How to Watch Hotstar in UK [Ultimate Guide February 2024]

Avatar of Tyler Willis
Last Updated by on February 8, 2023

Is Hotstar available in the UK? Unfortunately, Hotstar is not available in the UK. However, a premium VPN allows you to watch Hotstar in UK.

Table of Contents

Because Disney+ Hotstar is geo-restricted outside India, thus, you cannot access it directly from the UK. So, the only way to watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK is by using a VPN.

In this article, We will show you how to bypass Disney+ Hotstar’s geo-restrictions and enjoy the service without interruption in the UK. Please read on for more information:

How to Watch Hotstar in UK 2024

  • Subscribe to ExpressVPN (our top recommendation).
  • Log in and choose an Indian server.
  • You can now access Disney+ Hotstar App in the UK.

Unblock Hotstar in the UK

Why is Hotstar not available in the UK?

Hotstar was initially only available in India. Eventually, they expanded to the US, Canada, and the UK.

However, Unfortunately, the movies and shows on Disney+ Hotstar (Hotstar India) are not available on Hotstar UK.

If you are in the UK, you will miss out on Indian content that is exclusively available in Hotstar India (Disney+ Hotstar) only.

This is due to content distribution rights and licensing agreements. Movies that are shown in India might not be available on the British version of Hotstar.

Fortunately, with the help of a trustworthy VPN, you can unblock Disney+ Hotstar in UK.

Quick Overview – 3 Best VPNs to Watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK

  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.

Why Do You Need a VPN to Unblock Disney+ Hotstar in UK?

Even though Hotstar is available in the UK, its content library doesn’t match Disney+ Hotstar India. The Indian streaming service offers more movies and shows for viewers than the Hotstar UK version.

However, if you try to visit India Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) from the UK, it will show you the following error message:

www.hotstar.com.in is not available in the UK.

Though Hotstar is available in the UK, its library is limited to specific content titles, and free content is not available in the UK. These limitations are because of content licensing and distribution regulations.

A VPN will mask your DNS and IP address, which will hide your original location and appear as if you are in India.

Using a VPN is like wearing a cloak of invisibility; you can access the internet anywhere without restrictions or fear of being caught.

Top VPNs to Watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK

Choosing a VPN provider that provides good services and functionality is essential. The following is a list of the top best VPNs that can help you watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK.

ExpressVPN — Best VPN to Watch Hotstar in UK

  • 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 hotstar with expressvpn

Unblock Hotstar in UK 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
Buy ExpressVPN Now!

Surfshark — Affordable VPN to Access Hotstar in UK

  • 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 hotstar with surfshark

Unblock Hotstar in UK 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
Get Surfshark Now!

NordVPN — Reliable VPN to Stream Hotstar in UK

  • 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 hotstar with nordvpn

Unblock Hotstar in UK 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
Get NordVPN Now!

How to Choose the Best VPN to Watch Hotstar in UK

Are you wondering how to choose the best VPN for streaming? Don’t worry; we have got your back. Read on to find the process to select best of the best VPN for streaming.

Hundreds of VPN services are available, but not all offer similar services.

VPNs differ significantly based on network size, security, speed, reliability, and customer support.

I researched the following features to rank our recommended VPNs that will help you to access Adult swim in UK, PBS in UK, and ViuTV in UK and used a combination of metrics.

Below are the primary factors I used to evaluate the best VPNs to watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UK.

Servers located in India

If you want Hotstar to unblock Disney+ Hotstar in UK, you need to use a VPN with servers in India (or virtual servers with an India IP address).

Having Streaming Features

A VPN must have strong streaming features to stream Hotstar in UK successfully. All VPNs allow you to securely access a wide range of streaming services on this list.

Infinite Bandwidth

Some VPNs throttle or halt downloads above a certain threshold if they have data caps or bandwidth limits. I have listed only VPNs that provide unlimited bandwidth to allow you to stream Disney+ Hotstar as much as you want.

Zero Logging Policy

VPN services should ensure that no logs are kept, which means that no information about your online activities is stored or recorded. This also applies to IP addresses. The ideal VPN service provider collects no information about its customers, so this data cannot be compromised or manipulated.

Privacy and Security

Strong encryption ensures unauthorized parties cannot monitor the VPN user’s activities. In addition, a VPN must include kill switches and DNS leak protection features to ensure no private or sensitive information leaves your device.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK?

Are you interested in utilizing free VPN services to access Disney+ Hotstar in UK? Then make sure you read this!

