Learn About the Best Poker Sites Not on Gamstop in 2025

If you are looking for the best poker sites not on Gamstop, the UK has a few options worth your time. Contrary to what some sources would have you believe, these sites are licensed, frequently audited, have reliable payment methods, and a wide variety of exciting poker variants.

Did you know offshore poker sites are licensed overseas by some of the most trusted regulators?

What is Gamstop and Why Should You Care?

Gamstop is a free service that promotes responsible gambling by allowing players in the UK to self-exclude from all gambling sites registered with the scheme. This self-exclusion can be temporary or permanent, but once you sign up, you can only return once the exclusion period has expired.

What Are the Reasons to Play at Non-Gamstop Poker Sites?

Gamstop, like any other program, is not perfect and may lock you out for longer than you require. In this instance, poker sites not on Gamstop can be a worthwhile alternative to help you get back to the tables. You can also opt for sites not covered by Gamstop because they offer anonymous sign-up without KYC.

What is the Legal Status of Gamstop in the UK

Gamstop is a program where players sign up of their own choice. It is a tool that helps UK poker online operators meet the requirements of the Gambling Act of 2005, which mandates responsible gambling.

How We Rate Online Poker Sites in the UK

Poker websites not on Gamstop UK have several unique features you must consider before signing up. Naturally, deciding on such an issue cannot be a random affair but a sober choice informed by a detailed rating system.

We have developed a ranking criterion considering factors such as Rakeback, bonuses, poker cash games, tournaments, payment methods, HUD support, and more. You can learn more about this system on our ‘How we rate’ page.

Poker Tournament Formats at Non-Gamstop Poker Sites

Players visiting poker sites not on Gamstop will access the same games and tournaments available elsewhere. Here are some of our favourites.

Multi Table TournamentsSatellite TournamentsSit and Go TournamentsKnockout TournamentsCash GameplayFreeroll Tournaments

Multi-table tournaments (MTTs) are some of the most popular events at non-Gamstop casino sites that offer poker because they usually draw large numbers of UK players and have massive pots. The goal in these tournaments is to win from table to table until you reach the final stage, where you compete for the pot.

Satellites allow you to play lower buy-in events where you win entry into more lucrative tourneys. You can register for super satellites at some online free poker sites, and play satellite tournaments with zero buy-in.

Sit and Gos (SNGs) are an excellent choice for new players who want to see what the game is all about without committing too much time. This is because SNGs start when enough players are at the table, and everyone can leave when they want.

Knockout tournaments (KOs) can be very rewarding for good poker players. At a KO table, you collect a bounty when you eliminate a player. In some cases, there can also be a progressive bounty that builds up as more players are eliminated.

Cash games are also an emerging option at some poker sites. Each player must deposit a buy-in, which is used to create the overall prize pool. This means cash game tournaments do not have a predetermined payout, the payout structure will depend on the number of players that register for the event. These games are usually limited to just a few tables.

No-deposit poker sites offer freeroll tournaments in which you can participate for free. This is the best way to start because you can play online poker without money, removing the stress caused by the fear of losing your funds.

How to Register and Play at a Non-Gamstop Poker Site

All the top poker sites not on Gamstop listed on this page have a detailed registration process. We’ll walk you through the sign-up at process which is similar on most sites.

  1. Step 1 - Visit the Homepage of the chosen poker room

    Head over to the homepage and locate the REGISTER button. Click the button to start the registration process.
  2. Step 2 - Complete the Simple Registration Form

    Complete the simple sign-up form that appears. Poker site will require a valid email address and a secure password.
  3. Step 3 - Verify Your Email and Download The Poker Software

    Next, download the poker room client or mobile app to your device. Install the online poker room by following the straightforward instructions provided.
  4. Step 4 - Verify and Confirm Your Email

    Open your email and use the link provided to verify your account. That’s it. You can now deposit or play free online poker in the UK.

Bonuses on Offer at Non-Gamstop Poker Sites in the UK

Take a look at the main bonuses found at sites not blocked by Gamstop. We have provided a brief description of each offer and our recommendation on who the bonus is perfect for.

