How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland [Updated May 2024]

Avatar of Peter Thompson
Last Updated by on February 8, 2023

Is BBC iPlayer available in Ireland? Unfortunately BBC iPlayer is not available in Ireland! However, you can watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland with the help of a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.

Table of Contents

How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland 2024

  1. Subscribe to a VPN service (We recommend ExpressVPN)
  2. Download and install its App.
  3. Visit its official website, create your account, and start streaming the BBC iPlayer in Ireland.


Why You Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland

BBC iPlayer is an excellent streaming service only available to UK residents due to licensing and copyright agreements.

Thus, you will see the following message whenever you try to access BBC iPlayer outside the UK and from anywhere.

BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to right issues.

bbc iplayer geo-restriction error

You would need a VPN to watch American Netflix in Ireland, HBO Max in Ireland, or Disney Plus in Ireland, you will also need a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland.

By using a reputable VPN, all you need is to connect with the fastest servers in the UK to ensure uninterrupted streaming. For instance, we strongly recommend using ExpressVPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland and many other streaming sites.


Top VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland [Quick Guide May 2024]

If you are in a hurry, here are the Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland:

  1. ExpressVPN It comes with lightning fast VPN connection to ensure you Ultra HD streaming from anywhere at any time. You can access 3000+ global servers, including 20+ location servers in the US. In addition to this, you can save up to 49% on its 1-year plan, cutting the original cost to only $6.71/month.
  2. Surfshark Features smart DNS to unblock streaming platforms and channels that don’t support the app. You can access 3200+ global servers at low prices, including 20+ US servers. So you will always have something to watch when the cost is $2.30 a month. In addition, you can get an 82% discount on its 2-year plan and an unlimited device connection.
  3. NordVPN It ensures reliable VPN connection & buffer-free streaming from anywhere. With many servers, you can stream restricted content without violating your privacy. The subscription comes with easy access to 5000+ global servers, including 1970+ servers in the US. In addition, a huge 68% discount is available on its 2-year plan, so you will only need to pay $3.71 a month.


Can A Free VPN Unlock BBC iPlayer in Ireland?

A free VPN can provide access to BBC iPlayer in Ireland, but we do not advise using one because they have limited servers and a large user base.

Furthermore, these free VPNs offer inadequate streaming speeds when streaming the BBC iPlayer in Ireland or any other geo-restricted location.

Even if you discover a free VPN that allows access to BBC iPlayer in Ireland, you will experience extreme lagging and poor video quality because free VPNs have data caps.

Thus, we recommend using a paid VPN service to avoid potential risks.


3 Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer Ireland [In- Depth Guide 2024]

Our top picks for VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland are as follows:


ExpressVPN — Recommended VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland

  • Ultra-Fast speed with unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.
  • 3000+ Servers in 90+ Countries, including 20+ location servers in US.
  • Comes with five simultaneous device connections
  • Compatible with Windows, MacOS, iOS, Smart TV, Linux, and more.

ExpressVPN has incredible server speed to ensure smooth and high-quality streaming from anywhere. It has 3000+ optimized servers installed in 90+ countries and 20+ location servers in the US only. It comes with Ultra fast connection speed, allowing users to have top-quality streaming without error.

Its high-speed servers can easily unblock geo-restricted streaming platforms, encrypt your data, bypass the IP tracking system, and provide unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.

Regarding device compatibility, ExpressVPN has a dedicated VPN app designed for all compatible devices and routers. It offers five simultaneous device connections that you can run on macOS, iOS, Android, Fire devices, browsers, gaming consoles, routers, smart TVs, and more.

Now, let's talk about its price!

Its yearly subscription will cost you $6.67/month, with an extra three months for free. Furthermore, you can connect up to 5 simultaneous devices with a single subscription.


unblock bbc iplayer with expressvpn

Unblock BBC iPlayer in Ireland with Expressvpn


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • A bit costly service


Surfshark — Low-Cost VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland

  • Comes with SmartDNS to unblock content on non-native devices
  • 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux,  smart TVs, and more
  • Offers minimum price of about $2.30/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark's minimum price tag makes it the most wallet-friendly VPN for streaming. It is equipped with 3000+ global servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US. Surfshark stands out among all is non, but it's a Smart DNS server that enables users to access geo-restricted content without a native app.

Moreover, a Surfshark subscription ensures unlimited device connection on all compatible devices, whether Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, smart TVs, or more.

