Sports betting is part of the culture and lifestyle in the United Kingdom (UK). Some individuals will bet a few times per year in the big sports tournaments such as the World Cup and the Grand National. However, the passionate fans will bet regularly in online sportsbooks or betting shops.
The UK legalized sports betting in 1961. Thanks to the legalization, sports betting shops are available in major cities in the UK now. Most of these shops are decorated attractively to serve like-minded individuals looking to bet sports.
There are about 8,000 betting shops licensed in the UK. William Hill, Paddy Power, and Ladbrokes are home to the biggest name.
Besides the land-based shops, the UK gambling market includes online sports. This is a stress-free and convenient way for players to bet on sports. You can use mobile phones, PCs, and tablets to place bets.
There are many different sports where you can bet on. Of which, betting on football, tennis, and horse racing is the most popular form in the UK.
Football betting
Football betting is the most popular online transaction in the UK. The passionate fans also talk and predict about the football games at pubs and restaurants. They are also keen on the post-game analysis of football games on the TV. The Champion League is the most-followed football tournament among the UK bettors.
Tennis betting
Besides football, tennis is one of the most popular sports in the UK. As the home of Wimbledon and other famous players, tennis also attracts a wide range of fans, including those who want to bet on such sport. Bets are often placed on the leading tennis events that involve the top players.
Horse racing
The UK betting market had ever been dominated by horse racing for a long term. With the globalization of other sports, the popularity of horse racing has gradually dipped. The Grand National, Epsom Derby, and the Royal Ascot are some of the biggest sports racing events in the UK.