Looking for the best credit cards UK has to offer in 2025? It’s a good idea to make sure your spending is actually working for you. With so many reward credit cards and cashback offers out there, it can be a bit much trying to figure out which one is right. This guide will help you sort through the top options to maximise your benefits, whether you’re into travel points or just getting some money back.
Key Takeaways
- The UK credit card market in 2025 has lots of good chances for people who collect points.
- High interest rates on these cards mean they’re only good if you pay off your balance every month.
- The American Express Gold card is often a good start because it has no fee for the first year and flexible points.
- You can get points on almost everything you buy, plus benefits like lounge access and hotel upgrades.
- Always consider a provider’s customer service, not just the rewards, before you sign up.
1. American Express Gold Card
Okay, so let’s talk about the American Express Gold Card. It’s a pretty popular choice, and for good reason. I think it’s a solid option if you’re looking to rack up some rewards on your spending.
One of the main draws is the rewards programme. You earn Membership Rewards points, which I find super flexible. You can transfer them to various airline and hotel partners, or even use them for shopping vouchers. It really depends on what I’m saving up for at the time.
I’ve found that the key to making the most of this card is to really understand where you spend the most money. If you’re a big traveller or dine out a lot, the bonus categories can be really beneficial.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the perks:
- Generous Welcome Bonus: Keep an eye out for sign-up offers. They can give your points balance a serious boost.
- Earning Potential: The card offers accelerated earning on certain categories, like restaurants and supermarkets. I always try to use it for those purchases.
- Travel Benefits: You get some travel insurance and purchase protection, which gives me peace of mind when I’m booking trips or buying expensive items.
Of course, there’s an annual fee to consider. I always weigh the benefits against the fee to make sure it’s worth it for me. For example, if you are interested in smart home innovations, you might want to consider this card.
To be eligible for the Amex Gold card, it’s worth noting that there are some restrictions. You’re usually not eligible for the welcome bonus if you’ve held another personal American Express card in the recent past. However, if you’ve only had a supplementary card or a Business American Express, you should be fine. It’s always best to double-check the terms and conditions before applying. Also, remember that interest rates can be high, with rates like 30.0% APR variable, so it’s best to pay off your balance each month.
2. British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
Okay, so next up is the British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card. I’ve had my eye on this one for a while, mainly because of the potential for earning a Companion Voucher. Who doesn’t love the idea of two people flying for the price of one (well, almost)?
The big draw here is definitely the Avios points you can rack up. It’s a card geared towards frequent flyers, or those who aspire to be!
To get the ball rolling, there’s a sign-up bonus. You can grab 30,000 Avios if you spend £6,000 within the first three months. That’s a decent chunk to get you started. Just make sure you haven’t held this card or the free British Airways American Express Credit Card in the past 24 months to qualify for the bonus.
Earning Avios is pretty straightforward: you get 1.5 Avios for every £1 you spend. But, if you’re booking directly with British Airways or British Airways Holidays, that jumps to 3 Avios per £1. So, it pays to be loyal!
The Companion Voucher is the real game-changer. If you spend £15,000 on the card in a year, you get a voucher that lets you book two Avios redemption flights for the price of one. Or, if you’re flying solo, you can use it for a 50% discount on the Avios needed for a single ticket. The voucher is valid for two years, but remember you still need to cover the taxes and charges on both tickets.
Here’s a quick rundown of the earning rates:
- 1.5 Avios per £1 spent generally
- 3 Avios per £1 spent on British Airways and British Airways Holidays
- Companion Voucher after spending £15,000 annually
3. Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card
Okay, so let’s talk about the Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card. I reckon this one’s a good shout if you’re serious about collecting Virgin Points and making the most of Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club. It comes with a few perks that could really boost your travel game, but it’s worth weighing them up against the annual fee.
The main draw is the sign-up bonus and the higher earning rate compared to the free version of the card. You’ll snag a decent chunk of Virgin Points just for making your first purchase. Plus, you earn points faster on your everyday spending. Here’s a quick rundown:
- 18,000 Virgin Points after your first transaction. Not bad at all!
