How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain in 2024
BBC iPlayer offers a wide variety of captivating content, from thought-provoking documentaries to gripping dramas. But unfortunately, BBC iPlayer is blocked outside the UK. This is due to broadcasting regulations and licensing agreements that the service has to abide by.
The good news is that you can use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain. All you have to do is connect to a UK VPN server. Once you do that, you’ll be able to unblock BBC iPlayer because the streaming service won’t see you’re in Spain. Instead, it will look like you’re in the UK, so you won’t be affected by geo-restrictions anymore.
In this article, we’ll teach you how to access BBC iPlayer in Spain and discuss why you need a VPN to accomplish this. After that, we’ll share the top 3 VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer. Plus, we’ll give you some ideas of what you can binge-watch on iPlayer and tell you if you can download BBC iPlayer on your device in Spain. Finally, we’ll answer the most important FAQs.
How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain
To watch BBC iPlayer in Spain, you simply need to use a VPN and connect to a UK server. This will change your IP address to one from the UK, tricking iPlayer into giving you access to its free content. Follow these steps to make things easy:
- Subscribe to a powerful iPlayer VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download and install the VPN on your device.
- Launch the VPN and log in with your new account.
- Connect to a UK-based server.
- Using any Web browser, go to iPlayer’s website.
- Click "Sign in" at the top of the home page.
- Create a new account by clicking "Register now."
- Set the age for the account user.
- Add your birthday to verify your age.
- Complete your profile. Set the country as United Kingdom and enter any UK postcode.
- Pick any title you wish to stream and click "Play."
- Confirm that you have a TV license.
- Decide whether you want to use iPlayer’s parental controls.
- That's it! Now your video will begin streaming.
Do You Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain?
Yes, you absolutely need a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain. This is because BBC iPlayer is only available in the UK, and it blocks anyone who tries to play its content from other countries. At the moment, using a VPN is the most reliable solution for bypassing these geo-restrictions.
You'll be able to access BBC iPlayer's site and browse its content, but you won't be able to play anything. Unless you use a VPN, iPlayer will check your location by reading your IP address. If you don’t have a British IP, you’ll see the following message: “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”
This is when your access to iPlayer will be blocked. As you can already see, the solution to iPlayer’s geo-block is to change your IP address. That’s precisely what VPNs are designed to do. However, since you need a UK IP address, you need to use a VPN that offers a server fleet in the United Kingdom. This is the only way you can watch BBC iPlayer from abroad.
That said, you need the best VPN for BBC iPlayer, as not every VPN will be able to unblock the streaming service. Our top recommendation is NordVPN because it works with iPlayer every single time, delivering fast speeds when connecting to UK servers from Spain. It's also user-friendly and works on any device, so you can watch BBC iPlayer on your computer, phone, tablet, and more.
The Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain
To choose the best VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain, make sure that it can easily unblock BBC iPlayer. The VPN should come with enough UK servers, so you won’t have problems with overcrowding. At the same time, having a large global server network is also necessary because you’ll be able to unblock other streaming services.
The VPN needs to deliver reliable performance and fast connection speeds so you get a smooth streaming experience. Premium VPNs must offer tons of security and privacy features to protect your data like obfuscation and a kill switch. You also need a strict no-logs policy, secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, and robust encryption like AES-256.
Look for a VPN that provides apps compatible with your devices (smart TVs, tablets, PCs, smartphones, and so on). The ability to connect simultaneous devices for streaming is also important. Last but not least, you should have access to 24/7 live chat support and a money-back policy.
Based on the criteria mentioned, here are the best VPNs to stream BBC iPlayer in Spain:
- NordVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN for Watching BBC iPlayer in Spain
- Surfshark – Get BBC iPlayer in Spain with Blazing Streaming Speeds
- ExpressVPN – Fast VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer from Spain
1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN for Watching BBC iPlayer in Spain
NordVPN is the best VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain. It consistently unblocks BBC iPlayer, boasting an extensive server network comprising over 6,000 servers across 61 countries, including 440+ UK servers strategically located in cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
During our testing of NordVPN's UK locations, we experienced remarkable streaming speeds, with HD and 4K videos loading swiftly and playing back seamlessly without buffering. Notably, there were no discernible quality drops even when skipping through content. We were also able to connect to any servers without encountering overcrowding.
