Online sports betting has grown in popularity over the years, and with that growth has come an increased focus on customer incentives and bonuses. One of the most popular incentives offered by bookmakers is the free bet. In this guide, we will take a closer look at what bookmaker free bets are, how they work, and how to use them to your advantage.
What Is a Free Bet?
A free bet is a valuable promotional offer bestowed by bookmakers to foster player loyalty and engagement. It represents a complimentary bonus of a specified value that enables you to place a bet at the issuing bookmaker. However, it’s important to note that free bets cannot be withdrawn as cash; they are exclusively used for betting purposes.
How Do Free Bets Work?
To make the most of free bets in the UK, you typically need to follow these steps:
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Account Activation: New players are often required to create a new account with the bookmaker, as these deals primarily target attracting new customers.
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Bonus Requirements: You might need to meet certain bonus requirements, such as registering a valid payment method, making a deposit, or placing a wager on a specific sports event.
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Wagering: When using a free bet, the winnings usually do not include the stake amount. For example, if you place a £10 free bet on an outcome with odds of 3/1, your winnings would be £30.
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Time Limit: Most free bet offers come with a time limit for redemption, typically around 30 days.
How to Acquire Free Bets
Online bookmakers provide free bets through various promotions. Here are some of the most common ways to acquire them:
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Welcome Offers: When you open a new betting account, bookmakers may offer free bets as a part of the welcome package. To activate your account with a free bet, you often need to make an initial deposit, usually ranging from £5 to £10.
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Free Bet Clubs: Some bookmakers offer free bets when you meet specific betting criteria, such as placing a certain number of regular bets.
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Insurance Offers: These offers let you get your stake back as a free bet if a specific scenario occurs, like a football match ending 0-0.
Types of Free Bet Offers
Bookmakers offer different variations of free bets, and the best ones usually come from prominent brands like Bet365 and Paddy Power. Here are some common types of free bets:
1. Matched Free Bet
This is the most common free bet type. When you place a bet, the bookmaker matches it with a free bet of the same value. For instance, if you place a £10 bet, you receive a £10 free bet.
2. Matched Deposit
Instead of matching your bet, this offer matches the deposit you make when opening an account. For instance, if you deposit £50, you might receive £50 in free bets.
3. Enhanced Odds Bonus
Enhanced odds offers provide you with significantly higher odds for a specific selection, often as your first bet with a new account. These odds can go as high as 100/1.
4. No Deposit Free Bets
These are complimentary free bets that don’t require you to make a deposit or place a wager. While they are usually smaller in value, they are entirely free.
5. Cash Back Free Bets
With cash back free bets, if your bet loses under specific conditions, you receive your stake back as cash, allowing you to try again.
Free Bet Offers vs. Bonus Offers
While free bet offers and bonus offers may seem similar, they have a few key differences. Bonus offers provide more flexibility as they can be used for multiple bets, making them suitable for beginners. Additionally, some bonuses can be used for casino, bingo, and poker.
Understanding the Terms and Conditions
Reading and understanding the terms and conditions of free bets is crucial. Key points to consider include:
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Expiry Date: Free bets often have a limited timeframe for use, so make sure you use them before they expire.
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Maximum Winnings: Some offers may have a cap on the winnings you can generate from free bets.
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Minimum Odds Requirements: Certain bets may require minimum odds to qualify for free bets.
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Minimum Deposit Requirements: Some offers may require a minimum deposit, even if you don’t need to bet it all to receive free bets.
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Accepted Payment Methods: Ensure you use an eligible payment method to claim your free bets.
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Crediting Time: Know when you will receive your free bets; some bookmakers credit them immediately, while others do so after bet settlement.
Choosing the Right Free Bet Offer
When selecting a free bet offer, consider the following:
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Deposit Amount: How much do you need to deposit to get the biggest free bet bonus?
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Bet Requirements: Are there specific betting requirements to claim the bonus?
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Crediting Time: Will free bets be credited immediately to your account?
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Time Restrictions: Check if there are any time limitations for placing your free bets.
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Wagering Restrictions: Be aware of any turnover requirements that could impact your access to the bonus funds.
Advantages of Free Bets
Free bets offer punters a chance to wager on high-odds selections without a significant initial investment. They present an exciting opportunity for substantial returns.