- 1.5 Virgin Points for every £1 you spend. That’s a solid earning rate.
- 3 Virgin Points for every £1 you spend directly with Virgin Atlantic. Ideal if you’re a frequent flyer with them.
I think it’s important to remember that this card comes with a £160 annual fee. So, you need to make sure you’re actually going to use the benefits and earn enough points to make it worthwhile. Otherwise, you might be better off with a card that doesn’t charge a fee.
One of the coolest things about this card is the reward voucher you get when you spend £10,000 in a year. The value of the voucher depends on your status in the Virgin Flying Club:
- 75,000 Virgin Points if you have no status.
- 150,000 Virgin Points if you have Silver or Gold status.
This voucher can be used for a discount on a companion flight or a one-category upgrade for yourself. Pretty sweet, right?
Just a heads-up, you can’t apply for this card if you’ve had it in the last six months. But if you’ve got other Virgin Money credit cards, or even the free Virgin Atlantic Reward card, you’re good to go.
4. Nectar American Express Card
Okay, so the Nectar American Express Card is one I’ve been eyeing up for a while. I mean, who doesn’t love Nectar points, right? It’s a pretty straightforward card, and I think it’s a solid option if you’re already collecting Nectar points through Sainsbury’s or other partners.
The main draw is that you earn 2 Nectar points for every £1 you spend on the card. This is on top of any points you’d normally get at places like Sainsbury’s. So, it’s like double-dipping on rewards, which is always a win in my book.
Now, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, to get the most out of it, you need to be someone who actually uses Nectar points. If you’re not a regular Sainsbury’s shopper, or you don’t really bother with the Nectar scheme, then this card probably isn’t for you. Also, there’s usually a minimum income requirement to be accepted for the card, so it’s worth checking that out before you apply.
One thing I appreciate about this card is that the points are pretty versatile. You can spend them at Sainsbury’s, Argos, and a bunch of other places. Plus, you can even convert them into Avios points if you’re into collecting air miles. It gives you options, which is always a good thing.
Here’s a quick rundown of why I think it’s worth considering:
- Earn rate: 2 Nectar points per £1 spent.
- Welcome bonus: Keep an eye out for sign-up offers, as they can be pretty generous.
- Redemption: Spend at Sainsbury’s, Argos, or convert to Avios.
- Annual fee: Check if there’s an annual fee after the first year, as this can affect the overall value.
5. Platinum Card From American Express
Okay, so the Platinum Card from American Express. This one’s a big hitter, no doubt about it. It comes with a hefty annual fee, but the perks… well, they can be pretty impressive if you use them right. Let’s get into it.
First off, the sign-up bonus is usually quite generous. You can often snag a load of Membership Rewards points just for hitting a certain spending target in the first few months. And those points? They’re super flexible. You can transfer them to various airline and hotel loyalty programmes, including Avios and Virgin Points. I’ve found this really useful for topping up my accounts when I’m planning a trip.
One of the biggest draws for me is the travel benefits. The card comes with comprehensive travel insurance for you and your family, which is a massive weight off my mind when I’m jetting off somewhere. Plus, you get access to airport lounges through Priority Pass. Honestly, those lounges are a lifesaver when you’ve got a long layover. Free food, drinks, and a comfy place to relax? Yes, please!
Another cool perk is the elite status you get with several hotel chains. Think Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honours, and Radisson Rewards. This can mean free upgrades, breakfast, and other nice little extras that make your stay a bit more special. I’ve definitely made the most of this over the years.
I think the Platinum Card is a great option if you travel a lot and can make use of the benefits. But it’s important to do the maths and make sure the perks outweigh the annual fee for your spending habits. Otherwise, you might be better off with a different card.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the key benefits:
- Generous sign-up bonus (keep an eye out for enhanced offers!)
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Priority Pass airport lounge access
- Elite status with multiple hotel chains
It’s worth checking out the full review to see if it’s the right fit for you. The American Express Platinum card is a premium option, but it could be worth it!
6. Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard
Okay, so the Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard is next on my list. I’ve been eyeing this one for a while, mainly because of the Avios points. It seems like a solid option if you’re into collecting those.
