How to Watch HBO Max in UK [Updated Jan 2025]

Can you watch HBO Max in UK? No, you cannot watch HBO Max in UK because the streaming service is blocked outside the US as per the licensing protocols. However, you can use ExpressVPN to temporarily alter your virtual location and get around the geo-restrictions.

Hey there, fellow British entertainment enthusiasts! Are you in the UK and eager to unblock the cinematic universe of HBO Max in 2025? Well, you’re in luck! This guide is your best bet, unveiling the secrets to accessing HBO Max’s incredible lineup right from the comfort of your British abode.

In 2025, with the entertainment scene soaring to new heights, HBO Max stands as the intriguing destination for top-notch content. The only snag? It’s not officially available in the UK. But fear not, because we’ve got a reliable workaround – streaming VPNs.

This guide is here to simplify things and guide you through the process of accessing HBO Max in the UK. With a dash of VPN wizardry and digital relocation, we’ll walk you through the steps to get past the geo-restrictions.

ExpressVPN, the go-to choice for streaming VPNs, is here to lend a hand and bypass the geo-restrictions. Plus, they’re currently offering a whopping 49% off on their subscription plans. Get ready to elevate your streaming experience – let the journey commence!

Why do you need a VPN to watch HBO Max in UK?

Firstly, it’s crucial to grasp why HBO Max isn’t accessible in the UK. Despite its popularity in Hollywood circles, HBO Max faces hurdles due to licensing arrangements. HBO has struck deals with UK broadcasters and streaming platforms like Sky and NOW, granting them exclusive rights to showcase HBO content in the region.

Until these agreements evolve or come to an end, HBO Max can’t legally operate in the UK. This predicament is a common obstacle for streaming services aiming to expand globally. If you attempt to watch HBO Max in UK, you will encounter the following error:

However, fear not! We’re here to steer you through this conundrum and help you access the timeless shows and movies of HBO Max in the UK ahead of its official release. You can bypass the geo-restriction by using a premium VPN. It will replace your local IP address with an American IP address.

A premium VPN will hide your original IP address and provide you with another IP from the parent region of HBO; you will get a hassle-free and easy connection to HBO Max anywhere with the help of a VPN, especially in the UK.

How can you watch HBO Max in UK even though it’s unavailable?

Understanding how to access HBO Max in the UK starts with knowing why it’s not available to you initially. HBO Max employs a technique called geo-blocking, which restricts access to its content based on your physical location. This is done by cross-referencing your IP address with a list of restricted regions.

If your IP address indicates that you’re in the UK, you’ll be unable to stream HBO Max. But what if there was a way to trick the service into thinking you’re somewhere else? Enter virtual private networks (VPNs).

VPNs can assist in bypassing geo-blocking by masking your true location, allowing you to access HBO Max as if you were in a different country. Here’s how VPNs help in getting around the geo-restrictions:

• It spoofs your IP address to make it seem like your streaming device is in the USA instead of your actual location like the UK. So, if you want to stream HBO Max from the UK, using IP spoofing lets you swap your location and easily stream HBO Max.
• A VPN conceals your virtual location and makes it look like you’re in the same place as the VPN’s server. It secures your online activities and digital footprint.
• Using a VPN empowers you to watch more stuff on HBO Max but also opens up the possibility to access content from different regions across the globe. It means you can enjoy a wider range of content without being restricted by where you are living.

During the summers, I traveled to London for my professional work. I was looking for ways to watch The Last of Us on Max, and I came across this workaround. I used ExpressVPN and connected to its USA server to change my digital location and voila it worked. I recommend using it to access the geo-blocked content.

How to sign up for HBO Max in UK?

Can I watch HBO Max in UK? You cannot watch HBO Max in UK due to the geo-restrictions, however, you can use a VPN. Signing up for HBO Max in UK is an easy process. Follow these steps to create an HBO Max account in UK:

1. Subscribe to a premium VPN with optimized US servers. We recommend ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN application on your streaming device.
3. Sign in to the ExpressVPN app with your credentials and connect to a secure US server. We recommend the New York server.
4. Go to HBO Max’s official website and select Subscribe Now button.
5. Enter your details and choose a preferred HBO Max package.
6. Create your account and enter the requested information, such as your preferred payment method and Zip code.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
8. Congratulations, you have successfully created an account on HBO Max in UK.

3 Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max in UK [Detailed Analysis Jan 2025]

Can you access HBO Max in UK? Yes, you can access HBO Max in UK by changing your IP address and getting past the geo-restrictions. Your best bet is a VPN with next-generation servers and strong encryption. After testing 40+ VPNs, we have identified the following best HBO Max VPNs for you:

ExpressVPN – Most Recommended VPN to Watch HBO Max in UK

• Built-in speed: ExpressVPN has a feature of its internet speed test that allows you to check your web speed. Their fastest servers are operating in the United States.
• Standard of encryption: ExpressVPN uses an AES 256-bit encryption, considered the highest standard of encryption that cannot break easily.
• Kill switch feature: Furthermore, it has advanced security features, including DNS leak, Split tunneling, and kill switch features.
• Privacy policies: Moreover, there are other privacy policies present within the network, too, like WireGuard, which audits the security layers to ensure that users witness a connection with fewer issues associated with privacy concerns.

• Complete Protection: ExpressVPN provides full protection, as it doesn’t monitor the IP address you are connecting from. For instance, your login time, the IP you’re using, any traffic, or any data concerning the pages are safe.
• Subscription Plan: The cost of ExpressVPN is a bit higher than many of its competitors, but worth it. ExpressVPN’s best plan, which we recommend, is priced at $8.32 a month for an annual package that includes three months free. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee as well.
• You will also be able to access other geo-restricted Channels like Telemundo in UK, and Voot in UK.

Pros:

• Double protection
• Kill Switch Feature
• Split tunneling supports
• A large number of servers with fast speeds
• Verified and audited “No-Logs” Policy

Cons:

• A bit pricey

Recommended Servers: Seattle, Chicago, and Dallas

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NordVPN – Most Reliable VPN to Unblock HBO Max in UK

• Fast Servers: NordVPN is a suitable VPN for beginners, as It’s easy to set up. In addition, it offers a huge server network, with over 6,000+ servers across the globe. Its fast servers can easily bypass the firewalls of any geo-restricted sites.
• High tunneling protocol: Nordlynx is software NordVPN uses as a tunneling protocol that supplies ultimate fast connections, no matter where you are. It prevents the internet speed from slowing down.

• Advanced Security: NordVPN provides advanced security with AES 256-bit encryption, trusted Server technology, automatic kill switch, split tunneling, no IP address leaks, and complete privacy.
• Double Protection: NordVPN provides users with an extra layer of protection by changing their IP address twice and encrypting their web traffic. NordVPN security protocol can unblock any geo-restricted website, making it secure; you can also watch geo-restricted channels like Hulu in UK and Unblock Kayo Sport UK. with its fast accessibility.
• Subscription plan: NordVPN is cheaper than most VPNs. It costs $3.09/mo. for a 2-year subscription and get 3 extra months. The plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

• Fastest VPN
• Safe Internet connection
• Easy to use
• Uninterrupted streaming
• Access on multiple devices

Cons:

• The app is a bit slow
• Some Downtime Issues

Recommended Servers: Seattle, Denver, and Miami.

Surfshark – Most Affordable VPN to Get HBO Max in UK

• Unique security techniques: Surfshark secures your identity from hackers by deleting any hint of your private information and browsing history with each reboot.
• Global Servers: Surfshark also offers over 3,200 servers in over 65 countries, unlimited simultaneous connections at exceptionally high speeds, and many servers.

• Secure Protocols: Surfshark offers AES-256 encryption, plus the secure protocols OpenVPN UDP and TCP, IKEv2, and Wire Guard that encrypt your internet traffic completely.
• Split Tunneling: Users can split their internet connection into two using Surfshark’s split tunneling feature. If you want to access both foreign and local services simultaneously, this feature allows you to be available abroad and be updated with local news.
• Subscription plan: Surfshark offers a great 24-month subscription plan for just $2.19/mo. for a 2-year subscription with 4 months free; the plan also has a 30-day money-back guarantee., which undercuts just about every other premium VPN.
• You can unblock HBO Max in Canada with Surfshark. You can simultaneously connect unlimited devices with Surfshark.

