7 Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK for 2026

The UK crypto landscape is growing quickly, with a mix of globally-recognized exchanges and platforms suited to both beginner and experienced traders. When choosing the best crypto exchange in the UK, it’s essential to consider security, regulatory compliance, supported assets, fees, ease of use, and GBP support.

This guide covers seven top exchanges that UK users frequently trust for trading, investing, and managing digital assets:

• Coinbase – FCA-regulated, beginner-friendly exchange with strong UK support
• OKX – Advanced trading tools, low fees, broad asset range
• MEXC – Extensive altcoin selection with early new token listings
• Bybit – Professional-grade derivatives platform with deep market liquidity
• Crypto.com – All-in-one crypto ecosystem with cards, staking, and GBP
• Uphold – Simple multi-asset platform for crypto, fiat, and metals
• Kraken – Highly secure, FCA-approved exchange for all experience levels

1. Coinbase

Coinbase is one of the most recognised crypto exchanges globally and remains a top choice for many UK users. It combines a user-friendly interface with robust security and a wide selection of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others. 

In 2025, Coinbase UK received its FCA VASP licence, allowing it to offer regulated crypto and fiat services locally — which is a major benefit for residents. Beyond basic trading, Coinbase offers savings features, yield-earning opportunities, and educational resources to help beginners onboard comfortably.

Key Features

• FCA-registered UK crypto exchange

• GBP deposits and withdrawals

• 250+ cryptocurrencies supported

• Staking and rewards up to ~14% APY

• Beginner-friendly with educational tools

2. OKX

OKX is a versatile crypto exchange known for combining strong trading functionality with competitive fees and a broad asset range. It supports over 300 cryptocurrencies and offers features like trading bots, copy trading, and staking. 

OKX’s modern platform caters to both beginners and advanced traders looking for advanced tools and automation options. While it’s not FCA-licensed, OKX has earned recognition internationally and remains a solid choice for UK users seeking more powerful trading features.

Key Features

• Large variety of supported digital assets

• Low-fee trading environment

• Copy trading & trading bot automation

• Educational resources for crypto basics

• Built-in Web3 wallet and market insights

3. MEXC

MEXC stands out for its extensive asset selection and support for new token listings, making it ideal for users interested in altcoins and emerging crypto projects. Since its launch in 2018, MEXC has built a large international user base and offers spot, futures, and leveraged trading. 

Its platform frequently lists new tokens early and supports a high number of trading pairs, appealing to traders who prioritise variety and innovation.

Key Features

• Hundreds to thousands of spot trading pairs

• Early access to new project listings

• Spot and futures markets

• Maker-taker fee model

• Global liquidity network

4. Bybit

Bybit is well known among active and professional traders for its comprehensive suite of trading tools and competitive fee structure. While Bybit ceased serving UK residents for two years, it relaunched in the region in December of 2025 to meet rising demand.  

Its platform excels in derivatives markets with deep liquidity, advanced charting, and mobile app support — though UK users should verify accessibility and regulatory considerations.

Key Features

• Powerful derivatives and perpetual contracts

• Low trading fees for high-volume traders

• Advanced charting and analytics tools

• High liquidity and leveraged trading options

• Strong mobile platform support

5. Crypto.com

Crypto.com is a popular exchange that combines easy trading, low fees, and a massive global user base. UK users can buy, sell, and trade over 400 cryptocurrencies with GBP support and fast payments like Faster Payments and Apple/Google Pay. 

Beyond trading, Crypto.com offers staking, rewards, thematic baskets, and even Web3 on-chain wallet integration for users who want more control over their assets.

Key Features

• GBP deposits with zero fees up to certain limits

• 400+ supported cryptocurrencies

• Advanced order types & trading bots

• On-chain wallet for Web3 access

• Merchant & Visa card integration

6. Uphold

Uphold is a multi-asset trading platform that lets users buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies and other assets — including fiat currencies and precious metals — in one intuitive interface. 

Known for its simplicity and transparency, Uphold is ideal for beginners or those seeking to manage a diversified portfolio beyond crypto. It offers easy one-step trading across assets and flexible payment methods, though its advanced charting features are more limited compared with larger exchanges.

Key Features

• One-step trading across multiple asset classes

• Supports crypto, fiat, and commodities

• Transparent proof-of-reserves reporting

• Easy debit/credit card and bank transfers

• Simple interface for beginners

7. Kraken

Kraken is a well-established and highly trusted global cryptocurrency exchange that has built a solid reputation with UK investors thanks to its strong security, extensive asset range, and deep liquidity. Kraken also secured approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to operate electronic money services, enhancing its GBP deposit and withdrawal capabilities for British users. 

Additionally, the platform offers advanced features like staking and an OTC desk for institutional traders — making it a versatile choice for a wide range of crypto users.

Key Features

• GBP support with FCA-approved e-money services

• Hundreds of cryptocurrencies available

• On-chain staking rewards

• Advanced trading through Kraken Pro

• Institutional tools & OTC desk

Conclusion

Choosing the best crypto exchange in the UK ultimately depends on your goals — whether you’re seeking simplicity, advanced trading tools, regulatory assurance, or asset diversity. Platforms like Kraken and Coinbase excel in regulated services and user trust, while OKX and MEXC offer strong tools and asset range for more seasoned traders. Meanwhile, Uphold brings a simple multi-asset experience for beginners or diversified portfolios.

Before signing up, always verify the exchange’s UK availability, fees, supported payment methods, and compliance with local regulations.