The big draw is the potential to rack up Avios quickly, which can then be used for flights and other travel perks. But, of course, there are a few things to consider before jumping in. For example, you need a minimum personal income of £35,000 to apply for the card.
One of the main things that I find interesting is that you get 25,000 Avios points if you spend £3,000 in three months. The card fee is £20 per month and you can cancel or downgrade at any point.
It’s worth noting that to qualify for the bonus, you can’t have held any other Barclaycard credit card in the previous six months, or either of the Barclaycard Avios credit cards in the previous 24 months. However, you’re fine if you had a supplementary card on someone else’s Barclaycard account, or a British Airways American Express credit card in the last six months.
I’ve put together a quick rundown of what I think are the key points:
- Earning potential: You earn Avios on your spending, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel rewards.
- Sign-up bonus: Keep an eye out for sign-up bonuses, which can give you a significant boost to your Avios balance. The Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard bonus is a good example of this.
- Fees and interest: Be aware of the annual fee and interest rates, as these can eat into your rewards if you’re not careful. The representative APR is 80.1% variable based on an assumed £1,200 credit limit and £20 monthly fee. The interest rate on purchases is 29.9% APR variable.
I think it’s a decent card if you can make the most of the Avios and are happy to pay the monthly fee. Just make sure you do your homework and compare it with other options before making a decision.
7. American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card
Okay, so the American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card is one I’ve had my eye on for a while. It’s often talked about as a great all-rounder, especially if you’re just getting into the world of reward credit cards.
One of the biggest draws for me is the sign-up bonus. You can often snag a decent chunk of Membership Rewards points just for hitting a spending target in the first few months. These points are super flexible, which is a big plus. I like that I can transfer them to various airline and hotel loyalty programmes, giving me options when it comes to travel.
The card also comes with some nice perks, like airport lounge access. I think it’s four free passes a year, which could be really handy for those times I’m stuck at the airport waiting for a delayed flight. Plus, there’s often a perk where you get some credit to spend on Deliveroo, which, let’s be honest, is always a welcome treat.
One thing to keep in mind is that you might not be eligible for the sign-up bonus if you’ve had another personal American Express card recently. But even without the bonus, the card can still be worth it for the other benefits, especially in the first year when it’s fee-free.
I’m seriously considering this card as a way to boost my points balance and enjoy some travel perks. The flexibility of the Membership Rewards programme is a major selling point for me, and the lounge access is just the cherry on top.
8. Hilton Honors Platinum Visa Card
Okay, so the Hilton Honours Platinum Visa Card. I’ve had my eye on this one for a while, mainly because of the perks it offers for Hilton loyalists. It’s definitely one to consider if you find yourself frequently staying at Hilton hotels.
One of the biggest draws for me is the automatic Hilton Gold status you get just for holding the card. That means free breakfast and potential room upgrades at Hilton properties, which can really add up if you travel a lot. Plus, you get an 80% bonus on base points on every Hilton Honours stay. I mean, who doesn’t love free breakfast?
It’s worth noting that there’s a £150 annual fee, so you need to weigh up whether the benefits outweigh the cost for your personal travel habits. If you’re not a regular Hilton guest, it might not be the best choice.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I think are the key benefits:
- Automatic Hilton Honours Gold status.
- Bonus Hilton Honours points after spending a certain amount.
- Potential for room upgrades and free breakfast.
I’ve also been looking at the Platinum Card from American Express which gives you a lot of Hilton points. I think the Hilton Honours Platinum Visa Card is a solid option if you’re already a fan of Hilton and want to boost your rewards and enjoy some extra perks during your stays. Just make sure you do the maths to see if the annual fee is worth it for you!
9. M&S Bank Reward Credit Card
Okay, so let’s talk about the M&S Bank Reward Credit Card. I reckon it’s a solid option if you’re a regular M&S shopper. It’s pretty straightforward, and I like that. You earn points on your spending, which you can then redeem for M&S vouchers. Who doesn’t love a bit of retail therapy, eh?