Free VPNs won’t ensure your security and privacy as they offer free-of-cost services and aren’t reliable enough to be acquired.

Moreover, it is nearly impossible to watch it risk-free because free VPN services carry numerous risks.

Additionally, free VPNs won’t always provide you access to Disney+ Hotstar. Disney+ Hotstar’s IP tracking system will soon realize your source and block you immediately.

Because of this, We do not recommend using a free VPN for watching Disney+ Hotstar in UK or anywhere around the world.

Try ExpressVPN Now!

How to Subscribe to Disney+ Hotstar in UK?

The good news is if you use a VPN service that offers Indian servers, you can easily sign up for Disney+ Hotstar for free, OR you can subscribe to Disney+ Hotstar Premium & VIP Plans at the lowest price in the UK.

Attention: To get a Disney+ Hotstar subscription in the UK, you will need a debit/credit card accepted in India. For this, request someone in India to help you pay using their card. To do so:

Steps to Sign-Up to Disney+ Hotstar in UK

  1. Download and Sign-up for a VPN (I highly recommend ExpressVPN).
  2. Use a VPN client to connect to an Indian server.
  3. Go to the Disney+ Hotstar website and “Choose Your Plan” from the list.
  4. Now enter your email and password to register.
  5. Then choose a convenient payment option and finish the process.
  6. After the process, you can enjoy discounted premium content on Disney+ Hotstar in UK.

How Much Does Hotstar Cost in the UK?

Hotstar is now accessible in the UK with two subscription options: Annual Plan for £49.99 (a discount of £27.99). Monthly Plan: £5.99/month.

However, if you want to sign up for Disney+ Hotstar in UK, you can do that with the help of a VPN.

Also, you will get a massive discount along with a ton of Indian content that is not available on Hotstar UK. For reference, ₹299 is equivalent to $3.91. So when you use a VPN to connect to Disney+ Hotstar, you can access extra content and save $6 per month.

Why Indian Hotstar version is the best?

Why Indian Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar)? Because Indian Hotstar offers free subscriptions and has the largest Indian library of content compared to foreign versions.

Here are some of the factors why Indian Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) is better than Hotstar UK:

  1. Disney+ Hotstar is cheaper than foreign versions.
  2. Indian Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) offers a lot of free content, including the Champions League and a premium version where you can watch your favorite shows from its biggest Indian library that are not available on any other version.
  3. Mouse House offers its content in India through Hotstar only, which means you can now watch Disney+ movies and TV shows on Indian Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar).

How to set up a premium Hotstar account in the UK

Do you want to set up a Hotstar premium account outside India? Here’s how to set it up in minutes.

  • Subscribe to a VPN that provides high-quality service.
  • Now choose an Indian server.
  • Select your preferred payment method and pay for the premium Disney+ Hotstar Account.
  • Furthermore, you can use your friend’s Indian payment credentials as well.

Indian Hotstar Compared to its Versions in Other Regions

There are two major benefits of sticking with Indian Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) compared to its foreign versions. Which are given below:

1. Difference in Pricing

Hotstar prices vary depending on where you are in the world:

  • India: ₹299 a month and For Super Plan ₹75 a month
  • Canada: CAD 12.99 a month
  • UK: £5.99 a month

For reference, ₹299 is equivalent to $3.91. So when you use a VPN to connect to Indian Hotstar, you can watch a lot of extra content and save $6 per month.

2. Content differentiation and free streaming

Hotstar India (Disney+ Hotstar) has a large content library that you can’t access outside of India without a VPN.

The international version of Hotstar is available in Canada, Singapore, and the UK, but it doesn’t give you access to all the content Disney+ Hotstar offers. This is due to the geo-restrictions imposed by content license agreements.

Disney+ Hotstar features a huge catalog of content from around the world. It has the biggest Bollywood blockbusters, including Bala, Mission Mangal, and Badhai Ho.

You can also access sporting events, including football matches and the Indian Premier League cricket.

Hotstar is Not Available in Most Countries

Disney+ Hotstar is available in India, Indonesia, Canada, Malaysia, and the UK.

Last Year, Hotstar was discontinued in the US; however, you can still enjoy LIVE cricket, your favorite Indian entertainment, and more with The Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+).

Even though you can access Hotstar in UK and Canada, the service has much less content than in India.

Thus, to watch Disney+ Hotstar most conveniently, I recommend that you follow the instructions in the guide above.