Disadvantages of Free Bets
While free bets are enticing, they come with certain limitations. The stake is not returned from free bets, and qualifying criteria can sometimes be challenging to achieve. Additionally, terms and conditions may be complex, and free bets can potentially encourage gambling more than intended.
Free Bets for the 2024 Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival, a pinnacle in horse racing, is a prime opportunity for free bet enthusiasts. This event sees bookmakers offering massive free bets, enhanced odds, and unique promotions to new players. It’s an excellent time to explore new bookmakers and make the most of these exclusive offers.
License and Safety
When engaging in free bets, ensure you do so with licensed and regulated bookmakers, such as those overseen by reputable authorities like the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority. Safety and responsible gambling are paramount in this industry.
Trusted and Proven
We’ve scoured the market to handpick the most trusted and proven betting partners in the UK. These bookmakers have earned their stripes through a track record of fair play, transparent terms, and outstanding customer service. You can rest assured that your betting experience will be a smooth and enjoyable one.
Fast Withdrawals
The thrill of winning is best enjoyed when you can swiftly and conveniently withdraw your funds. Our recommended bookmakers offer fast withdrawal options, ensuring you can access your winnings without delay. No one likes waiting, and we ensure you won’t have to.
Casino Bonuses
If casino gaming is more your style, we haven’t forgotten about you. Check out our casino bonuses section to find enticing offers for online casinos. These bonuses can help boost your gaming budget and enhance your chances of hitting it big.
Free Bets Without Deposit
For those who want to dip their toes into betting without making a deposit, our free bet no deposit page is the perfect destination. These offers allow you to place bets without risking your own funds, making it an excellent way to get started.
How to Find the Best Free Bets & Sign-Up Bonuses
For the most comprehensive and up-to-date free bet opportunities, take a look around BetRight.co.uk. We are your ultimate resource for discovering the latest free bets, bonus codes, and enhanced odds offers that will enhance your sports betting experience. We always prioritize your safety and responsible gambling.
Betfred – Claim £40 In Bonuses
Betfred, a well-known name in the world of sports betting, is ready to welcome you with open arms. By staking just £10 and using the promo code WELCOME40, you can get your hands on a generous £40 in bonuses. This offer is exclusively available to new UK customers aged 18 and above.
What sets Betfred apart is its commitment to providing a wide range of football markets. Whether you’re interested in the Premier League, Champions League, or even more niche competitions, you’ll find them all here. Plus, with the accessibility of their site, placing your bets has never been easier.
bet365 – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
For those seeking a reliable and popular betting platform, bet365 is a top choice. New customers can claim £30 in free bets by betting just £10. These free bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to the value of your qualifying deposit.
Bet365 boasts an extensive range of football markets and competitive odds. They also offer various payment methods to cater to your preferences. Whether you’re into pre-match betting or in-play action, bet365 has it all.
SkyBet – Get £30 In Free Bets
SkyBet offers a fantastic deal for new customers. By placing any bet with a minimum stake of 5p and odds of 1/1 or greater, you’ll receive 3 x £10 bet tokens. These free bet tokens are easy to use and enhance your betting experience.
SkyBet provides an array of football markets, and their user-friendly interface ensures that you can swiftly navigate through the site. Additionally, they offer virtuals for those who enjoy a little extra excitement.
BoyleSports – Bet £10, Get £10 in Free Bets + £10 Casino Bonus
BoyleSports welcomes new mobile customers (excluding NI) with a tempting offer. By staking £10, you’ll receive £10 in sports bets and a £10 casino bonus. This offer is valid for those aged 18 and above.
BoyleSports offers a wide variety of football markets, and their odds are competitive. Their user interface is intuitive, making it easy to place bets on your favourite football events. With a straightforward approach to bonuses and promotions, BoyleSports caters to both sports and casino enthusiasts.
Unibet – Money Back as Bonus up to £40 + £10 Casino Bonus
Unibet provides a unique offer for new customers. If your first sports bet loses, you’ll get your money back as a bonus up to £40, and there’s an additional £10 casino bonus on the table. The wagering requirements for the sportsbook bonus are fair, and the casino bonus adds extra value to your experience.
Unibet is known for its comprehensive coverage of football markets, including in-play betting options. They also offer a sleek and user-friendly interface, ensuring a smooth betting experience for punters of all levels.
