Choosing the right credit card in 2025 isn’t just about low interest rates anymore—it’s about maximising rewards, building credit, and getting real value every time you tap or spend. Whether you’re after cashback, travel perks, or balance transfer options, this list brings together the top-performing UK credit cards that offer serious benefits this year. Below are the 10 best credit cards in the UK for 2025, based on real user reviews, financial expert insights, and updated offers that stand out in today’s economic climate.
1. American Express® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card
Best for: Travel Rewards & Dining
The Amex Gold continues to be a go-to for those who want to earn while they live their best life—especially if you travel frequently or dine out often.
Key Features:
Welcome Bonus: 25,000 Membership Rewards® points when you spend £3,000 in the first 3 months
Earning Rate: 2 points per £1 spent on flights and restaurants (in the UK and abroad), 1 point elsewhere
Travel Perks: Two free airport lounge passes each year
Annual Fee: Free for the first year, then £195/year
- Why it’s great: If you value travel and lifestyle perks, this card’s rewards scheme is one of the most flexible, allowing you to transfer points to airline and hotel partners.
- Official site: American Express UK
2. Barclaycard Rewards Card
Best for: No Fees Abroad & Cashback
This is one of the rare cards in the UK that rewards everyday spending and doesn’t charge extra when you use it abroad.
Key Features:
Cashback: 0.25% cashback on all your everyday spend
Foreign Transactions: No fees on non-sterling purchases
Representative APR: 27.9% (variable)
Annual Fee: £0
- Why it’s great: A perfect card for holiday-goers or digital nomads who want peace of mind when using their card internationally, while also earning rewards on groceries or coffee at home.
3. HSBC UK Premier World Elite Mastercard
Best for: High-Spending Frequent Flyers
Tailored for HSBC Premier account holders, this card is built for global travellers and business elites who value luxury and efficiency.
Key Features:
Welcome Bonus: Up to 40,000 Avios points (in partnership with British Airways)
Rewards: Earn 1 Avios per £1 spent locally, 2 per £1 abroad
Travel Extras: Unlimited airport lounge access via LoungeKey™, travel insurance
Annual Fee: £195
- Why it’s great: The lounge access and generous Avios earning potential make this card a solid choice for business-class jet-setters.
4. Chase UK Cashback Credit Card
Best for: Everyday Cashback
Chase has disrupted the UK market with its no-nonsense cashback model that suits just about everyone—especially if you want simple, consistent returns on your spending.
Key Features:
Cashback: 1% on all purchases for the first 12 months
App-Only Experience: Full control from your phone
No Annual Fee
Daily Spending Insights: Real-time tracking and budgeting tools
- Why it’s great: It’s one of the few cards that gives straightforward, unlimited cashback without requiring a high credit score or extra fees.
5. Virgin Money Balance Transfer Credit Card
Best for: Paying Down Debt
If you’re looking to manage existing credit card debt with a long interest-free window, Virgin Money offers one of the longest 0% balance transfer deals on the market in 2025.
Key Features:
0% Balance Transfer: Up to 27 months interest-free
Balance Transfer Fee: 2.99% (often with offers as low as 1.45%)
Eligibility Checker: Soft check with no impact on credit score
Representative APR: 24.9% (variable)
- Why it’s great: A fantastic option to consolidate debt, reduce interest, and pay off balances over time without stress.
- Official site: Virgin Money UK
6. Tesco Bank Clubcard Credit Card (Purchases)
Best for: Grocery Shoppers & Tesco Loyalists
Key Features:
Earn Clubcard points: 5 points per £4 spent in Tesco, 1 point per £8 elsewhere
0% interest on purchases for up to 18 months
Points can be redeemed for Tesco vouchers or boosted via Clubcard Rewards partners
No annual fee
- Why it’s great: Perfect for families and budget-conscious shoppers who want to save more on regular spending at Tesco and partner retailers.
- Learn more on Tesco Bank’s official site
7. Capital One Classic Credit Card
Best for: Building or Rebuilding Credit
Key Features:
Credit limit starts low but can increase with responsible use
Helps build or repair your credit score over time
Free access to your credit report & score via Capital One’s CreditWise
APR: 34.9% (variable), no annual fee
- Why it’s great: One of the most accessible cards for people with limited or poor credit history. It’s a stepping stone toward premium cards.
8. Halifax Clarity Credit Card
Best for: International Use & Travel Spending
Key Features:
No foreign transaction fees anywhere in the world
Real exchange rate with no hidden markups
Representative APR: 23.9% (variable)
No annual fee
- Why it’s great: Whether you’re backpacking in Asia or shopping in the EU, this is one of the best travel-friendly credit cards with transparent rates and no surprises.
9. M&S Bank Shopping Plus Credit Card
Best for: Interest-Free Shopping + Loyalty Perks
Key Features:
0% interest on purchases for up to 20 months
Earn M&S Sparks points on all spending
Points can be turned into M&S vouchers
No annual fee
- Why it’s great: A solid long-term 0% purchase offer combined with rewards makes this great for M&S fans and budget planners alike.
10. Zopa Credit Card
Best for: Flexible Limits & App Control
Key Features:
Smart controls via the Zopa app (freeze card, set limits, track spending)
Low APR for eligible customers (starting at 24.9%)
Option to set up payment plans for larger purchases
Fast approval process with soft credit check tool
- Why it’s great: Designed for digital-first users who want control, clarity, and transparency in how they manage their credit.
- Learn more on Zopa’s website
How to Choose the Right Credit Card in 2025
When choosing a credit card this year, consider the following:
Your credit score: Premium reward cards usually require good-to-excellent credit
Spending habits: If you spend heavily on travel, rewards cards will benefit you more than low-interest cards
International use: If you travel often, prioritize cards with no foreign transaction fees
Existing debt: Opt for balance transfer cards with long 0% interest periods
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after cashback, travel points, or a strategic debt repayment plan, the UK credit card market in 2025 offers something for everyone. Each of the options above has a unique advantage, but the right card for you depends on your personal financial goals.
tip: Use eligibility checkers (offered by most card issuers) to see your chances of approval without hurting your credit score.
FAQs – Credit Cards in the UK (2025)
Q: What credit score do I need for a rewards card?
A: Most top rewards cards require a score of 700+ (good to excellent), but some cashback cards like Chase are more flexible.
Q: Is American Express accepted everywhere in the UK?
A: Amex acceptance is improving, especially at large chains, but it’s still not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard—keep a backup.
Q: Are balance transfer cards worth it?
A: Yes, if you pay off the debt during the interest-free period. Otherwise, you’ll face high APRs once the promo ends.
Q: Can I have more than one credit card?
A: Absolutely. Many people carry multiple cards to maximize rewards and flexibility, as long as they manage them responsibly.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