Regarding price, you can expect to have $2.30/month, saving 82% on its two-year plan along with two extra months. It offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, ultra HD streaming, Unlimited bandwidth, and Zero log policy, all wrapped under its modest pricing plan.


unblock bbc iplayer with surfshark

Unblock BBC iPlayer in Ireland with Surfshark


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • Poor Customer Support
  • Some user experience low speed


NordVPN — Reliable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland

  • NordLynx Protocol to help boost streaming experience
  • 5000+ Servers in 60 Countries including 17 location servers in the US.
  • Comes with 6 simultaneous device connections.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, iOS, Linus, Smart TVs & Routers.

When it comes to reliability, you won't find any other option better than NordVPN!

Apart from its giant web of VPN servers, including 17 server locations in the US, NordVPN has recently launched NordLynx. This new-generation VPN protocol provides an improved connection for an uninterrupted streaming experience.

NordVPN has SmartPlay integration that unblocks various content with its IP spoofing feature. Like Surfshark, NordVPN incorporates its dedicated SmartDNS service that can easily unblock geo-restricted content on devices with no native app.

You can connect Nord with almost all devices, including windows, macOS, Android, Apple, Smart TV, Xbox, PS series, and more. The cost will drastically reduce if you opt for its two-year plan, which will cost you $3.49/per month, six device connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.


unblock bbc iplayer with nordvpn

Unblock BBC iPlayer in Ireland with Nordvpn


Pros

  • 5000+ global servers
  • Secure VPN System
  • Zero Logs Policy
  • Works in China and the UAE
  • 24/7 Live Chat Support
  • Military grade Encryption
  • Private DNS System

Cons

  • Little Expensive
  • No app for router


Unable to Stream iPlayer in Ireland- Troubleshooting Tips

The following steps will help you troubleshoot the problem and determine why BBC IPlayer isn’t working. After each step, verify that the issue has been resolved. If it hasn’t, move on to the next step.

  1. Connect to a new UK server by opening the server selection menu on your VPN. If it still doesn’t work, try another server.
  2. Delete all your tracking cookies. You will typically find this under a settings tab titled “Privacy & Security” (Firefox and Chrome), “Clear Browsing Data” (Edge), or “Manage Website Data” (Safari). Next, select the option to clear all cookies.
  3. Please close your browser, reopen it, and check access to BBC iPlayer again.
  4. Open your VPN app and navigate to its settings. Enable the “leak protection” option or “IPv6 leak protection.”
  5. Sync your device with the UK time zone, and The UK uses Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+0) or British Summer Time (UTC+1), depending on the time of year.
  6. Rather than using a smartTV or smartphone, install the VPN on your computer and then go to BBC iPlayer through your desktop browser.

Best streaming service alternatives for BBC iPlayer

More than 25 alternatives to BBC iPlayer are available for different platforms, including iPhone, iPad, Online / Web-based, Android, and Android Tablet.

Of course, Netflix is the best alternative. Unfortunately, it’s not free, so you can try Apple TV if you want a free alternative. Also, there are some great paid apps such as Hulu, Disney+, HBO Now, Amazon Prime Video, etc.


How to Subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Ireland?

This guide will walk you through how to subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Ireland or anywhere else globally.

  • Start by subscribing to a trustworthy VPN of your choice. ExpressVPN is our top recommendation.
  • Install and download the ExpressVPN app on your device.
  • Connect to a UK server from the list of servers in the VPN app.
  • Visit BBC iPlayer’s official website or app.
  • Go to the sign-in option.
  • Click the ‘Register’ option to proceed.
  • It will take you to the signup page, where you must fill in your personal information.
  • After providing the above information, Use SW1A 1AA for London, E1 OAA for East London, and E16 2JE for Docklands as postal codes.
  • Once you have provided all the details, select the “Register” option, verify your email, and successfully subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Ireland.

bbc iplayer sign up page

Based on your age, they will ask for the following information.

If you’re over 18 and in the UK

You only need to provide your email address, postcode, and password.

If you’re between 13 and 18 and in the UK.

You only have to provide your email address, password, and date of birth.

If you’re under 13

They will ask you for a username (in place of an email address), password, and date of birth.

If you’re in Ireland or outside the UK

They will ask for your age, email address, country, and password.

If you’re in Ireland or outside the UK and under 16

A BBC account will not allow you to subscribe to the child-specific content available in the UK. In addition, it will not let you create a BBC account outside the UK, but luckily using a VPN, you can do that.


How much does BBC iPlayer cost in Ireland?

BBC iPlayer is a free-of-cost streaming service that lets you watch live and recorded television from all the BBC stations. BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four, CBBC, BBC News, and Radio 1 are all included. Unfortunately, the BBC iPlayer is only available to citizens of the United Kingdom.

However, by using a premium VPN, you can stream BBC iPlayer in Ireland or anywhere in the world. So, you only have to pay a nominal VPN subscription fee.