BetVictor – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
BetVictor presents a straightforward offer for new customers. By betting £10 at odds of 2.00 or higher within 7 days, you’ll receive 6 x £5 free bets. These free bets can be used on events with odds of 2.00 or greater and have a 7-day expiry.
BetVictor’s platform is intuitive, and their wide selection of football markets ensures there’s something for every football enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a novice, BetVictor’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to get started.
Paddy Power – Bet £5 and Get £20 in Free Bets
Paddy Power tempts new customers with a fantastic offer. By placing a minimum £5 bet on the sportsbook at odds of at least EVS (2.0), you’ll receive £20 in free bets. These free bets are valid for 30 days, providing you with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the action.
Paddy Power’s betting site is well-designed, and their football market coverage is extensive. With a strong focus on customer experience, they make it easy for punters to find the bets they’re looking for.
talkSPORT BET – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
For new customers, talkSPORT BET has a simple and rewarding offer. By betting £10 on any sports at odds of 2.00 or higher within 7 days, you can get 3 x £10 free bets on selected markets. These free bets expire in 7 days, giving you ample time to explore your options.
TalkSPORT BET covers a wide range of football markets, and their user interface is designed with ease of use in mind. They offer a smooth betting experience, making it convenient to find and place bets on your preferred events.
BetUK – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
BetUK offers new customers an appealing deal. By depositing and placing a £10 minimum bet at odds of 4/5 (1.8) or greater, you’ll receive 3 x £10 free bets. These free bets are divided into categories, catering to horse racing, free bet builders, and football, ensuring you have options to explore.
BetUK’s website is user-friendly, and their football market selection is diverse. Whether you’re interested in specific leagues or major tournaments, BetUK has you covered.
SpreadEx – Bet £10, Get £40
SpreadEx has a straightforward offer for new customers. Join and place a £10 fixed odds bet at odds of 1/2 or greater, and you’ll receive a £10 free fixed odds bet, a £5 free Total Goals football spread bet, and a £5 racing Winning Favourites spread bet. These additional bets will be credited 24 hours later.
SpreadEx is a unique platform that offers both fixed odds and spread betting, allowing you to diversify your betting experience. Their user interface is intuitive, and the combination of fixed odds and spread betting opens up a world of opportunities for football punters.
10bet – 50% up to £50 Welcome Bonus
10bet welcomes new bettors with a generous 50% up to £50 welcome bonus when you use the bonus code PLAY10. To qualify, you’ll need to wager your deposit and bonus 8 times.
10bet provides a broad selection of football markets, and their competitive odds are sure to catch your attention. The user interface is easy to navigate, and their commitment to delivering a seamless betting experience shines through.
Parimatch – Bet £10, Get £30
Parimatch offers a straightforward deal for new customers. By opting in and betting £10 on football markets with odds of 2.00 or higher, you’ll receive 6 x £5 football free bets on specified markets. These free bets expire after 7 days, allowing you to enjoy multiple opportunities.
Parimatch provides an extensive selection of football markets, covering various leagues and competitions. Their user interface is designed with efficiency in mind, making it easy to find and place bets on your favourite events.
Coral – Get £20 in Free Bets when you bet £5
Coral bookmakers have a user-friendly offer for new UK and ROI customers. By depositing a minimum of £5 and placing a £5 bet at odds of 1/2 or higher, you’ll qualify for a £20 free bet. This free bet is valid for 7 days, giving you plenty of time to explore Coral’s offerings.
Coral’s website is well-structured, and their football market coverage is comprehensive. With an established reputation in the betting industry, Coral offers a reliable and enjoyable betting experience.
Ladbrokes – Bet £5, Get £20 in Free Bets
Ladbrokes welcomes new UK and Ireland customers with a straightforward offer. By placing your first £5 bet within 14 days of account registration at odds of 1/2 or higher, you’ll receive 4 x £5 free bets. These free bets can be used on selected sportsbook markets, providing you with ample options.
Ladbrokes’ website is user-friendly, and their football market coverage is impressive. With a strong focus on delivering value to punters, Ladbrokes is a top choice for football betting.
LiveScore Bet – Bet £10, Get £20 in Free Bets
For new members, LiveScore Bet has a compelling offer. By making a minimum deposit of £10 and placing a bet on the sportsbook at odds of 1.5 or higher within 14 days of sign-up, you’ll receive 2 non-withdrawable £10 Free Bet Tokens. These tokens are valid for 7 days, ensuring you have ample time to explore your options.