How to Download Disney+ Hotstar on your Devices

If you want to download the Disney+ Hotstar app in the UK on your devices, then here’s how you can do it:

For Android users

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

For iOS Users

  1. Begin by changing your Apple ID region to the United States in Settings > Network.
  2. Open ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
  3. Connect to a server in India.
  4. Search for Hotstar 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 any Indian server.
  3. Now insert your Roku stick into your smart TV through the HDMI port.
  4. Turn on your device and select Hotstar on the Roku home screen, and you are good to go.

For Playstion Users

  1. Set up your console.
  2. Download ExpressVPN.
  3. Log in to connect with the Indian server.
  4. Find "TV/Video Services" on the PS.
  5. Search for Disney+ Hotstar and click on "Get."
  6. Your channels list has a new addition.
  7. You can stream all the big hits now!

For Xbox Users

  1. Set up and open your Xbox.
  2. Download ExpressVPN.
  3. Log in to connect with the Indian server.
  4. Go to My games and apps > Xbox Store.
  5. Do a quick search for Disney+ Hotstar
  6. Download the application.
  7. You are all set to play your favorites.

For Kodi Users

  1. Install a VPN that is compatible with Hotstar. I 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 India after that.
  7. Go to Kodi's home screen by turning on your TV.
  8. Lastly, install the Hotstar add-on on Kodi to start watching.

For Firestick Users

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

For Apple TV Users

  1. Choose a VPN service that allows you to use Smart DNS. I 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 an Indian server by typing in your DNS address and restarting it.
  6. You are done on your Apple TV; download and install the Hotstar app.

For Smart TV Users

  1. Download and install a premium VPN. I highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  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 Hotstar 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 an India-based server.
  3. Go to the Hotstar website, sign up for an account, or log in.
  4. If you're still having trouble watching Hotstar, delete your cookies and cache before logging in.

Best Movies and Shows on Disney+ Hotstar

The list of movies and shows you can watch on Disney+ Hotstar in UK are as follows:

Best Movies on Hotstar

Here is a list of the best movies that you can binge-watch on Hotstar:

  • Bad Education
  • The Art of Racing in the Rain
  • Murder on the Orient Express
  • We Bought a Zoo
  • Gifted
  • Secretariat
  • Kingsman
  • The Shape of Water
  • The Martian
  • Independence Day
  • Black Swan
  • The Last King of Scotland
  • The Fault in Our Stars
  • Avatar
  • Hamilton
  • Mulan
  • Ford v Ferrari
  • Nomadland
  • All Marvel movies
  • All Star Wars films
  • The Favourite
  • Free Guy
  • The Last Duel
  • Glass
  • Ready or Not
  • Hidden Figures
  • Cruella

Best Shows on Hotstar

Here is a list of the best shows that you can binge-watch on Hotstar:

  • Criminal Justice
  • Special Ops
  • Out Of Love
  • Hostages
  • City of Dreams
  • Aarya
  • PariWar
  • Malgudi Days
  • Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors
  • Grahan
  • The Great Indian Murder
  • Human

Channels on Hotstar

Below is the list of channels that you can stream on Hotstar:

  • Hotstar Specials
  • StarPlus, Jalsha, Vijay, Parvah, Bharat, Suvarna, Utsav, Pravah, Suvarna, Utsav
  • Life OK
  • Asianet, Plus
  • Star World
  • HBO Original Programming
  • SHOWTIME
  • Select Picks
  • ABC Studios
  • Fox life
  • Channel V
  • ABP News
  • Star Sports 1, 2
  • Hindi 1
  • Tamil 1
  • Telegu 1
  • Kannada 1
  • Bangla 1
  • Marathi
  • 9XM
  • Star Sports Select 1 (HD), 2 (HD)
  • Star Maa
  • Maa Gold
  • Hotstar Originals
  • Boogle Bollywood

Which Popular Sports Does Hotstar Broadcast?

Following are the popular sports you can watch on Disney+ Hotstar:

  • Cricket (IPL, WorldCup T20, Ashes, plus all the live domestic and international matches)
  • Football (English Premier League, Hero ISL, Bundesliga)
  • Tennis (ATP Cup)
  • Kabaddi (PKL Pro Kabaddi League)
  • Boxing
  • Car Racing (Formula 1)
  • E-Sports

In which country is Hotstar available

Hotstar is available in India, Indonesia, Canada, Malaysia, and the UK.

Last Year, Hotstar was discontinued in the US; however, you can still enjoy LIVE cricket, your favorite Indian entertainment, and more with The Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+).