Does Smart DNS proxy work with BBC iPlayer?

Yes, Smart DNS Proxy works with BBC iPlayer; it allows you to choose your preferred server to unblock almost every geo-restriction you want.

However, Smart DNS offers fast speeds, while a VPN provides online protection. A VPN also bypasses censorship and offers security and privacy-oriented features as well. Therefore we highly recommend using a credible VPN to access BBC iPlayer in Ireland.


Is it legal to stream BBC iPlayer in Ireland?

Yes. It is legal to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland. But, you need to be registered by a TV license if you watch or record programs as they’re being shown on TV or live on an online TV service, or download or watch any BBC programs on BBC iPlayer.

This applies to any device or provider you use. Without a TV license, BBC iPlayer will attempt to prevent you from streaming abroad using its advanced VPN-detection features. If BBC iPlayer finds out you’re using a VPN, you’ll just be asked to turn it off.

As of yet, we have not heard of anyone having their account banned for using a VPN to watch this streaming service.


Devices Compatible With BBC iPlayer in Ireland

BBC iPlayer is compatible with all major devices, so if you want to download BBC iPlayer app in Ireland or anywhere outside the UK on your device, here are the instructions:


For Android users

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

For iOS Users

  1. Begin by changing your Apple ID region to the United Kingdom in Settings > Network.
  2. Open ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
  3. Connect to a server in the United Kingdom.
  4. Search for BBC iPlayer in the Apple App Store.
  5. Install the App and log in to your account to start streaming your favorite shows.

For Roku Users

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

For PS3/PS4 Users

  1. Set up your console.
  2. Launch ExpressVPN App.
  3. Log in to connect with the UK server.
  4. Go to the category of TV/Video Services.
  5. From the list of alternatives, look for "BBC iPlayer."
  6. Select "Get" from the drop-down menu.
  7. BBC iPlayer has now been added to your "My Channels" list.

For Xbox Users

  1. Set up and open your Xbox.
  2. Download ExpressVPN.
  3. Log in to connect with the server in UK
  4. From the Xbox menu, select "My games & apps."
  5. Search for "BBC iPlayer" in the "Xbox Store."
  6. That's it! Click the "Install" button.

For Kodi Users

  1. Install a VPN that is compatible with Crackle TV. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect your Kodi device to your VPN.
  3. Download the VPN software to your computer, save it to a USB stick, and plug it into your Kodi device.
  4. On your Kodi device, go to Settings, System Settings, and Add-ons.
  5. Now toggle on Unknown Sources.
  6. Install the VPN app on your Kodi device. Connect to a server in the United Kingdom after that.
  7. Go to Kodi's home screen by turning on your TV.
  8. Lastly, install the BBC iPlayer add-on on Kodi to start watching.

For Firestick Users

  1. Start up your Firestick and go to Search.
  2. Switch to unknown sources and download ExpressVPN, then connect to the UK server.
  3. Enter the word "BBC iPlayer" and press enter.
  4. The 'BBC iPlayer app for Fire TV Stick' will appear in the search results.
  5. The App will be downloaded after you click 'Get.'
  6. After the BBC iPlayer app has been installed, open it.
  7. Open the BBC iPlayer app and sign up/log in with your credentials.
  8. Now you can start watching BBC iPlayer on Firestick.

For Apple TV Users

  1. Choose a VPN service that allows you to use Smart DNS. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Find your Smart DNS addresses, go to your Apple TV's Settings menu, and select Network at the bottom of the page.
  3. Choose your Network by pressing the Wi-Fi button.
  4. Then go to DNS Configuration and choose Manual Configuration.
  5. Connect your Apple TV to a UK server by typing in your DNS address and restarting it.
  6. On your Apple TV, you are done and download and install the BBC iPlayer app.

For Smart TV Users

  1. Download and install a premium VPN. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to a UK-based server
  3. Go into your Wi-Fi router's admin.
  4. Connect it to your VPN network.
  5. Download the BBC iPlayer app on your smart TV, and create a free account to start watching.

For PC Users

  1. On your computer, download and install a premium VPN. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to a UK-based server.
  3. Go to the BBC iPlayer website, sign up for an account, or log in.
  4. If you're still having trouble watching BBC iPlayer, delete your cookies and cache before logging in.

What if I don’t have the BBC iPlayer app installed?

If you don’t have the BBC iPlayer app, you can still watch BBC iPlayer by accessing the website. To stream BBC iPlayer, please go to bbc.co.uk/iplayer.

When you access the website on your mobile device or tablet, you can:

  • play on-demand programs via WiFi or mobile data.
  • play live TV channels via WiFi or mobile data.