LiveScore Bet offers a straightforward betting experience, and their football market selection covers a range of leagues and competitions. If you’re a fan of simplicity and efficiency, LiveScore Bet has you covered.
Mr Play – Bet £10, Get £15 in free bets
Mr Play has a welcoming offer for new players. By depositing £10 and placing a bet at odds of 2.00 or higher, you’ll receive a £15 free bet. This free bet is valid for 14 days and is a great way to kick-start your betting journey.
Mr Play’s website is user-friendly, and their football market coverage is diverse. With a straightforward approach to bonuses and promotions, Mr Play caters to both sports and casino enthusiasts.
Betfair – Bet £5, Get £20 in Free Bets
Betfair provides a simple offer for new customers. By placing a minimum £5 bet on the Sportsbook at odds of at least 1/2 (1.5), you’ll get £20 in Free Bets. These rewards are valid for 30 days, giving you plenty of time to explore the world of Betfair.
Betfair is a well-established platform with a user-friendly interface and extensive football market coverage. They offer a variety of betting options, making it easy to find the bets that suit your preferences.
BetMGM – Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets
BetMGM has an enticing offer for new customers. You’ll have 3 days to claim and 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 to receive 4 x Free Bets: a £10 Horse racing bet, a £10 Free Bet Builder, a £10 Acca, and a £10 Football bet. These free bets provide you with an array of options to enhance your betting experience.
BetMGM offers a user-friendly website and a broad selection of football markets. Their platform is designed to cater to the needs of football punters, whether you’re a casual bettor or a seasoned pro.
SBK – Bet £10, Get £30 in free bets
SBK offers a straightforward and generous offer for new UK, IE, and Malta customers. By making a £10/€10 first deposit using a Debit Card and placing a £10/€10 bet at minimum odds of 1.5, you’ll receive £30/€30 in Free Bets.
SBK’s website is well-structured, and their football market coverage is comprehensive. They provide a seamless betting experience, making it easy to explore various betting options.
Virgin Bet – Bet £10, Get £20 in Free Bets
Virgin Bet has a simple and rewarding offer for new members. By making a £10 minimum deposit and betting on the sportsbook, you’ll receive 2 non-withdrawable £10 Free Bet Tokens. These tokens are valid for 7 days, allowing you to enjoy multiple betting opportunities.
Virgin Bet offers an intuitive website and a variety of football markets. Whether you’re into major tournaments or niche leagues, Virgin Bet has you covered.
Betway – £30 Matched Free Bet if your first Acca loses + 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza
Betway welcomes new UK customers with a generous offer. By placing your first bet of £10 on a Football or Horse Racing multiple with 3+ selections at odds of 2.00 or higher, you’ll get a £30 matched free bet if your first Acca loses. Additionally, you’ll receive 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza.
Betway provides a well-designed website and an extensive selection of football markets. With a focus on delivering value to punters, Betway offers a reliable and enjoyable betting experience.
QuinnBet – Bet £10, Get a £20 Free Bet
QuinnBet has a straightforward offer for new UK customers. By depositing and betting £10 on any Sportsbook markets of your choice today at odds of evens (2.00) or greater, you’ll receive a £20 Free Bet within 24 hours of your qualifying bet settling.
QuinnBet’s website is user-friendly, and their football market coverage is diverse. Whether you’re interested in specific leagues or major tournaments, QuinnBet has you covered.
William Hill – Bet £10, Get £40 in free bets (mobile only)
William Hill provides a mobile-exclusive offer for new customers. When you sign up via mobile using promo code P40 and place a bet of £10/€10 or more, you’ll receive 4 x £10/€10 free bets credited after the settlement of your first qualifying bet. These free bets will expire 7 days after the qualifying bet is placed.
William Hill is a well-established platform with a user-friendly mobile interface and extensive football market coverage. They offer a variety of betting options, making it easy to find the bets that suit your preferences.
CopyBet – Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets
CopyBet has a straightforward offer for verified UK clients. By starting with a £10 qualifying bet with odds of 1.5 or greater, you’ll receive 4 free bets that can be used one after another. Each free bet is valid for 7 days and can be used on pre-match or live bets. The maximum payout is £500, providing an opportunity to maximize your returns.
