How to Watch PBS in UK [Updated November 2023]

To watch PBS in UK, you will need a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN. By connecting to a VPN’s US server, you can easily access and watch your favorite PBS shows while in the UK. Whether you’re a fan of PBS’s educational content, its gripping documentaries, or its classic American series, our guide is designed to help you navigate the process of accessing PBS with ease.

PBS, the esteemed American broadcaster, offers a treasure trove of educational and entertaining content, ranging from documentaries to classic series. Some of the latest PBS shows include Masters of American Music, Guilt, and World on Fire, while standout PBS movies feature titles like Mayor, The Child in Time, and Elizabeth Is Missing.

However, accessing this rich library from the UK can be challenging due to geographical restrictions. Our focus will be on providing you with practical solutions, including the use of VPNs, to overcome these geographical barriers.

Stay tuned as we delve into the details of how to get PBS in the UK with a VPN connection from the comfort of your UK home:

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch PBS in UK?

Discover the crucial role of a VPN in unlocking the world of PBS in the UK. Due to geo-restrictions, PBS content is not directly accessible outside the US.

A VPN like ExpressVPN helps you bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as if you are browsing from the US.

This not only grants you access to PBS but also ensures your online privacy and security. Learn about the technical aspects of how VPNs work and why they are indispensable for seamless streaming of PBS content in the UK.

Even if you try to access PBS America UK streaming without a VPN, you will stuck with the following window saying:

“Loading Player…”

PBS is geo-restricted in UK

Likewise, if you wish to stream other platforms such as Sony Crackle or Foxtel in the UK, connecting to a VPN server in the region where the streaming service is accessible will grant you immediate access to your preferred services.

Another good news is that UK viewers can get the PBS channel UK through Virgin Media 187, Freeview 84, Samsung TV Plus, Freesat 155, Sky 174, and on-demand with Freeview Play Amazon UK and Amazon Fire TV app.

What are the Best VPNs to Watch PBS in UK in 2023?

In 2023, choosing the right VPN for streaming PBS in the UK is crucial. We’ve researched over 30 VPNs and compiled a list of the top VPNs that stand out for their speed, reliability, and ability to consistently unblock PBS.

Discover detailed insights on each VPN, including ExpressVPN for its exceptional speed, Surfshark for its budget-friendly plans, and NordVPN for its extensive server network.

Understand the unique features of each VPN and how they enhance your PBS streaming experience in the UK. Read on to discover what each VPN provides:

1. ExpressVPN: The Best VPN to Watch PBS in UK

ExpressVPN is overall the best VPN for PBS in UK. Renowned for its exceptional speed and reliability, ExpressVPN ensures a seamless streaming experience, making it the recommended VPN for accessing PBS content.

It has over 3000+ servers in over 105 countries and 25 optimised ones in the US. The servers in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami are particularly recommended for their consistent performance and ability to bypass geo-restrictions effectively.

We watched PBS in UK with ExpressVPN

Not only does ExpressVPN provide access to PBS, but its high-speed servers also enable smooth streaming. Users can enjoy uninterrupted viewing with minimal buffering, enhancing their overall streaming experience.

Upon testing ExpressVPN’s servers, we received an impressive speed of 89.42 Mbps of downloading speed and 84.64 Mbps of upload speed. It’s enough for an uninterrupted streaming on PBS in UK.

ExpressVPN speed test results in UK

Next, viewers can also access 9Now, ABC in the UK, and DirecTV in the UK, which are also geo-restricted in the region. These platforms host a variety of shows and movies that you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Just like with ABC, using ExpressVPN’s USA server can grant you access to these platforms in no time.

Split Tunneling, Kill Switch, AES-256 Encryption, Unlimited Bandwidth and 24/7 Live Customer Support are just a few of ExpressVPN’s many impressive features. These features ensure your online activities remain private and secure, adding an extra layer of protection while you stream.

Beyond these options, it extends compatibility to multiple devices and operating systems, including laptops, Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS, offering flexibility for all your viewing needs.

Furthermore, its Mediastreamer feature grants access to devices that natively do not support VPNs like Xbox devices, Smart TVs, and PlayStations ensuring a comprehensive streaming experience.

ExpressVPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously using only one account. Its bandwidth is unlimited, so you won’t face any lagging or buffering issues while using ExpressVPN. So, you can now watch Italian shows as well using this VPN on Rai TV in UK.

This VPN charges around GB£ 5.25/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Black Friday Deal: Grab 3 Free Months + 49% OFF 12-Month Plan and its 30-day money-back guarantee is just all the more reason to go for it. Long-term plans come with additional discounts, making it an economical choice for regular streamers.

2. Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN to Watch PBS in UK

A Budget-friendly VPN, Surfshark is the best bet to watch PBS in UK on an affordable pricing plan. Surfshark not only delivers swift access to HD content but also represents exceptional value for a premium VPN.

Despite its low rate, it has over 3200+ servers in over 100 countries and gives a great user experience.

Surfshark provides several US servers that are optimal for streaming PBS. Users have had great success with servers located in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles, known for their stability and speed in bypassing geo-restrictions.

We watched PBS in UK with Surfshark

This VPN maintains a smooth streaming experience, ensuring minimal buffering and high-quality video playback. It has an impressive average download speed of 85.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 48.64 Mbps, even on a 100 Mbps connection.

Surfshark’s speed test results in UK

These robust speeds ensure a buffer less streaming experience and also allow you to enjoy preferred content on platforms like, CNBC, Vudu, Telemundo, , and ESPN+ in the UK without encountering any technical disruptions.

You can also download Surfshark’s dedicated apps for a variety of devices, including FireOS, macOS, Linux, Windows, iOS, and Android. Notably, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous use on multiple devices with a single account, enhancing its versatility.

Surfshark has a range of impressive security, including Military-Grade Encryption, MultiHop, Camouflage Mode, NoBorders Mode, Bypasser, CleanWeb, No-Activity Logs, and round-the-clock Customer Support. These features safeguard your online privacy while streaming, providing peace of mind alongside entertainment.

The value is further enhanced with long-term plans, which significantly reduce the monthly cost, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious streamers.

It also offers live chat features available 24 hours a day for customer care. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can secure this VPN for just GB£ 1.57/mo (US$ 1.99/mo) - 86% Off on 2 Years Plan.

3. NordVPN: Largest Server Network to Watch PBS in UK

NordVPN offers the largest server network to watch PBS in UK. This ensures reliable and fast access making it a top choice for streaming enthusiasts.

It has 5543+ servers around the world, there are also 1970+ servers only in the United States particularly those in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, are optimized for streaming. Also enable you to indulge in your favorite content on platforms such as PBS or Tubi TV in UK.

They offer high-speed connections and are adept at circumventing geo-restrictions, providing uninterrupted access to PBS content.

We watched PBS in UK with NordVPN

We also tested ExpressVPN’s USA server and it provided an average downloading and uploading speed of 83.48 Mbps and 41.42 on the US server. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience, with minimal buffering and high-quality video.

NordVPN’s speed test results

if you’re interested in watching sports on Kayo Sports and Fox Sports in UK you can easily bypass its geo-restrictions using NordVPN’s US and Australian server.

NordVPN boasts a range of cutting-edge features, including AES-256 encryption, Multi-factor Authentication, Tap-jacking Protection, Split Tunneling, Kill Switch, Obfuscated Servers, No-Activity Logs, Double VPN, and round-the-clock Customer Service. These security measures ensure your streaming activities remain private and secure.

You will be able to watch multiple channels besides PBS in UK as ExpressVPN allows you to connect your 6 devices simultaneously on one account. So, you and your family members don’t have to worry about watching different shows at the same time.

NordVPN also offers a live chat option for their customers and you can avail of its subscription only at GB£ 2.75/mo (US$ 3.49/mo) - Save 60% on 2 Years Deal.

This competitive pricing, especially for longer-term plans, makes NordVPN an attractive option for those seeking a balance between cost and quality in their VPN service.

Is PBS free in UK?

Yes, PBS is a free-to-air television channel offered by PBS, an American broadcaster. To watch PBS free in UK, all you need is a VPN subscription a with a US IP address.

