features help you stay one step ahead when betting in-play.
Feature How it Works Live Streaming Watch selected sports, including football, racing, and tennis, directly through the bookie in real time. Live streaming can be used instead of watching a match on a classic TV sports channel. Quick Bet Place a wager with a single tap, skipping the betslip stage. This speeds up your reaction to fast-moving odds. Instant Cash Out Settle your bet before the event finishes, locking in a profit or limiting a loss. Instant cash out is often available mid-play. Stats & Data Real-time stats, heat maps, possession, and expected goals (xG). These tools are very helpful for reading the flow of the match. Multi View Track multiple live events at once on one screen. This tool is ideal for busy matchdays and available on a growing number of in-play betting sites. Instant Updates Visual trackers refresh every few seconds, providing a useful alternative to live streaming when you still want to follow the action. Custom Bet Builders Build your own in-play accas with selected markets like goals, cards, and corners while the game is live. Bet & Watch Access Place a small qualifying bet to unlock streaming on selected matches. This feature is especially well-suited for live horse race betting, where races are over quickly. Sports Suited to Live Bets
Live betting works best with sports that offer constant action, shifting dynamics, or plenty of data points. From football to snooker, in-play odds, available at the best live betting sites, give you the chance to react in real time as matches unfold.
Football
Football is tailor-made for in-play betting, thanks to its pace, global reach, and constant fluctuations in play. Popular live markets include Next Goal, Match Result, Over/Under Corners, and Booking Points. William Hill and other top live betting sites for this sport also offer specialised options, such as Goal in the Next 10 Minutes and Player to Be Carded.
Tennis
Tennis live betting thrives on its set-based structure and rapid scoring changes. Popular markets, such as Game Winner, Set Betting, Next Point, and Aces Over/Under, are fast-moving and ideal for punters who follow the rhythm of the match. The ability to bet between points gives you a constant edge as long as you’re watching the action closely.
Cricket
With so many formats, including T20s, ODIs, and Tests, cricket gives punters loads of in-play betting opportunities. Some of the markets available across live cricket betting sites include Player to Score Next, Over-by-Over Runs, Fall of Next Wicket, or Team Runs in 10 Overs. Top bookies also display ball-by-ball updates and updated odds that respond to every delivery.
Boxing & MMA
Live betting in combat sports is growing fast, especially during major UFC and title fights. Using top boxing betting sites, you can bet on Round Winner, Fight to Go the Distance, or Method of Victory mid-bout. Some operators also offer special bets, including Knockdown in This Round and Total Strikes, during high-profile fights.
Rugby
Rugby’s fast tempo and shifting field position make it a great fit for in-play wagers. Live odds are available at 888sport and JeffBet, among other operators, for Try Scorer, Next Team to Score, and Winning Margin. Other unique markets include Team to Lead at Half but Lose and Total Tries by a Specific Player.
Darts
With quickfire legs and changing player performance, darts is one of the most underrated sports for live betting. For most games, top darts betting sites offer odds on Next 180, Total Legs, Checkout Over/Under, and Match Result by Set. The appeal of live darts betting lies in how rapidly markets update, as it allows you to react to shifting confidence, scoring streaks, or missed doubles almost instantly.
F1 & Motorsports
Motorsports have embraced in-play betting through live stats and track position data. Markets at top sites, including Betfred and BoyleSports, include Podium Finish, Fastest Lap, Safety Car in Next 5 Laps, and Next Driver to Retire. F1 live odds shift quickly based on pit stops, tyre choices, and mechanical issues.
Snooker
Snooker live betting gives punters the chance to react frame by frame. Markets such as Total Points in a Frame, Next Pot Colour, and Player to Win Frame are commonly featured. Virgin Bet, and other features sites, also offer stats like pot success rate and long pot accuracy to guide your picks.
Sports Less Suited to Live Betting
Some sports just don’t lend themselves well to in-play wagering. Whether it’s due to speed, format, or limited markets, here are a few that struggle in the live arena:
- Horse Racing: Races are over in under two minutes, leaving almost no time for real-time decisions. Moreover, odds fluctuate too rapidly, making it hard to place informed bets mid-race.
- Greyhound Racing: Even quicker than horse racing, greyhound events typically last less than 60 seconds. As such, there’s no practical window for meaningful live markets to form.
- Athletics: Track events are short and linear, with little happening beyond who’s ahead. Field events are turn-based and slower, but rarely feature live odds due to limited betting interest.
- Cycling: While longer in duration, cycling is difficult to cover live due to constant positional shifts, team tactics, and limited televised data. Only major races offer occasional in-play options, such as Stage Winner or Next Breakaway.
Using Betting Offers on Live Markets
Many of the best live betting sites let you use betting offers on in-play markets, but there are a few terms to keep in mind. While free bets, profit boosts, and cashback offers can add value, some promos come with restrictions that limit their usefulness once the action is underway.
