The 7 best crypto exchanges for the UK in 2026

UK’s crypto market is rapidly expanding, and there are a variety of platforms and exchanges that cater to novice and advanced traders. It’s important to take into account security, regulatory compliance and supported assets. Also, you should consider fees, ease-of-use, GBP support, as well as the exchange’s ability to handle GBP.

The guide below covers the top seven exchanges UK users trust most for investing in, trading and managing digital assets.

• The FCA-regulated exchange that is beginner friendly with strong UK support
• OKX: Advanced Trading Tools, Low Fees, Broad Assets
• MEXC: Extensive selection of altcoins with new token listings early
• Bybit: Professional derivatives platform that offers deep liquidity
• Crypto.com: All-in one crypto ecosystem, with GBP, cards and staking.
• Easy multi-asset platform that supports crypto, metals, and fiat currencies
• All levels of experience can enjoy Kraken, a highly secure and FCA approved exchange.

1. Coinbase

Coinbase remains one of the top crypto exchanges in the UK and is widely recognised as a leading global platform. The platform combines an intuitive interface, robust security, and a large selection of assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum and others.

Coinbase UK will receive its FCA VASP license in 2025. This allows it to provide regulated fiat and crypto services on a local level, which is of great benefit to residents. Coinbase also offers educational materials, savings options, and yield-earning possibilities to make it easier for beginners to get started.

The Key Features

• FCA registered UK cryptocurrency exchange

• GBP withdrawals and deposits

• 250+ cryptocurrencies supported

• Earn up to 14% on stakes

• Educational tools for beginners

2. OKX

OKX, a crypto exchange with a wide range of assets and competitive trading fees, is known as a flexible platform. The exchange supports more than 300 crypto currencies and has features such as trading bots and copy trading.

The modern platform of OKX is designed for both novice and experienced traders who are looking for automation and advanced tools. OKX, while not FCA licensed, has gained international recognition and is a good choice for UK traders who want more advanced trading tools.

The Key Features

• Supported digital assets are available in a wide variety

• Trading environment with low fees

• Automated trading and copy trading

• Crypto basics: Educational Resources

• Web3 wallet with market insight and built-in.

3. MEXC

MEXC is a great choice for those interested in emerging cryptocurrencies and altcoins. It has a wide selection of assets and supports new token listings. MEXC, which was launched in 2018, has a huge international clientele and provides spot, futures and leveraged trading.

The platform is known for its early listing of new tokens and support for a large number trading pairs. This appeals to traders that value variety and innovation.

The Key Features

• Spot trading in hundreds to thousands

• New project listing early access

• Futures and Spot Markets

• Model of Maker-Taker Fee

• Global Liquidity Network

4. Byte

Bybit’s comprehensive trading tool suite and its competitive pricing are well-known among professional and active traders. Bybit stopped serving UK residents in 2012, but re-launched the service in 2025 in order to keep up with demand.

The platform is a leader in the derivatives market with its deep liquidity, advanced charts, and support for mobile apps. However, UK users are advised to verify access and regulatory concerns.

The Key Features

• Perpetual contracts and derivatives are powerful tools

• Trading fees are low for volume traders

• Charting and Analytics Tools

• Trading options with high liquidity and leverage

• Support for mobile platforms

5. Crypto.com

Crypto.com, a well-known exchange, offers low trading fees and an enormous global user base. Users in the UK can trade, buy and sell over 400 crypto currencies with support for GBP and quick payments such as Apple/Google pay and Faster Payments.

Crypto.com also offers users more options than just trading. Users who prefer to have greater control of their assets can choose from staking and rewards as well as thematic baskets.

The Key Features

• Deposits in GBP with no fees, up to certain limits

• 400+ supported cryptocurrencies

• Trading bots & advanced order types

• Web3 wallet on a chain

• Visa & Merchant Card Integration

6. Hold Up

The Uphold platform is an asset trading platform which allows users to buy, trade and swap assets including fiat currency and precious metals.

Uphold, a cryptocurrency exchange known for its transparency and simplicity is a great choice for those who are new to crypto or want to diversify their portfolio. Uphold offers one-step trades across multiple assets, flexible payment options and easy trading. However, its charting capabilities are limited when compared to larger exchanges.

The Key Features

• Trading in multiple asset classes with one-step transactions

• Supports fiat and crypto currencies

• Transparent proof-of-reserves reporting

• Transfers using debit/credit cards and banks are easy.

• Easy interface for beginners

7. Kraken

Kraken, a global exchange of cryptocurrencies, is well-known and trusted by UK investors. This reputation has been built on its high level of security, wide range and liquidity. Kraken has also been approved by the UK Financial Conduct Authority to offer electronic money services. This will enhance its GBP withdrawal and deposit capabilities for British customers.

The platform also offers advanced features such as staking, and an OTC Desk for institutional traders. This makes it a flexible choice for many crypto users.

The Key Features

• GBP Support with FCA approved e-money Services

• There are hundreds of different cryptocurrencies.

• Rewards for stakes on the chain

• Kraken Pro: Advanced Trading

• Institutional tools & OTC desk

The conclusion of the article is:

The best UK crypto exchange depends on what you want — be it simplicity, advanced tools for trading, regulatory assurance or diversity of assets. Kraken, Coinbase and OKX are platforms that excel at regulated services with high user trust. MEXC and OKX offer a wide range of tools for seasoned traders. Uphold offers a multi-asset trading experience that is simple for both beginners and portfolio diversification.

Verify that the UK exchange is available, its fees and supported payment methods are compliant with local laws, before signing up.