New gambling laws in the UK have now paved the way for self‑service betting terminals (SSBTs) for sports betting in land-based gambling venues.
If you are an online gambler in the UK who also likes to dabble in sports betting, a new law changed in the UK now means you can place sports bets in land-based casinos using self‑service betting terminals (SSBTs).
Previously, the only way to place bets on sports markets was via your mobile device; however, sometimes when you are visiting a brick and mortar land-based venue, it just feels more authentic to place a bet while inside the venue.
Countries like Italy have had SSBTs in casinos for years, often placed near sports bar areas to encourage longer dwell times.
Operators report that these machines increase both betting turnover and food-and-drink sales, something UK venues will be hoping to replicate.
Are SSBTs Worthwhile From a Player or Bettor Standpoint?
Personally, I prefer the US-style sports betting system, where a person at the casino counter helps me fill out a bet slip. When I tried SSBTs in Las Vegas, the process was fast and simple, touchscreen odds, instant bet slips, and no queue.
If the UK rollout mirrors that efficiency, it’s going to be a game-changer for those who love both live casino play and sports betting. SSBTs are still a fun and interactive way to place bets at a physical gaming machine, making them the latest addition to the overall land-based gaming experience.
The change in law, thanks to the UK’s ambitious move to modernise land-based gambling, helps physical venues compete further with online platforms, especially those that offer both casino gaming and sports betting on their apps.
One of the first big brand names in online and land-based gambling to announce its intention to begin rolling out SSBTs in British gambling venues is the Rand Group. Its first set of machines is expected in September 2025 at its Grosvenor Casino establishments.
While SSBTs add convenience, they also operate within the UK’s strict gambling compliance framework. Age verification remains mandatory, and all machines will include safer gambling reminders in line with UKGC requirements
What This Means for UK Gamblers
Soon, you will be able to place bets on a betting terminal in land‑based casinos instead of via a mobile app, which is effectively being touted as in‑venue sports betting. The idea is to make the overall casino experience more diversified, blending traditional table games and slots with in‑house sportsbook options.
According to a Reuters news report in May 2024, when he rules were being reviews, Minister Stuart Andrew said new rules would be put in place to modernise the UK gambling industry and remove the “outdated and overly restrictive regulations” – UK to liberalise rules for gambling venues.
The Rules for Venues Installing SSBTs
Not every gambling venue will be able to install SSBTs, but most will, as the requirements do not eliminate the opportunity even for smaller venues. The gambling area of any establishment looking to use SSBTs must be 280 square meters or more, which most gambling clubs have, a far larger space. As long as this square footage requirement is reached, the casino can install up to 80 gaming machines. Also, the number of gaming machines cannot exceed a five-to-one ratio versus table games like baccarat, roulette, poker and blackjack.
Casinoplusbonus Opinion
The introduction of self-service betting terminals into UK land-based casinos marks one of the most significant updates to the country’s gambling laws in years. By removing outdated restrictions and giving operators the ability to offer in-venue sports betting, the UK is aligning its casino experience more closely with markets like the US and parts of Europe.
From our perspective, this is a welcome step forward for land-based gaming in the UK. Not only does it give casino visitors more ways to enjoy their time on the floor, but it also helps physical venues compete with the convenience of online betting apps. While nothing beats the buzz of a live table, having the option to place a football accumulator or a quick horse racing wager without leaving the casino floor adds a new layer to the player experience. The key will be ensuring SSBTs are integrated responsibly, with the same commitment to player protection that the UK’s online operators are bound to follow.
At CasinoPlusBonus, we believe this blend of tradition and innovation could spark a revival in UK land-based gaming, provided operators balance the excitement of instant sports betting with safeguards that keep the experience safe, fair, and enjoyable for all.
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