Where to Buy Altcoins In The UK: 2025 Beginners Guide
Adam Woodhead
Co-Founder
Adam is a passionate investor who created The Investors Centre (TIC) to combine his professional skills with his love for investment. His goal is to offer a platform filled with valuable resources, practical advice, and effective strategies for anyone looking to make their mark in the investment world.
“Investment is about more than just numbers; it’s about strategy, research, and the willingness to adapt. At TIC, we’re here to provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed on your investment journey.”
Thomas Drury
Co-Founder
Thomas is an experienced financial trader in leverage instruments, crypto and general investing. He has over a decade experience in finance and holds Chartered Status in the financial industry, Thomas’s speciality is trading CFDs, Forex and Day Trading. His crypto portfolio is heavily weighted towards BTC and Eth, but enjoys trading low cap crypto’s with higher volatility. Thomas’s favourite trading strategy is break out Trading.
“Our commitment at The Investors Centre is unwavering. We strive to provide clear, actionable advice that empowers you to achieve financial success. Our vision is a future where anyone can invest confidently and wisely.”
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
How We Test
Trading Altcoins lets you gain exposure to digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum without relying on traditional finance. Explore our ranked list of trusted, crypto exchanges—tested with real funds and available to UK users.
Quick Answer: Where Can You Buy Altcoins in the UK?
You can buy altcoins in the UK through regulated cryptocurrency exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, eToro, and Uphold. These platforms accept GBP deposits, offer a wide range of altcoins, and comply with FCA regulations, ensuring safe, legal, and beginner-friendly trading for UK residents.
Platform of the Month – eToro
eToro is a leading UK crypto exchange, offering real crypto ownership, stocks, and ETFs on one intuitive platform. Its strong regulation, social trading, and CopyTrader™ feature make it ideal for beginners and casual investors exploring Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more.
- Minimum Deposit: $50 (via UK bank transfer)
- Trade and hold real crypto assets (not just CFDs)
- FCA regulated and compliant with UK crypto marketing rules
- User-friendly platform with social trading and mobile app support
- Ideal for beginners and casual investors entering the crypto space
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Here are the Top 4 Best Best Crypto Exchanges for Altcoins in the UK:
- Coinbase: FCA-registered, beginner-friendly, 250+ altcoins, GBP support, and lower fees via Coinbase Advanced.
- Kraken: Secure, low fees, 200+ altcoins, with advanced features on Kraken Pro.
- eToro UK: Easy to use, FCA-compliant, 80+ altcoins, supports GBP, card, and PayPal.
- Uphold: Simple interface, 250+ altcoins, GBP support, and multi-asset access.
Coinbase – Beginner-Friendly, Secure, Trusted Brand, GBP Support
Pros & Cons
- User-friendly design
- FCA-compliant
- Beginner-focused
- Coinbase Advanced for Lower Fees and more features
- Supports GBP.
- Higher fees,
- Slower support at times.
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Available Altcoins
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What Are the Fees and Charges?
Coinbase offers around 250+ altcoins, including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), and Polkadot (DOT). It frequently adds new tokens with higher market demand and strong fundamentals.
Coinbase charges 1.49% for standard buys, with higher fees for debit card payments (up to 3.99%). Advanced Trade offers lower rates starting at 0.6% maker / 0.4% taker. GBP withdrawals to UK bank accounts are typically free or low cost.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Kraken – Low Fees, Advanced Trading, Strong Security
The content of this and linked communications referencing Kraken has been prepared by Payward Ltd
Pros & Cons
- Advanced trading features on Kraken Pro vs standard
- Strong security record
- Low fees
- Wide altcoin support.
- Interface may be complex for beginners
- Limited educational tools.
-
Available Altcoins
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What Are the Fees and Charges?
Kraken supports over 200 altcoins, including ETH, SOL, DOT, AVAX, ATOM, MATIC, and many more. It’s ideal for users seeking both major and mid-cap altcoins with deep liquidity.