Beyond its exceptional performance, NordVPN stands out with top-notch security features. It includes a customizable kill switch, robust encryption, obfuscation, a stringent no-logs policy, and fast protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx). For an extra additional fee, you can also get dedicated IPs, which are less likely to be detected by streaming services.
NordVPN is compatible with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as streaming devices like smart TVs. Moreover, it allows up to 6 simultaneous connections. Your purchase will be protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee. For added convenience, NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support for any assistance.
PROS
- 440+ UK servers.
- Unblocks BBC iPlayer effortlessly.
- Fast streaming speeds.
- 6 simultaneous devices.
- 24/7 live chat.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Only some servers have obfuscation.
2. Surfshark – Get BBC iPlayer in Spain with Blazing Streaming Speeds
Surfshark is another excellent VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in Spain because it unblocks BBC iPlayer with ease. This VPN stands out as a broad and dependable service with over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, including 212 UK servers in cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Manchester.
Surfshark delivers swift speeds and optimized performance, as demonstrated in our tests where HD and 4K videos loaded promptly with minimal buffering. It didn’t matter whether we were connected to servers closer or further away—we always enjoyed super-fast connections.
Prioritizing user privacy, Surfshark incorporates features like obfuscation and a kill switch. Additionally, it employs advanced protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, along with a strict no-logs policy and high-end AES-256 encryption.
A standout feature is its allowance of unlimited simultaneous connections, providing exceptional convenience. Compatible with various devices including computers, phones, tablets, smart TVs, and more, Surfshark ensures wide accessibility.
With a straightforward 30-day money-back guarantee, Surfshark also offers 24/7 support via live chat for any inquiries related to its plans. Last but not least, on the VPN’s website, you can also find up-to-date guides and in-depth troubleshooting articles.
PROS
- Consistently unblocks BBC iPlayer.
- Servers in 4 UK locations.
- High-speed connections for streaming.
- Unlimited simultaneous devices allowed.
- 24/7 customer support.
- 30-day refund period.
CONS
- Can be slow to connect.
3. ExpressVPN – Fast VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer from Spain
ExpressVPN is ideal for streaming BBC iPlayer on-the-go because it effortlessly unblocks BBC iPlayer and numerous other services. Once you subscribe to a plan, you can connect to 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, including 5 UK locations: Docklands, the Midlands, London, East London, and Wembley.
ExpressVPN ensures high performance and impressive speeds for smooth HD and 4K streaming on BBC iPlayer. We didn’t experience buffering during any of our tests.
Security-wise, ExpressVPN is backed by obfuscation on all servers, a strict no-logs policy, and a reliable kill switch. Your data is also under protection because it has AES 256-bit encryption and top-notch protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the exclusive Lightway, which was developed in-house and is the best option for streaming.
The VPN supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Firestick, smart TVs, and more. Plus, for your convenience, it also has a dedicated router app. All its apps work flawlessly, and we didn’t experience any crashes or bugs when we tested them.
ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous connections. It also has 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee. We tested the live chat support feature and the reps were always knowledgeable and answered our inquiries quickly.
PROS
- Works well with BBC iPlayer.
- Fast speeds on all servers.
- Coverage in 5 UK cities.
- 8 simultaneous connections.
- Live chat support available 24/7.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- Limited customization.
Can I Download BBC iPlayer in Spain on My Device?
Yes, you can download BBC iPlayer in Spain on your device, but only if you use a VPN. Since the streaming service is geo-restricted and available in the UK only, you’ll need to change your IP address. That means replacing your real IP with one from the VPN by connecting to a UK server. This way, BBC iPlayer won’t see your real location.
You can download the BBC iPlayer app on streaming devices like your phone, tablet, Firestick, Roku, smart TV, and more. But keep in mind that you need to set your device’s location to the UK before that. To make things easier, we made simple, step-by-step guides on how to download the BBC iPlayer app outside the UK.
