YouTube TV: How to Watch Live Sports and Shows in the UK

Thinking about cutting the cable and moving to a streaming service? YouTube TV might be the answer. It offers a clean interface, cloud DVR and a decent line‑up of live channels. Below we break down what you need to know to get started, what sports you can catch, and how to make the most of the service.

Setting Up YouTube TV – Quick and Simple

First, head to the YouTube TV website and click the ‘Try it free’ button. You’ll be asked for an email, a password and a payment method. The free trial lasts for 30 days, giving you plenty of time to test the platform without paying upfront.After you sign up, the dashboard shows all your channels. Adding a channel is as easy as clicking the ‘+’ icon next to its name. If a sport you love isn’t listed, you can search the library – YouTube TV updates its line‑up regularly, especially during major tournaments.

When it comes to devices, YouTube TV works on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast and most gaming consoles. Just download the app, log in, and you’re ready to stream.

What Sports Can You Watch?

For UK fans, the biggest draw is the mix of US and local sports. You’ll find live NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL games, along with college football and basketball. If you’re into soccer, YouTube TV streams Premier League highlights, select La Liga matches and occasional UEFA Champions League games through partner networks.

The built‑in cloud DVR lets you record up to 200 hours of content. That means you can set a reminder for a late‑night match and watch it later, even if the live slot clashes with work.

Keep an eye on special events. During the Olympics, YouTube TV often adds extra channels for free, letting you follow multiple sports at once without extra cost.

While YouTube TV covers a lot, it’s not the only option for streaming sports in the UK. Services like Sky Sports, BT Sport and Amazon Prime Video still hold exclusive rights to some leagues. If you need a specific competition, you might need a secondary subscription.

Pricing is straightforward: a single monthly fee gives you access to the full channel line‑up, no hidden charges. As of 2025, the price sits around £50 per month, which includes the DVR storage and unlimited streams on up to three devices at once.

To get the best experience, make sure your internet connection meets the recommended speed – at least 10 Mbps for HD streaming. A wired Ethernet connection reduces buffering, especially during fast‑moving sports action.

In short, YouTube TV offers a flexible, all‑in‑one solution for live TV and sports fans in the UK. With a user‑friendly app, solid DVR, and a solid sports mix, it’s worth a try during the free trial. If it fits your viewing habits, you’ll likely keep it as a core part of your entertainment setup.