Kraken’s maker-taker fees start at 0.16% / 0.26% and reduce with higher volume. GBP deposits via FPS are free, while card deposits aren’t supported. Withdrawals to UK banks incur minimal fees depending on the method.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
eToro – Social Trading, Simple Interface, FCA Regulated
Pros & Cons
- FCA-regulated
- Beginner-friendly UI
- Social trading features
- GBP support.
- Limited altcoin list compared to others
- Higher spreads
- No access to token wallets for some assets.
-
Available Altcoins
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What Are the Fees and Charges?
eToro supports about 80+ altcoins, including ETH, ADA, DOGE, MATIC, UNI, and SHIB. While more limited than Binance or Kraken, it covers most top 50 market cap assets.
eToro charges spreads from 1% to 2.9%, depending on the asset. There’s no direct trading fee, but withdrawal and inactivity fees apply. GBP deposits are free via bank transfer, while card or PayPal may incur small conversion charges.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Uphold – Multi-Asset Access, User-Friendly, GBP Support
Pros & Cons
- Multi-asset trading (crypto, stocks, metals)
- Easy account setup
- FCA-registered
- Transparent reserve reporting
- Higher spreads
- Less transparent fee structure
- Limited trading features.
-
Available Altcoins
-
What Are the Fees and Charges?
Uphold lists over 250 cryptocurrencies, including many emerging altcoins and layer-1 tokens. It supports XRP, XLM, Hedera (HBAR), and smaller cap tokens not found on all major platforms.
Uphold uses spreads instead of trading fees, typically 0.9%–1.5% for major coins, higher for low-liquidity tokens. Deposits via bank transfer or card in GBP are supported, with low or no extra charges.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Honourable Mentions
OKX, Moonpay, MEXC that didnt quite crack the top 4.
What Are Altcoins and Why Are They Popular in the UK?
What is an Altcoin?
An altcoin is any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin. Examples include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and Dogecoin (DOGE). Altcoins often serve specific purposes like smart contracts, decentralized apps, or faster transactions, and offer investors diverse opportunities in the growing crypto ecosystem.
What Are the Pros of Altcoins?
Altcoins offer diversification, access to innovative blockchain projects, and potential for higher returns compared to Bitcoin. Many are cheaper per coin, attract speculative interest, and serve real-world use cases in DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 — making them appealing to both new and experienced UK investors.
What Are the Downsides of Altcoins?
Altcoins are typically more volatile, less regulated, and can be subject to low liquidity or project failure. Many lack clear utility or long-term adoption, increasing risk. Some altcoins may also be prone to scams, pump-and-dump schemes, or suffer from poor developer support and transparency.
What If I Want a Specific Coin?
If you’re looking for a specific altcoin, use tools like CoinGecko or CoinMarketCap to check which exchanges list it. These platforms let you search by token and view where it’s available, including Coinbase, Kraken, eToro UK, or Uphold, with real-time price and volume data.
Where Can You Legally Buy Altcoins in the UK?
Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in the UK?
Yes, crypto exchanges are legal in the UK if they are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA oversees anti-money laundering compliance, ensuring user protection. UK users should only trade on platforms with FCA approval or registration for legal and secure access.
Which Exchanges Are FCA-Registered?
As of 2025, FCA-registered exchanges include eToro UK, Uphold, Kraken, and Coinbase. These platforms meet UK regulatory standards, offer identity verification, and support GBP deposits. Using FCA-registered exchanges ensures safer trading, legal compliance, and reduced risk of fraud for UK crypto buyers.
