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How to access BBC iPlayer for free from anywhere in the world

Bypass geo-restrictions to access all your favourite shows.
By Joseph Green  on 
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TL;DR: ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking free streaming services. Access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.


BBC iPlayer is one of those annoying streaming services that recognises your location when you attempt to stream, and blocks your access if you're connecting from outside the UK. Geo-restrictions are a pain, but there's a workaround that can secure your access from anywhere in the world.

If you want to access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock BBC iPlayer for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK. This quick and easy process tricks sites like BBC iPlayer into providing you with access from anywhere in the world.

Unblock and watch BBC iPlayer by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Stream on BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most of the best VPNs do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're travelling or just want to watch a particular show or sporting event.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

The best service for unblocking BBC iPlayer is ExpressVPN, for a number of reasons:

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  • Servers in 94 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy

  • Fast streaming speeds

  • Up to five simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This discounted plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and that 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unblock BBC iPlayer for free with ExpressVPN.

Photo of Joseph Green
Joseph Green
Global Shopping Editor

Joseph Green is the Global Shopping Editor for Mashable. He covers VPNs, headphones, fitness gear, dating sites, streaming services, and shopping events like Black Friday and Prime Day.

Joseph is also Executive Editor of Mashable's sister site, AskMen.


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