Bonus Type Info Perfect for
Welcome bonus Popular UK bonus usually offered as a deposit match Poker beginners
Rakeback UK poker sites return a portion of the Rakeback as you play Regulars and serious recreational players
No deposit Online poker no deposit bonus that you get for free Experienced players looking for  pokers sites in the UK with no deposit

What Types of Poker Game Variants are Available at Non-Gamstop Sites in the UK

The poker variants at other poker rooms are the same as you can play at sites, not with Gamstop. Here are some of the best ones.

No Limit Texas Hold’emOmahaPot Limit OmahaOmaha Hi-Lo

A round of No Limit Texas Holdem begins when all players at the table receive two hole cards, face down. A betting and card dealing sequence ensues, starting with the preflop bet. Then follows the turn, and finally the river. The winner is the man or woman with the best poker hand.

Omaha is a poker game similar to Texas Holdem. The main difference is that you get four hole cards instead of two. Again, there are card dealing and betting rounds before the best hand is determined.

Everything we have said about classic Omaha applies to Pot Limit Omaha. However, as the name betrays, Pot Limit Omaha bets are determined by the pot size. You cannot wager over this amount.

Omaha Hi/Lo shares the pot between the best and worst poker hands. As with most poker variants, the best hand is determined in the showdown. Omaha Hi/Lo then determines the least ranked hand and shares the pot.

Deposit and Withdrawal Options at Poker Sites Not on Gamstop

Now that we have answered what sites are not on Gamstop let’s look at the payment methods you can use when you sign up. We’ll tell you right now that crypto is usually the pick of the bunch on all these sites since it provides quick and anonymous transaction processing. However, several other reliable options are available.

Payment Method Info Pros Cons Popular examples
Crypto This modern payment method uses cryptography and blockchain technology Quick payment processing for deposits and withdrawals

Zero fees

Crypto assets are highly volatile

 

You need a crypto wallet

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Ripple, Solana
Traditional Reliable payment options that have been broadly accepted for online payments Established payment channels

Safe transaction processing

Usually attract higher fees

Payment processing is relatively slow

Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express
eWallets Safe payment method allowing you to transact in the UK without revealing your banking details No need to divulge confidential bank information

Fast transaction processing

May not be available on some sites ecoPayz

Payz

Skrill

Neteller

Poker Resources and Training

We have exceptional resources that you can use to learn more about sites not on Gamstop in the UK, helping you get the most informed start to your playing experience.

Final Thoughts

Poker sites not on Gamstop are a perfect alternative if you want to regain control of when and where you play. These sites have responsible gaming systems that can help you expertly manage your time and budget. Schemes are also in place where you can temporarily exclude yourself from the tables for as long as you wish.

Responsible Gambling

You practice responsible gaming at sites not affected by Gamstop, just like you would at other gambling platforms. There is a real risk of gambling addiction when playing poker for real money for some players, so the importance of good gambling behaviour cannot be overstated.

We advise you to only gamble money you can comfortably lose. Also, you must have a set budget and stick to predetermined limits. If you recognise signs of problem gambling in yourself or a loved one, use the links below to find expert assistance.

References

Here are some references you can use to learn more about gambling sites not linked to Gamstop and their benefits.

FAQs

Is it safe to play on non-Gamstop online poker sites?

Are UK poker sites not registered with Gamstop legal?

Is it safe to use online poker sites in the UK?

Are poker sites not on Gamstop using rigged software?

Can I get in trouble by playing at a non-Gamstop poker website?

Are poker sites not on Gamstop no deposit bonus poker sites?

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech, gambling and blockchain industries for major developments, new product and brand launches, AI breakthroughs, game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to in-house staff writers with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Pride Kazunga
iGaming Expert

Pride is a iGaming expert writer with over 10 years of experience. He joined ReadWrite in 2024 as a casino content specialist, with a simple, relatable, and easy-to-read writing style. He loves staying up to date with the latest industry trends, providing readers with the most actionable insights. Pride is featured on multiple publications including TheGameDayCasino.com, BestOdds.com, UsOnlineCasino.com and PACasino.com.

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