Altcoin Exchange Comparison Table (UK)
| Exchange | FCA Registered | Altcoins Available | GBP Deposit Support | Typical Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | ✅ Yes | ~250+ | ✅ Bank, Card, PayPal | 1.49–3.99% | Beginners, mobile trading |
| Coinbase Advanced | ✅ Yes | ~250+ | ✅ Bank, Card, PayPal | 0.4%–0.6% | Lower fees, better control |
| Kraken | ✅ Yes | 200+ | ✅ Bank transfer | ~0.9% (basic buy) | Simple UI, regulated exchange |
| Kraken Pro | ✅ Yes | 200+ | ✅ Bank transfer | 0.16–0.26% | Active traders, deep liquidity |
| eToro UK | ✅ Yes | ~80 | ✅ Bank, Card, PayPal | 1–2.9% (spread) | Social trading, ease of use |
| Uphold | ✅ Yes | 250+ | ✅ Bank, Card | 0.9–1.5%+ (spread) | Multi-asset investing, accessibility |
What Are the Fees for Buying Altcoins in the UK?
Altcoin trading costs in the UK vary by platform and payment method. Below is a comprehensive comparison of Coinbase, Coinbase Advanced, Kraken, Kraken Pro, eToro UK, and Uphold, helping you choose based on cost and trading style.
| Feature | Coinbase (Simple) | Coinbase Advanced | Kraken (Basic) | Kraken Pro | eToro UK | Uphold |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trading Fees | ~1.49% standard buy | 0.6% maker / 0.4% taker | ~0.9% (Instant Buy) | 0.16% maker / 0.26% taker | 1%–2.9% spread only | 0.9%–1.5%+ spread only |
| Fee Transparency | High fees, simple UX | Advanced UI, transparent pricing | Higher basic interface fees | Advanced UI, clear order book | Spreads not always visible | Spreads fluctuate; not transparent |
| GBP Bank Transfer (FPS) | ✅ Free deposit / free withdrawal | ✅ Same as Coinbase Simple | ✅ Free deposit / £1.95 withdrawal | ✅ Same | ✅ Free deposit / $5 withdrawal | ✅ Free deposit / ~£1.99 withdrawal |
| Debit Card Deposit (GBP) | ⚠️ Up to 3.99% | ❌ Not supported | ❌ Not supported | ❌ Not supported | ✅ 0–2% depending on card type | ✅ Up to 1.5% |
| PayPal Support (UK) | ✅ Buy/sell/withdraw | ✅ Available via linked account | ❌ Not supported | ❌ Not supported | ✅ Deposit & withdraw | ❌ Not available |
| Minimum Trade Size | ~£2 | ~£2 | ~£1 | ~£1 | ~£8–£10 | ~£1 |
| Altcoin Availability | 250+ major & trending coins | 250+ (same as standard) | 200+ altcoins | 200+ altcoins | 80+ top market cap coins | 250+ incl. lesser-known coins |
| Wallet Support | ✅ Internal wallet & self-custody | ✅ Full transfer options | ✅ Internal + external transfers | ✅ Full support | ❌ Limited withdrawal options | ✅ Wallet & external transfer |
| Ideal For | Beginners, ease-of-use | Cost-conscious intermediate users | Beginners, fast buys | Active traders, lower fees | Social trading & ease of use | Cross-asset investing |
Are There Conversion Fees?
Yes, most platforms apply small GBP-to-crypto conversion fees. Coinbase and eToro include this in their spreads or trading charges. Kraken offers direct GBP pairs with low conversion costs. Uphold also supports GBP but charges spreads that can vary with volatility and liquidity.
How to Buy Altcoins in the UK (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Choose a Regulated Exchange
Select an FCA-registered platform like Coinbase, Kraken, or eToro for legal protection and GBP support. - Create and Verify Your Account
Sign up with your email and complete identity verification (KYC), typically using a passport or driver’s license. - Deposit GBP
Fund your account via bank transfer, debit card, or PayPal (depending on the platform). - Search for an Altcoin
Use the search bar to find your chosen altcoin like ETH, ADA, or SOL. - Place Your Order
Choose a buy amount and execute a market or limit order depending on your preference. - Secure Your Investment
Transfer altcoins to a personal crypto wallet (like Ledger or MetaMask) for long-term safety and control.
Is It Safe to Buy Altcoins in the UK?
