UK betting shops do not accept credit cards as a form of payment. This is because the use of credit cards for gambling is regulated in the UK and is subject to strict rules and guidelines. The use of credit cards for gambling both in betting shops and online was banned in April 2020.
Under the Gambling Commission’s rules, operators are not allowed to accept credit cards for any form of gambling, including in-person betting at betting shops. The aim of this rule is to help prevent problem gambling and protect vulnerable customers from getting into debt.
However, most betting shops do accept other forms of payment, including debit cards, cash, and in some cases, electronic payments such as PayPal or Apple Pay. Some bookmakers may also offer their own branded payment cards, which can be used to make deposits and withdrawals in-store.