Get all the information you need about PBS’s availability and subscription costs in the UK. Is PBS free, or are there subscription fees involved? We break down the costs associated with accessing PBS, including the potential need for a paid VPN service.

Understand the differences between free and paid VPNs and how this choice can impact your streaming quality and content access on PBS.

How Much is the PBS Channel Per Month?

PBS is accessible through Amazon, with subscription fees ranging from GBP 2.41 to GBP 4.83 per month (equivalent to $2.99 to $5.99 per month).

Here are the subscription rates for different PBS channels:

• PBS Living: GBP 2.41 ($2.99) per month.
• PBS KIDS: GBP 4.03 ($4.99) per month.
• PBS Documentaries: GBP 3.22 ($3.99) per month.
• PBS MASTERPIECE: GBP 4.83 ($5.99) per month.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch PBS in UK?

Yes, the choice of using a free VPN to watch PBS in the UK is always available, but the downside of this option almost always outweighs its advantages. A free VPN service comes with a lot of security risks; for example, your online privacy won’t be secure anymore, and there will be limited unblocking of geo-restricted content.

Generally, free VPN users can not avail the facility of a kill switch. Lastly, there is always a possibility that such companies will sell out your online data.

What are the PBS Apps Compatible Devices in UK?

Learn which devices are compatible with PBS streaming in the UK and how to set them up for the best viewing experience. Our comprehensive guide covers a range of devices from smartphones to smart TVs, detailing the steps for each.

We provide specific instructions to ensure you can access PBS content seamlessly on your preferred devices such as:

• Android Devices
• iOS Devices
• Samsung Smart T.V
• Apple TV
• Amazon Firestick and Fire TV
• Roku
• PS3/PS4
• Xbox

What to Watch on PBS in UK in November 2023?

Explore our curated list of must-watch PBS shows and movies in 2023. From timeless classics to the latest hits, we highlight the best of PBS, ensuring you don’t miss out on any exceptional content.

Whether you’re looking for gripping documentaries, educational programs, PBS cooking shows, or entertaining series, our recommendations cater to all tastes and interests, enhancing your PBS viewing experience in the UK.

With a premium VPN, you can unlock a wealth of diverse and engaging content on PBS in the UK. PBS offers a vast array of programming that caters to various tastes and interests.

Get your PBS UK schedule and enjoy streaming now!

Best Movies to Watch on PBS in UK in 2023

Here are some of the top films currently available to watch on PBS TV channel UK:

• Victoria
• The Child in Time
• Elizabeth is Missing
• World Turned Odd
• The Forgotten Plague
• The Making Lady
• Daniel Tiger’s Neighbor
• Nature
• Sid The Science Kid
• Dinosaur Train: Adventure Island

Best Shows to Watch on PBS in UK in 2023

The following is a list of the top PBS shows that can be watched online in UK:

• PBS News Hour
• Masterpiece Theatre
• Nova
• Call the Midwife
• Arthur
• Finding Your Roots
• Wild Kratts
• Sesame Street
• Miss Scarlet and Duke
• Frontline

What’s New to Watch on PBS in UK in November 2023?

Here are some of the new features to watch on PBS in UK in November 2023:

• A People’s History of Native America
• Secrets of the Dead ‘Death in Britannia
• The Future of Forests
• Can A Billion Oysters Save New York City?
• Soil: The Dirt on Dirt!
• Message in a Bottle
• Annika Season 2
• Three Chaplains
• Price Discrimination
• Inside China’s Tech Boom
• Antibiotic Resistance

FAQs – PBS in UK

Final Thoughts!

Now that you’ve learned how to watch PBS in UK, it’s time to take action and enjoy the fantastic content it offers. To make this possible, consider investing in a reputable paid VPN service like ExpressVPN. By subscribing to ExpressVPN and connecting to the appropriate server, you can effectively bypass geo-restrictions and access PBS from the UK.

Once you have secured your VPN, sign up for a PBS account to unlock a world of captivating shows, movies, documentaries, news, and more. With PBS at your fingertips, you can start streaming your favorite programs and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse content library it has to offer.