Pros:

• Safe to use
• No data leaks
• Split tunneling supports
• Double protection

Cons:

• Dodgy Customer Service
• Requires a broader audit

Recommended Servers: New York, Chicago, and Detroit.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch HBO Max UK?

Certainly! While you technically have the alternative to employ a free VPN to access HBO Max in the UK, we strongly advise against it. Free VPNs often come with significant drawbacks and limitations.

These complimentary services are notorious for being sluggish and imposing various restrictions. Moreover, they have a reputation for monitoring users’ online activities and selling that data to advertisers. Additionally, because many individuals use these free VPNs, their servers can become overcrowded. This overcrowding can significantly impact the speed and quality of your streaming experience.

If you’re seeking a way to stream HBO Max in the UK without compromising your privacy and viewing quality, it’s preferable to explore premium VPN options with free trials or money-back guarantees. This approach ensures you can enjoy optimal streaming quality without jeopardizing your online privacy.

How much does HBO Max cost in UK?

Make sure to go through the HBO Max website to see the different subscription plans they offer and how much they cost before deciding on the one that suits you best. Here’s a summary of the plans and their prices in GBP:

How to Subscribe to HBO Max in UK?

Is HBO Max available in the UK? HBO Max is not available in the UK which means you need to use a VPN to stream HBO Max. HBO Max does not accept payments in the UK because of geo-restrictions. If you subscribe through the official website of HBO Max, you can only pay with a credit card.

However, if you don’t have a credit card, you can use different methods to Sign up for HBO Max UK. We have discussed the following methods below:

Method 1: Ask your friends/relatives with a US Debit/Credit Card

What payment options are there for HBO Max in UK? You can pay for HBO Max UK by asking your friend/relative living in the USA. The simplest method is to ask any of your friends or family to get an HBO Max subscription. Anyone in the USA can quickly get an HBO Max subscription and send it to you.

However, you will still need a VPN to access the service in the UK, so make sure you get one. We recommend you use ExpressVPN for HBO Max in the UK because it works pretty well there.

Method 2: Google Play

Follow these steps to get HBO Max with Google Pay:

1. Get a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN because it has incredible unblocking capabilities.
2. Connect to an optimized US server. We recommend the New York server.
3. Make a new Google account and set your location to the USA.
4. Purchase a US Google Play gift card.
5. You will receive the code against the gift card through your email ID.
6. Enter the code on your Google Play Store.
7. Finally, you can use the HBO Max Gift card to sign up for the streaming service.

Method 3: Apple Pay

Follow these steps to get HBO Max with Apple Pay:

1. Get a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN because it has incredible unblocking capabilities.
2. Connect to an optimized US server. We recommend the New York server.
3. Sign up for a new Apple account and set your location to the USA.
4. Do not input any payment method.
5. Get a US gift card from iTunes with your new ID.
6. Redeem the gift card when App Store is open.
7. Enter the code.
8. You can now use an iTunes gift card to pay for an HBO in UK subscription.

Can I get HBO Max in the UK?

Yes, you can get HBO Max in UK only with the help of a premium VPN. Whereas HBO Max is not presently accessible in the UK due to licensing protocols. Thus, most of the programming offered on HBO Max is also accessible on other streaming platforms available to UK viewers, including Sky and the NOW streaming app.

Moreover, we have tried most Virtual Private Networks and ended up with the result that ExpressVPN is the most reliable and trustworthy of all.

Why Is HBO Max Not in the UK?

Readers are often reaching out to us to ask why can’t I watch HBO Max in the UK? HBO Max isn’t available in the UK, but Warner Media is looking to expand the service to Latin America and Europe. The service follows in the footsteps of Disney Plus, which launched in the US in November 2019 before launching in the UK in March 2020.

Disney Plus has quickly gained nearly 100 million subscribers worldwide, despite launching at a time when most people are already committed to multiple streaming services. The pandemic helped it, but Disney Plus has slowly rolled out to most countries across the globe, and they seem to be expanding their library.

Most recently, with the addition of all the Star content that will be coming to the network on 23 February 2021 in the UK.

Is HBO Max coming to the UK?

No, there is no official news about HBO Max coming to the UK, but until then you can access HBO Max through a reputable VPN. Warner Bros. Discovery has launched MAX, a redesigned streaming service that blends HBO Max and Discovery+ content.

