Stepping into a UK bookmaker, or browsing online can feel overwhelming because of the variety of events you can bet on.
This guide explores the different types of bets and markets available in the UK. It explains how bets work, the terminology used, and the range of events offered by some licensed bookmakers.
You will learn about sports, non-sport markets, in-play betting, and the rules that govern each type. Understanding these basics may make it easier to interpret odds, follow markets, and recognise how outcomes are determined.
What Can You Actually Bet on at the Bookies?
Many UK bookmakers offer a wide range of markets across sports and non-sport events. Football, horse racing, tennis, cricket, and greyhound racing are among the most common.
Football markets often cover domestic leagues such as the Premier League and Championship, as well as international tournaments like the World Cup and European Championships. Horse racing markets cover races in the UK and Ireland, including major events such as the Cheltenham Festival or Royal Ascot.
Some bookmakers may also offer markets on entertainment, politics, or unusual occurrences, including reality shows or weather events. The availability and rules for each market differ between operators, and markets are priced based on available information and statistical probability.
Popular Sports Betting Markets in the UK
Sports markets allow bettors to try and predict specific outcomes in a structured way, with rules defined by the bookmaker:
- Match Result: Bettors attempt to predict the winner of a match or race. In tennis, this could mean selecting the player who you think will win the set or the match. In greyhound racing, it involves picking the dog that you think will finish first. Potential payouts are determined by the odds set by the bookmaker.
- Correct Score or Finish Position: Trying to predict the exact result, such as the set score in tennis or the finishing position of a horse in a race. These bets generally carry higher odds because the probability of an exact outcome is lower.
- First Scorer or First Place: In tennis, this could be the first player to win a game or set. In horse or greyhound racing, it relates to which competitor finishes first. Special rules may apply for any walkovers, disqualifications, or substitutions.
- Over/Under: Bettors try to predict whether a statistic will be above or below a set figure, such as the total number of games in a tennis match or goals in a football game.
- Each Way (Horse or Greyhound Racing): The stake is split between a win bet and a place bet, where the place may pay if the competitor finishes in the top positions. Terms vary depending on the number of participants and the bookmaker’s conditions.
Bookmakers define the settlement rules for each market, including how outcomes are confirmed and any exceptions. Reviewing these rules before placing a bet ensures a clearer understanding of how the bet may be settled.
Can You Bet on Anything at the Bookies?
Bookmakers cannot offer every type of event. Licensed operators follow regulations that require markets to be verifiable, with results that can be confirmed through trusted sources. Events must be suitable for betting, with sufficient information to set odds accurately.
While many non-sport markets exist, availability depends on the bookmaker and the integrity of the event. Operators may exclude events where results are ambiguous or difficult to verify.
Specials and Novelty Bets: Beyond Sports
Specials and novelty bets focus on non-sporting outcomes. These can include:
- Entertainment awards
- Reality television results
- Election outcomes
- Weather events or records
- Royal announcements
For these markets, the settlement rules are crucial. Bookmakers typically define which official sources or announcements determine the outcome. Availability varies by operator, and not all bookmakers provide these markets.
In-Play and Live Betting Options
In-play or live betting allows you to place bets while a sporting event is ongoing. Odds are updated continuously based on the current state of play, including scores, time remaining, and other statistics.
Common in-play bets include next team to score, final result, and number of corners or goals. Markets may be temporarily suspended after significant events, such as goals or red cards, and reopened once verified. Some operators may offer early settlement through cash-out features, allowing bets to be closed at a price offered at that moment.
Bookmakers can differ in which in-play markets they provide, how quickly odds are updated, the conditions for suspending markets, and the availability of cash-out options. Reviewing the specific markets and terms and conditions of each bookmaker before placing a bet can help provide clarity on how in-play bets may be accepted and settled.
What to Know Before Placing Your Bet
Sports betting involves chance, and winnings are not guaranteed. Consider the following points:
- Set a spending limit that fits within your budget.
- Understand how each market is settled and any specific conditions.
- Check odds and potential returns, recognising that they can change.
- Only stake amounts you are prepared to lose.
- Choose licensed UK bookmakers to ensure adherence to fairness and verification standards.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.