Brean Horne
Denise Ko Genovese
Bitcoin is one of the most widely recognised digital currencies globally and an increasing number of companies are starting to accept it as a form of payment. Here, we give an overview of some companies that accept bitcoin in the UK.
Who accepts Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies?
Businesses around the world accept Bitcoin and other popular cryptocurrencies. Both major companies and (small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are embracing digital currency payments as they become more widely used and to set themselves apart.
» MORE: How does Bitcoin work?
UK companies that accept Bitcoin as payment
Many companies across the UK are now offering bitcoin as a payment option. From clothing and accessories to travel and accommodation, the table below shows some of the UK companies that accept Bitcoin payments.
| Name | Sector |
|---|---|
| 5wire.co.uk | Technology |
| Academy for Distance Learning | Education |
| Art Galleries Direct | Art Galleries |
| Bimble Solar | Electronics |
| BitFolk | Technology |
| C W Sellors | Clothing & Accessories |
| CheapAir | Travel & Accommodation |
| Earth VPN | Technology |
| Express VPN | Technology |
| Girl Meets Dress | Clothing & Accessories |
| Hosting.co.uk | Technology |
| It's A Mod Thing | Clothing & Accessories |
| Jura Watches | Clothing & Accessories |
| Manchester VPS | Technology |
| Maths Gear | Toys, Games, & Hobbies |
| Mullvad | Technology |
| My Pashmina | Clothing & Accessories |
| Nitrous Networks | Technology |
| Nord VPN | Technology |
| Prestige Kent Cars | Travel & Accommodation |
| Private Internet Access | Technology |
| PrivateFly | Travel & Accommodation |
| The Real Rug Company | Home & Garden |
| The Seedbox Company | Technology |
| W Hamond | Clothing & Accessories |
Correct as of 26 May 2022
Companies that accept Bitcoin to buy gift cards in the UK
Some of the larger UK retailers accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies indirectly. For example, It’s possible to purchase gift cards through cryptocurrency platforms such as BitPay and CoinGate, which can be used to shop in store and online at many UK stores, some of which include:
- All Bar One
- Argos
- ASDA
- ASOS
- Boohoo
- Clarks
- Costa Coffee
- Currys PC World
- Ernest Jones
- H.Samuel
- Habitat
- Harvester
- Iceland
- Just Eat
- John Lewis & Partners
- Marks & Spencer
- National Express
- New Look
- Pizza Express
- Primark
- Sainsburys
- Tesco
- Wagamama
Nine essential Bitcoin and cryptocurrency statistics in the UK
According to cryptocurrency research from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in 2021:
- 4.4% of UK adults (around 2.3 million consumers) hold cryptocurrency.
- 66% of cryptocurrency users held Bitcoin in 2021, a 3% increase from 2020.
- 35% of cryptocurrency users hold Ethereum.
- 21% of cryptocurrency users hold Litecoin.
- 18% of cryptocurrency users hold XRP/Ripple.
- 15% of cryptocurrency users hold Bitcoin Cash.
- The median cryptocurrency holding was £300 in 2021, up from £260 in the previous year.
- 78% of UK adults had heard of cryptocurrency in 2021, up from 73% in 2020.
- Bitcoin is the most widely recognised cryptocurrency in the UK, with 82% of people having heard of it in 2021.
Source: FCA, 2021
Companies in the UK that accept Bitcoin FAQs
Does Amazon accept Bitcoin in the UK?
Amazon doesn’t accept Bitcoin payments directly. But it’s possible to purchase Amazon gift cards through Bitcoin payment platforms, which can be used for purchases on the Amazon UK website.
Does Microsoft accept Bitcoin in the UK?
Microsoft doesn’t accept Bitcoin payments directly in the UK. However, you can purchase Xbox gift cards through Bitcoin platforms which can be used to make purchases at the Microsoft Store online, Windows and on Xbox.
Does Starbucks accept Bitcoin in the UK?
Currently, Starbucks doesn’t directly accept Bitcoin payments in the UK. However, you can pay with Bitcoin by loading up the Starbucks app via a third-party app. You can also purchase a Starbucks gift card through a Bitcoin payment platform, which can be used in store.
Does Expedia still accept Bitcoin in the UK?
Expedia stopped taking Bitcoin payments in 2018 and now only accepts Visa, Mastercard or American Express credit or debit card payments. They also allow payments via PayPal or Discover Card. Instead, travellers can use one of Expedia’s partners, Travala.com, to book holidays using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.
Does eBay Accept Bitcoin in the UK?
EBay does not currently accept Bitcoin payments. Buyers can use debit cards, credit cards, ApplePay, GooglePay, PayPal and PayPal Credit to make purchases.
Does Apple accept Bitcoin in the UK?
Bitcoin payments are not accepted directly by Apple in the UK. However, BitPay users can add a cryptocurrency debit card to Apple Pay which can be used for in-store and online purchases.
Does Tesla accept Bitcoin payments in the UK?
Tesla doesn’t currently accept Bitcoin payments. The only cryptocurrency that Tesla accepts is Dogecoin. Any eligible products for Dogecoin payments will be clearly marked on Tesla’s website.
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