The latter was primarily concerned with factual material, whilst the former was primarily concerned with showing the award-winning dramas, comedy, and fiction series that had made HBO such a renowned reputation in television.

Under the MAX name, this new service serves as a more affordable choice for viewers and is accessible for download in the United States as of May 23, 2023.

What are common HBO Max Errors?

Here’s a quick run through the common HBO Max error and how to fix it:

Compatible Devices with HBO Max UK

Where can I watch Max UK? Following are the devices compatible with HBO Max in UK:

• Android (phones, tablets, laptops, and TVs)
• iOS (iPhone, iPad)
• Windows
• Mac
• Linux
• Chromebook and Chromecast
• Roku
• Smart TVs
• Amazon Firestick
• PlayStation
• Apple TV
• LGTV
• Xbox

How Can I Stream HBO Max in UK on Android Devices?

Here is how you can download HBO Max app on your Android devices:

1. Open the ExpressVPN app on your Android device.
2. Connect to a server in the United States.
3. Sign up for a new Google account and log in.
4. Search for the HBO Max app in the Play Store.
5. Install it and sign up for a free account.
6. Congratulations, HBO Max, is now available on your Android device.

How Can I Unblock HBO Max in UK on iOS Devices?

Here’s how you can watch HBO Max on iOS devices:

1. Change your Apple ID region to the United States in Settings > Network.
2. Open ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
3. Connect to a server in the United States.
4. Search for HBO Max in the Apple App Store.
5. Install the HBO Max app UK and log into your account to stream your favorite shows.

How Can I Access HBO Max in UK on Roku

Here is how you can stream HBO Max on Roku:

1. Download and install ExpressVPN and connect it to your Wi-Fi router.
2. Connect to the US server.
3. Now insert your Roku stick into your smart TV through the HDMI port.
4. Turn on your device and select HBO Max on the Roku home screen, and you are good to go.

How Can You Unblock HBO Max in UK on Apple TV

Here is how you can watch HBO Max on Apple TV:

1. Choose a trusted VPN service that allows you to use Smart DNS.
2. Go to your Apple TV’s Settings menu.
3. Select Network at the bottom of the page.
4. Choose your network by pressing the Wi-Fi button.
5. Then go to DNS Configuration and choose Manual Configuration.
6. Connect your Apple TV to a US server by typing in your DNS address and restarting it.
7. On your Apple TV, download and install the HBO Max app, and you are done.

How Can You Access HBO Max in UK on Smart TV

Here is how you can get HBO Max on Smart TV:

1. Download and install a premium VPN.
2. Connect to a US-based server.
3. Go into your Wi-Fi router’s admin.
4. Connect it to your VPN network.
5. Download the HBO Max app on your smart TV and create a free account to start watching.

How Can You Stream HBO Max in UK on PC

Here is how you can download HBO Max on PC.

1. On your computer, download and install a premium VPN.
2. Connect to a US-based server.
3. Go to the HBO Max website, sign up for an account, or log in.
4. If you’re still having trouble watching HBO Max, delete your cookies and cache before logging back in.

Is HBO Max and Discovery Plus merging?

Yes! HBO Max and Discovery are partnering as some of the Discovery content will be available on HBO Max, the official merger date is May 23, 2023, but first, the content will be available in the US only, and later it will be available in other regions like (Europe, Caribbean, and Latin America) at the end of 2024.

As per the latest news, this merger will not cost you so much, you have to pay some charges once Max arrives, you can also choose between the subscription packages mentioned below:

• Ad-Lite ($10/month or $100 for a yearly subscription)
• Ad-Free ($15/month and $150 annually), and
• Ultimate ($20/month or $200 per year).

Note: Will all Discovery Plus content be on Max? Unfortunately! only limited content of Discovery Plus will be available on Max after this merge.

Why did HBO Max change to Max?

HBO Max changed its name to Max to emphasize Warner Bros.’s commitment to expanding its audience while offering exclusive content.

HBO Max changed its name, motto, and other elements to seem more attractive and modern. so if you are thinking about the difference between HBO Max and Max It indicates the union of Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO, two different entertainment providers.

It will include important components from the two media sectors, such as TV shows, documentary films, and everyday programming.

When can I get Max streaming service in the UK?