What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in Spain?
Unlocking BBC iPlayer with a VPN opens up a treasure trove of captivating content. Whether you crave gripping series, blockbuster movies, engaging shows, or thrilling sports events, BBC iPlayer has a little bit of everything.
You can watch critically acclaimed movies such as Detroit, Edie, and The Theory of Everything. The platform doesn't fall short on compelling shows either, offering a variety of titles that include Sherlock, Killing Eve, and Doctor Who.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy content like Match of The Day, Sportscene, and Slammed: The Eighties. There is also coverage of sporting events, such as Northern Ireland motorcycle racing, World Indoor Bowls Championships, boxing, cycling, field hockey, kabaddi, rugby, and more. You can also watch channels like BBC Radio 1, CBBC, and BBC News.
Here are a few more recommendations you can add to your watch list:
Why Can't I Watch BBC iPlayer in Spain?
If you can't watch BBC iPlayer in Spain with a VPN, this could be due to a number of possible issues. For the most part, a VPN should give you a seamless experience, but errors can occur. Here are some troubleshooting solutions you can try:
- Restart Your Device/VPN – It might seem simple, but rebooting your device and VPN often solves many issues. It's definitely the first thing you should try.
- Check Your Internet Connection – Make sure your Internet is fast and stable enough for streaming to begin with. If it's not, the VPN might not work properly.
- Update Your VPN – When updates are released for VPNs, they often contain important patches and bug fixes, which can sometimes resolve connectivity and functionality issues. Make sure you keep your VPN updated at all times.
- Use Obfuscation – When you connect to an obfuscated server, it will hide your VPN usage from BBC iPlayer. This helps unblock the service effectively.
- Connect to a Different VPN Server – Sometimes, something as simple as trying a different server can help you unblock iPlayer. Aside from slowing you down, an overcrowded server can have difficulty unblocking websites. So, use your VPN app’s interface to switch to another server.
- Switch to Another VPN Protocol – Try a different protocol by changing it in your VPN's settings. For streaming, it’s best to use OpenVPN or WireGuard. And also, there’s NordVPN’s NordLynx, known for its speed and security.
- Remove Cache Files – Every website stores cookies and cache files on your device. When it comes to iPlayer, those files might point to your actual location, which is how iPlayer can block your access. So, the solution is to clear cookies and other files from your browser.
- Use Private/Incognito Mode – If your Web browser needs a little “push” to unblock iPlayer, you can try using its Private, Incognito, or InPrivate mode. That’s how you’ll prevent iPlayer from storing any data locally, forcing it to read your location based on the data your VPN provides. In other words, you can trick the streaming service into thinking you’re in the UK.
- Temporarily Disable Your Device's Firewall – VPNs and firewalls often don't play well together. Try disabling your firewall and see if your VPN starts working with BBC iPlayer. If it does, make sure you add an exception to your firewall's rules to allow your VPN.
- Turn Off Your Device's GPS Location Temporarily – Your GPS can easily give away your true location. Try turning it off and see if things start working.
- Ask Your VPN for Assistance – If nothing else helps, you can turn to your VPN's support team. Premium VPNs offer 24/7-available live chat support, so you'll get to speak to a real person and see if they have any suggestions.
If you need additional tips, here’s our guide to troubleshooting VPNs. Furthermore, we also offer a guide on dealing with VPN error codes, which you'll find helpful if an error happens as you try to connect to your VPN.
Final Thoughts
BBC iPlayer is a popular streaming service that offers tons of shows and movies. However, it’s available only in the UK due to various copyright agreements. This means you won’t be able to access it from Spain. Fortunately, you can use a VPN to bypass these restrictions and stream your favorite content anyway.
We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for watching BBC iPlayer in Spain. It unblocks plenty of streaming platforms, including BBC iPlayer, and it offers blazing-fast speeds. Plus, it has impressive security features, so your data won’t leak online.
That would be all on how to watch BBC iPlayer in Spain for free. Feel free to use the comments section below if you have any questions. Lastly, thank you for reading!