Thus, to watch Disney+ Hotstar most conveniently, I recommend that you follow the instructions in the guide above.

FAQs on Hotstar in UK

How Can I Watch the T20 World Cup Live in the UK on Hotstar?

According to Star India, the live streaming of the T20 World Cup 2024 will be available on Disney+ Hotstar in UK. Also, Sky Go’s local major platform will cater to fans interested in watching the global T20 event.

Is using a VPN for Hotstar legal in UK?

Yes, if you use a VPN, it is completely legal, and you can use your Hotstar account in the UK by changing your IP address to India.

How can I watch Hotstar in UK for free?

Hotstar India provides consumers with a free trial. Therefore, you can unblock Hotstar in UK by connecting to an Indian VPN server and watching it for free.

Why is Hotstar not available in the UK?

(Disney+ Hostar) is not available anywhere in the world except India. It’s all because of geo-restrictions, as Indian content is not licensed to broadcast outside India.

How many devices can you stream Hotstar on simultaneously?

Hotstar is available on two devices simultaneously with one account.

Can I watch Dance Champions on Hotstar?

Yes, you can watch all Dance Champions episodes on Disney+ Hotstar with the help of a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.

Is Disney+ Hotstar different from Hotstar?

Hotstar is available in the UK, Canada, and India, the Indian version of Hotstar has been rebranded as Disney+ Hostar. It means that Disney+ Hotstar in India has both Disney Plus content and Hotstar content.

Is Frozen 2 on Disney Hotstar?

Yes, you can watch Frozen 2 on Disney+ Hotstar. However, if you want to watch Frozen 2 on Disney+ Hotstar, you need a VPN like ExpressVPN to stream the movie.

Can I watch Hotstar on TV without a subscription?

Yes, you can watch Hotstar on TV without a subscription in three ways:

  1. Run the Hotstar app directly with an Amazon Firestick device on your TV.
  2. Connect your laptop to your TV using an HDMI cable and cast Hotstar to your TV.
  3. Use Google Chromecast to cast/mirror Hotstar from your mobile device to your TV.

What is the difference between Disney Plus Hotstar VIP and Premium?

With Disney+ Hotstar Premium, you can access Hotstar on up to two devices simultaneously.

However, Disney+ Hotstar VIP does not offer the benefits of multiple device connectivity with one account.

How can I watch Hotstar in UK Without a VPN?

You can watch Hotstar in UK without a VPN but remember that Hotstar UK is not the same as Disney+ Hotstar. It is geo-restricted due to licensing regulations, If you want to watch Disney+ Hotstar in UK, you will need a VPN.

How can I get Hotstar on my Smart TV?

The following are the three ways to access Hotstar on Smart TV:

  • Run the Hotstar app directly on your television using an Amazon Firestick device.
  • Using an HDMI connection, connect your laptop to your TV and stream Hotstar to it.
  • Use Google Chromecast to cast/mirror Hotstar to your TV.

Is Hotstar included in Disney Plus?

Disney+ Hotstar India is the Indian version of Hotstar that provides access to both Hotstar and Disney+ content. Meanwhile, Disney+ content is not available on the international version of Hotstar.

Can Hotstar block me if I use a VPN?

It is possible that you will be unable to access Hotstar in UK if you use a VPN. However, this is highly unlikely. VPNs are used worldwide for privacy.

Is Disney+ Hotstar available in the UK?

Disney+ Hotstar is only restricted to India, though you can access the UK version of Hotstar in UK. However, by using a VPN, you can access Disney+ Hotstar in UK.

Is Hotstar able to detect my VPN?

Yes, but if you use a reliable VPN (Like ExpressVPN) with multiple server options, you can easily get around geo-restrictions.

Does Disney+ Hotstar work in the UK?

Disney+ Hotstar doesn’t work in the UK because it’s limited to India. However, you can access it by using a VPN.

Is Disney+ Hotstar the same as Hotstar UK?

No, Disney+ Hotstar and Hotstar UK are both different. Disney+ Hotstar is only available in India. However, by using a VPN, you can access Disney+ Hotstar in UK.

Does Disney Plus Hotstar have a free trial?

If you want a Hotstar free trial, you can simply use your credit card and get a free Hotstar Premium membership trial for one month.

Conclusion

Although Hotstar is a decent streaming service, the Indian version (Disney+ Hotstar) is significantly better, and you can access Hotstar in UK with a VPN.

In addition, you also gain increased protection when browsing the full internet, making it more difficult for hackers to trace you.

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