Buying altcoins in the UK is safe when using FCA-registered platforms like eToro UK, Coinbase, Kraken, and Uphold. These exchanges comply with UK anti-money laundering laws, offer 2FA, cold storage, and robust security frameworks to protect customer funds and personal data.
How to Protect Your Crypto
For added security, move your altcoins from exchange wallets to personal wallets like Ledger or MetaMask. Always enable two-factor authentication, avoid public Wi-Fi during trades, and never share your private keys. Stick to regulated platforms and monitor for phishing or fake login pages.
What Is KYC and Why Is It Required?
All legal exchanges in the UK require KYC (Know Your Customer) checks. This process verifies your identity with a passport, driving license, and proof of address. It’s mandatory under FCA regulations to prevent fraud, money laundering, and ensure safe trading environments.
Can You Buy Anonymously?
No — on regulated UK platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, Uphold, and eToro UK, anonymous altcoin purchases are not allowed. You must complete ID verification to access full account functionality. Anonymous buying is only possible via risky, unregulated sources not recommended for UK users.
Which Altcoins Are Most Popular in the UK Right Now?
Top 5 Trending Altcoins in 2025
- Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is the most widely held altcoin in the UK. It powers smart contracts, DeFi platforms, and NFTs, making it both functional and investable.
- Solana (SOL): Solana is known for fast, low-cost transactions. It’s popular among UK users for gaming, DeFi, and high-performance decentralized apps.
- XRP: Favoured for cross-border payments, XRP has strong UK interest due to its speed, banking partnerships, and recent legal clarity.
- Cardano (ADA): Cardano’s research-based approach to blockchain attracts UK investors focused on sustainable, long-term growth in decentralized networks.
- Dogecoin (DOGE): DOGE remains popular in the UK due to its meme status, social media hype, and low cost — though it’s more speculative than functional.
Conclusion
Choosing the right altcoin platform in the UK depends on your experience, trading goals, and preferred features. Whether you’re after low fees, a simple user interface, or access to a wide range of coins, FCA-registered platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, eToro UK, and Uphold offer secure and legal ways to invest in altcoins with GBP.
Which Is the Best Altcoin Platform for Beginners?
Coinbase is the best altcoin platform for beginners in the UK. It offers a clean, intuitive interface, full GBP support, strong regulatory compliance, and access to 250+ altcoins. With educational tools and a mobile-friendly app, it’s ideal for first-time crypto investors.
FAQs
Which Is the Best Platform for Altcoins?
Coinbase Advanced and Kraken Pro offer the best balance of altcoin variety, FCA compliance, and low fees. Coinbase is ideal for beginners, while Kraken Pro suits experienced traders. Both platforms support GBP and provide secure, regulated access to over 200+ altcoins.
Can I Buy Crypto With a Credit Card in the UK?
Yes, platforms like Coinbase, eToro UK, and Uphold support credit or debit card purchases in GBP. Be aware of potential fees, which can range from 1% to 3.99%, depending on the platform and card provider.
Can I Store Altcoins on These Platforms?
Yes, all four platforms—Coinbase, Kraken, eToro, and Uphold—offer internal wallets to store altcoins. For enhanced security, consider transferring to a personal crypto wallet such as Ledger, Trezor, or MetaMask.
Are Altcoins Legal to Buy in the UK?
Yes, altcoins are legal to buy, sell, and hold in the UK, provided you use FCA-registered exchanges. Platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, eToro UK, and Uphold comply with UK financial regulations for safe and legal altcoin trading.
References
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Cryptoasset Firms Register
https://register.fca.org.uk/s/firm?id=0010X00004GQGuwQAHCoinbase UK Help Centre
https://help.coinbase.com/enKraken UK – Fees & Trading Info
https://www.kraken.com/en-gb/feeseToro UK – Crypto FAQs & Legal Disclosures
https://www.etoro.com/en-gb/crypto/Uphold – Cryptocurrency List and Fee Schedule
https://uphold.com/en/assets/cryptoHMRC – Cryptoassets Manual (Tax Guidance)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tax-on-cryptoassets