Max is currently only offered to clients in the United States. While there have been several rumors regarding when the service will be available to viewers in the United Kingdom, with some publications speculating that we may have to wait until at least 2025, no official across-the-pond launch date has been released thus far.

FAQs – HBO Max in UK

Here are the frequently asked questions related to HBO Max in UK:

How can I get HBO Max in UK for free?

HBO Max offers a free trial for 7 days that you can surely avail, but if you want HBO Max in UK for free, first you need to get a VPN; we recommend ExpressVPN, then you can get HBO Max free for seven days to keep the HBO you can get its subscription by paying $15.99/month.

Why HBO Max is not accepting my US Zipcode?

It’s possible that HBO Max might not be accepting your US Zip code because it doesn’t match the information from your card issuer. You must ensure that all details you entered, like the security code and zip code, are correct.

Can I add HBO Max to my Amazon Prime?

Can I use a free proxy for HBO?

Yes, you can use a free proxy for HBO but it will compromise your data and digital footprint. Moreover, many free proxies are unable to get around the formidable firewalls of the streaming platform.

Is HBO Max on Sky UK?

Sky and HBO have signed a broadcasting deal that gives Sky exclusive rights to air first-run and currently streaming HBO programs in the UK and other European markets throughout 2024. Some blockbuster series are even aired live at the same as they are in the USA, which lets you avoid irritating spoilers.

Which error will you face if you try to watch HBO Max in UK?

Sadly, the streaming service is unavailable outside the USA as per the copyright restrictions. If you try to stream HBO Max in UK, you will come across the following error message: “Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region yet.”

Can I watch HBO Max in the UK?

Yes, you can watch HBO Max with the help of a premium VPN. HBO Max is a US streaming platform that is geo-restricted in UK because of content licensing. However, you can use a reputable VPN to disguise your IP address and get past the regional blockages.

Can You Watch Live Sport on HBO Max in 2025?

Yes, HBO Max subscribers can watch select live sports in 2025 through the B/R add-on till February 29^th, 2024. After the promotional offer expires on the 29^th, you can subscribe to the B/R Sports add-on for $9.99/month. It features international sporting events like MLB, NBA, and many more.

Does Sky Q have HBO Max?

No, HBO Max is not available on Sky Q. You have to buy them separately but to access it in the UK you need to get a VPN.

Can you cast HBO Max to Firestick in UK?

You can cast HBO Max to Firestick in the UK through Google and Android devices.

Is Max coming to the UK?

There is no official news about Max coming to the UK but still you can access Max in UK with the help of a VPN.

Will I Get Max if I am already subscribed to HBO Max?

All HBO Max subscribers have complete access to Max. The streaming platform transfers your profiles, billing info and watch history. Therefore, your HBO Max app will be automatically updated to Max.

Can you get HBO Max in the UK?

You cannot get HBO Max in the UK as it is a geo-blocked streaming service so to access HBO Maxc in UK you need to use a reliable VPN.

Is It legal to watch HBO Max in the UK with a VPN?

The usage of VPNs is legal in most regions but may be banned or limited in select countries. So, it is legal to watch HBO Max in the UK. Even if VPNs are legal in your area, Max can and will block your VPN if detects it because if you stream Max’s geo-blocked content outside the USA, you are violating the Terms of Use.

When will HBO Max be available in the UK?

HBO and Sky renewed their relationship for another five years in 2019. HBO Max is unlikely to launch in the UK without HBO’s main programming during this period.

Does HBO Max UK have a free trial?

HBO Max free trial is no longer available to new subscribers. If a subscription or promotional offer includes a free trial, you will see the mention of a free trial when you’re subscribing.

Wrapping Up

You can now stream HBO Max in UK with a premium VPN. It is the best method to get around geo-restrictions and stream Max. Through a VPN, you can subscribe to HBO Max and securely watch contemporary and compelling content on HBO Max from the mesmerizing country of the UK.

The streaming service offers plenty of binge-worthy on-demand and live content. Our top recommendation to stream HBO Max is ExpressVPN because it has optimized and high-functioning US servers and incredible unblocking capabilities. Moreover, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Gary Wilson

Gary is a geeky-binge watcher who loves to pen down all that he watches. The night-owl has just got two hobbies, binge-watching all the latest shows and writing everything about them.