What to Watch on BBC iPlayer Ireland?

To make your life more convenient, we have compiled a list of the Best BBC iPlayer movies, TV shows, and channels, top titles that you can watch in Ireland by using a credible VPN:


BBC iPlayer Channels

  • BBC One (Live Stream)
  • BBC Two
  • CBBC
  • BBC Four
  • BBC News
  • Cbeebies
  • BBC Three
  • BBC Scotland
  • S4C
  • BBC Parliament
  • BBC Alba
  • Radio 1

Best BBC iPlayer Shows

  • The Missing
  • I May Destroy You
  • Life on Mars
  • Responsible Child
  • The Salisbury Poisonings
  • Traces
  • Torchwood
  • Moving On
  • The Fades
  • Don’t Take My Baby
  • The Luminaries
  • Harlots

Best BBC iPlayer Movies

  • The Remains of the Day (1993)
  • All Is True (2018)
  • Horrible Histories: The Movie (2019)
  • King of Kings (1961)
  • Into the Woods (2014)
  • Shrek: The Ghost of Lord Farquaad (2014)
  • The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
  • The Lion King (1994)
  • The Beguiled (2017)
  • Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)
  • When Eight Bells Toll (1971)
  • The Imitation Game (2014)
  • Funny Girl (1968)

BBC iPlayer Upcoming Shows on May 2024

  • HAPPY VALLEY
  • WATERLOO ROAD
  • THIS TOWN
  • SILENT WITNESS
  • SHUGGIE BAIN
  • BOILING POINT
  • MAYFLIES
  • THE WOMAN IN THE WALL
  • CHAMPION
  • TEN POUND POMS
  • TWO TONE (working title)
  • CALL THE MIDWIFE
  • THE GOLD
  • RAIN DOGS
  • BEST INTERESTS
  • GREAT EXPECTATIONS
  • MARIE ANTOINETTE

In which country is BBC iPlayer available?

Only UK residents have access to BBC iPlayer. British ex-pats living in the US, Australia, Canada, Germany, UAE, Spain, or even Ireland cannot watch any content on BBC. However, using a premium VPN lets you access BBC iPlayer anywhere globally.


FAQs on BBC iPlayer in Ireland


Is BBC iPlayer available in Ireland?

No, but you can access BBC iPlayer in Ireland if you use a trustworthy VPN, and we suggest you use ExpressVPN.


Can I watch BBC iPlayer abroad?

Yes, it is possible to watch BBC iPlayer from abroad. You just need to download and set up a VPN on your router or computer. Our first recommendation is ExpressVPN.


Is watching BBC iPlayer in Ireland legal?

Definitely. Watching BBC iPlayer is legal in Ireland. But, you have to be registered by a TV license if you watch or watch programs as they’re being shown on TV or live on an online TV service or download or watch any BBC programs on BBC iPlayer.


How do I make a BBC iPlayer account outside the UK?

It is not difficult to create an account outside the UK. Visit bbc.co.uk to sign up for a new account. However, insert the United Kingdom in the field where it says “Country”. You must also find a UK postal code online.


Why can’t I access BBC iPlayer from Ireland with my VPN?

It is possible that BBC iPlayer detected your IP address through its anti-VPN technology. However, it is easy to fix. Simply connect to a new UK server instead of your existing one. That will give you a new non-blocked IP address in the UK.


Can I unblock other streaming services with my VPN?

Yes, you can unblock almost every streaming platform, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Voot, Peacock, etc.


How can BBC iPlayer know I’m not in the UK?

There are several reasons why BBC iPlayer knows you are outside the UK. One of the most common is Your IP address, which is not from the UK. However, you hide your IP address using a trusted VPN to avoid this problem. We recommend ExpressVPN.


Will BBC iPlayer know that I have a VPN?

Like many other streaming services, BBC iPlayer may detect you using a VPN through its anti-VPN technology. However, if you use a premium VPN service, you won’t have this problem. That’s why we highly suggest ExpressVPN.


Is BBC iPlayer free?

Yes, BBC iPlayer is a free service. However, you must purchase a VPN subscription if you want to watch BBC iPlayer from the USA. Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN.


Can you have more than one user signed in?

Indeed, you have. There is a limit of four profiles per device on BBC iPlayer.


Wrapping It Up!

Hopefully, now you know how to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland. If you have any questions, please let us know in the comment section below, and we’ll be happy to help.

Suppose you want to unblock geo-restricted websites or want to watch BBC iPlayer in Ireland. In that case, we highly recommend that you subscribe to ExpressVPN (because of its high-speed servers) so that you can access an entire modern world of entertainment from anywhere in the world!