- Free Bets: You can often use free bets on live events, but not always on niche markets, such as Next Goal or Over/Under Corners. They usually apply to major sports like football, tennis, and cricket.
- Boosted Odds: Some bookies offer daily odds boosts that apply to in-play markets. They’re usually predefined markets at UFC betting sites, or football bookies and are worth using when timed well.
- Cashback Promotions: These are useful on live bets that have longer odds or higher volatility. For example, you might get your stake back as a free bet if your in-play wager loses by a narrow margin.
Watch for limits on minimum odds, eligible markets, or mobile-only use. Many offers exclude in-play bets unless stated otherwise, so always check the T&Cs. Moreover, look for bookies that offer in-play specific promos, such as free bets if your team leads at half-time but loses, or live bet insurance during top events.
Live Betting Apps for October
The best live betting experiences aren’t just on desktop anymore. Whether you’re tracking a tennis tie-break or placing a last-minute football bet, the top UK betting apps deliver fast, feature-rich in-play tools right to your mobile.
Live Betting Apps Live Streaming Welcome Offer UKGC Number Sky Bet Yes 3 x £10 Bet Tokens 38718 William Hill Yes Stake £10 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets 39225 888sport Yes Bet £10 to Unlock £30 in Free Bets 39028 Key In-Play Betting Rules & Terms
Wagering on the best in-play betting sites can be fast-paced and full of opportunity, but it also follows a strict set of rules. If you’re just getting started, check out our sports betting guides and familiarise yourself with the following terms and regulations:
- Suspended Market: When a critical event happens, such as a goal or a red card, the market is briefly suspended. You won’t be able to place or cash out bets until the bookie recalculates the odds.
- Bet Delay: Most live bets come with a short delay of about three to eight seconds. This helps prevent unfair advantages based on TV or streaming lag.
- Cash Out Unavailable: Sometimes your cash out option will temporarily disappear. This often occurs when odds are shifting too fast or a major incident has just occurred.
- Live Bet Limits: Maximum stakes on in-play bets are usually lower than pre-match ones. However, these limits vary by operator, sport, market, and your account history.
- Price Change Alert: If odds change while you’re placing your bet, you’ll see a prompt asking you to accept the new price before it’s confirmed.
- Settlement Time: While bets at the best live sports betting sites are settled quickly, some, including player-specific markets, may take longer due to stats verification or result disputes.
Effective Live Betting Tips & Advice
Betting on live events gives you the chance to react in real time, but smart decisions still rely on preparation, timing, and awareness. Below are five genuinely useful tips to help you approach in-play betting like a pro.
Responsible Gambling
Live betting adds excitement, but it also makes it easier to lose track of time, stakes, and judgment. That’s why responsible gambling is essential, not just for limiting risk, but for keeping betting enjoyable and in control.
Responsible Gambling Tool What it Does When to Use it Deposit Limit Set a cap on how much you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly Well-suited to help you manage your spending Time-Out Temporarily suspend your access to betting accounts for a set period When betting starts to feel impulsive Reality Check Pop-up alerts showing how long you’ve been betting and how much you’ve wagered Best for staying mindful during live sessions If these and other safer gambling tools are not enough, you should consider reaching out to any of the following UK-based organisations:
- GamCare – Free advice and counselling available on their website and via live chat.
- BeGambleAware – Tools, tips, and self-assessment designed to support problem gamblers and their loved ones.
- TalkBanStop – A free support programme combining blocking tools and expert help.
FAQs
Do all live betting sites have live streaming?Not all bookies offering in-play bets let you watch matches or races live. Some only offer animated visuals or live stats to help while live horse racing betting or wagering on football. If watching the action is important to you, choose platforms with lots of streaming services, such as Sky Bet and William HillWhat is live betting Quick Bet?Quick Bet lets you place wagers instantly with one tap during a match. It’s ideal for fast-moving markets where delays can mean missed odds or opportunities. This feature is available on many of the featured sites and live betting apps, but may not be found across all sports.How does live betting work in horse racing?Once a race begins, select bookmakers allow live horse racing betting for a short window. Odds reflect real-time action but are usually suspended near the finish line to ensure fairness and prevent late insights from influencing bets.Which live betting bookie shows horse racing?Several UK bookmakers offer live horse racing streams, including Sky Bet, William Hill, Betfair, BoyleSports, and Paddy Power. These sites provide coverage for UK and Irish races, with some also including international meetings. To stream live, your account must be funded or you must have placed a qualifying bet.How do betting sites know live scores so fast?Bookies use official data feeds and third-party sports monitoring services. These updates are pushed to the site’s servers in real time, which is why football, tennis, and live cricket betting sites can offer ball-by-ball accuracy during matches.What is a football live betting option?A football live betting option is a market that opens after an event has begun. Odds change as the game unfolds, with examples including Next Player to score or next carded team.Resources
This article has been Fact-checked by Darragh Harbinson
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