CopyBet offers a user-friendly platform with a focus on simplicity. Their football market coverage caters to a wide range of preferences, and their bonus structure is designed to provide value to punters.
Kwiff – Bet £10, Get a £30 Surprise Bet
Kwiff has an intriguing offer for new customers. With a minimum deposit of £10 and a qualifying real money bet of £10 at odds equal to or greater than 1.5, you’ll receive a surprise bet worth £30. This offer adds an element of excitement to your betting experience.
Kwiff’s website is designed for a seamless betting journey, and their football market selection is comprehensive. If you’re looking for a platform that offers a unique twist to your bets, Kwiff is an excellent choice.
Grosvenor – Double the Odds on your First Bet
Grosvenor extends a unique offer to new customers. With a maximum £10 bet, you’ll receive a 100% Odds Boost token, effectively doubling the odds on your first bet. This promotion allows you to potentially enhance your winnings.
Grosvenor’s website is user-friendly and caters to both beginners and experienced punters. They offer a wide range of football markets, and their Odds Boost feature adds an extra layer of excitement to your bets.
Hollywood Bets – Up to £30 Money back as Free Bets + 20 Free Spins
Hollywood Bets presents a tempting offer for new customers. Within 3 days of registration, place a minimum £10 qualifying bet at odds of 1.5 (1/2) as your first bet. If your first bet loses, place a second and third qualifying bet of £10 each on Racing Markets at odds of 1.5 (1/2). If those bets result in losses as well, you’ll receive up to £30 in Free Bets and 20 Free Spins.
Hollywood Bets offers a well-structured platform and an extensive selection of football markets. With the added benefit of Free Spins, you can enjoy both sports betting and casino gaming.
Bwin – £20 Backup Bet
Bwin has an enticing offer for new UK players. By placing a £10 sport bet with 3 or more selections at odds of 2/1 (3.0) or higher, you’ll receive a £20 Backup Bet for football only. This Backup Bet is valid for 7 days, providing you with insurance on your first bet.
Bwin offers a user-friendly website and a broad selection of football markets. With their Backup Bet, you can enjoy your betting experience with added confidence.
NetBet – Bet £5, Get £10 in Free Bets
NetBet provides a straightforward offer for new customers. Simply place a bet of £5 with minimum odds of 3/1 (4.00) and a minimum of 3 selections, and you’ll receive a £10 Free Bet. This Free Bet is valid for 7 days, allowing you to explore the diverse betting options on NetBet.
NetBet offers a well-structured platform and a comprehensive range of football markets. Whether you’re interested in major leagues or niche competitions, NetBet provides a satisfying betting experience.
Bzee Bet – Bet £10 and get a £10 free bet
Bzee Bet offers a simple and rewarding offer for new customers. By placing a qualifying bet of £10 at odds of 1/1 (2.00) or higher, you’ll receive a £10 Bonus Token. This Bonus Token can be used to enhance your future bets.
Bzee Bet provides a user-friendly platform and a diverse selection of football markets. With straightforward bonuses, they make it easy for punters to get the most out of their bets.
Midnite – Bet £10 And Get £20 In Free Bets
Midnite has a compelling offer for new UK customers. Bet £10 in total on accas with 4+ legs, each at minimum odds of 3/1 (4.0), and you’ll receive 4 x £5 Free Bets. These Free Bets are valid for 7 days and can be used on selected bets, providing you with ample choices.
Midnite offers a user-friendly website and a variety of football markets. Whether you’re into major tournaments or unique events, Midnite’s diverse market coverage caters to all preferences.
21luckybet – Bet £20 & Get £40 Free Bet
21luckybet welcomes new players with a generous offer. By making a qualifying bet of £20, you’ll receive a one-time £40 Free Bet. The Free Bet has a minimum odds requirement of 1.5 and is valid for 7 days, offering ample opportunities to explore your betting options.
21luckybet’s website is designed for ease of use, and their football market coverage is diverse. With this substantial Free Bet, you can make the most of your betting experience.
ThePools – Get £20 in Free Bets When you deposit and bet £10
ThePools has a straightforward offer for new customers. Deposit and bet £10 on your mobile, and you’ll receive 2 x £10 free bets when you register. These free bets have minimum odds of Evens and are credited by midday the day after bet settlement.
ThePools provides a user-friendly platform and a variety of football markets. Their promotion makes it easy for new customers to kickstart their betting journey.