One of the things I appreciate is the simplicity. It’s not trying to be something it isn’t. It’s a reward card for M&S lovers, plain and simple. Plus, M&S often has some decent offers for cardholders, which is always a bonus. I find it’s a good way to treat myself without feeling too guilty about it. I’ve found that using a gadget buying guide can help me make informed decisions about my purchases, ensuring I get the most value for my rewards.
I think the M&S Bank Reward Credit Card is a good choice if you frequently shop at M&S and want a simple, no-fuss way to earn rewards. It’s not the flashiest card out there, but it does what it says on the tin.
I’ve found that the points add up quicker than I expected, especially when I’m doing my usual grocery shopping or picking up clothes. It’s a nice little perk that makes shopping at M&S even better. The card is especially useful if you take advantage of the double points events that M&S occasionally runs.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I think are the key benefits:
- Earn points on your spending at M&S and elsewhere.
- Redeem points for M&S vouchers.
- Access to exclusive M&S offers.
- Relatively straightforward rewards system.
Please remember to check the latest terms and conditions, as offers and rates can change.
10. IHG Rewards Club Premium Mastercard
Okay, so the IHG Rewards Club Premium Mastercard is one I’ve been eyeing for a while. If you’re someone who spends a fair bit of time in hotels, especially IHG properties, this could be a really good option. Let’s get into the details.
With this card, you can really rack up the points on your spending, which can then be used for free nights and other perks within the IHG rewards programme. It’s all about maximising those travel benefits, right?
I think the best part is the potential for free night stays. If you play your cards right, you could be enjoying some pretty luxurious accommodations without breaking the bank.
Here’s what I’ve found particularly interesting:
- Generous Points: You earn a good number of points for every pound you spend, especially on IHG stays.
- Anniversary Bonus: You get a free night each year just for holding the card. That’s a nice little perk.
- Elite Status: The card often comes with automatic IHG elite status, which gets you extra benefits like room upgrades and late checkouts.
I’m seriously considering adding this one to my wallet for 2025!
Fancy earning some sweet rewards? The IHG Rewards Club Premium Mastercard could be just what you need. It’s a top pick for anyone who loves to travel and wants to get more from their spending. Head over to our website to find out all the details and see if this card is right for you!
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it! The UK reward credit card scene in 2025 is still pretty good for anyone wanting to get more from their spending. Just remember, these cards are best if you pay off your balance every month. Otherwise, the interest can really eat into any rewards you earn. For most folks just starting out, the American Express Gold card is a solid choice because you don’t pay a fee for the first year, and the points are really flexible. Once you get the hang of it, you can always look at other cards that fit your specific goals. What’s your plan for earning points? Are you sticking to one programme or mixing it up? I’d love to hear what you’re doing!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do reward credit cards actually work?
Reward credit cards give you points, miles, or cashback when you spend money using them. These rewards can then be used for things like flights, hotel stays, or discounts on your shopping. It’s a way to get something extra back from your everyday spending.
Which reward credit card is the best for me?
The best card for you depends on what you want to get. If you travel a lot, a card that gives you airline miles or hotel points might be great. If you prefer saving money on your shopping, a cashback card could be better. Think about what rewards fit your lifestyle.
Do I have to pay a fee for reward credit cards?
Yes, most reward cards come with an annual fee, which is a yearly charge for having the card. However, some cards offer a free first year, and the rewards you earn can often be worth more than the fee if you use the card smartly.
Is it important to pay off my balance each month?
It’s super important to pay off your balance in full every single month. If you don’t, the interest you pay on your spending will likely be much higher than the value of any rewards you earn, making the card not worth it.
What other benefits do these cards offer?
Many reward cards offer extra points or bonuses when you first sign up and spend a certain amount. They might also give you perks like free airport lounge access, travel insurance, or vouchers for future purchases after you hit certain spending goals.
Can these cards help my credit score?
Yes, using credit cards responsibly can help build a good credit score. This means making sure you pay your bills on time and keeping your credit use low. A good credit score can make it easier to borrow money in the future for things like a house or car.