We’ll also include a detailed Hosting comparison table to help you make an informed decision. Each hosting provider on this list caters to a variety of needs, from small blogs to large-scale business websites.
1. Bluehost UK
Overview:
Bluehost is a popular hosting provider known for its reliability and excellent customer support. While it originates in the US, it has a strong presence in the UK, offering localised services and pricing.
Key Features:
- Free domain for the first year with hosting plans.
- 24/7 customer support via chat or phone.
- Free SSL certificate.
- One-click WordPress installation.
Advantages:
- Affordable pricing for beginners.
- Seamless integration with WordPress.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- Higher renewal rates.
- Limited storage on basic plans.
Learn More: Bluehost UK
2. SiteGround
Overview:
SiteGround is renowned for its top-notch performance and robust security features. They offer free domain registration with their hosting plans, making it an ideal choice for UK-based websites.
Key Features:
- Free domain registration for one year.
- Managed WordPress hosting.
- Daily backups and advanced security tools.
Advantages:
- Fast loading speeds.
- Excellent customer support.
- Data centres in Europe for lower latency in the UK.
Disadvantages:
- Limited storage on basic plans.
- Slightly higher starting prices.
Learn More: SiteGround
3. IONOS by 1&1
Overview:
IONOS is a UK-centric hosting service offering competitive pricing and a free domain with most of their plans. It’s particularly attractive to small businesses.
Key Features:
- Free domain for one year.
- Affordable introductory plans.
- Free email accounts with hosting.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective for small businesses.
- Intuitive control panel.
- Scalable plans for growing websites.
Disadvantages:
- Customer support can be slow during peak times.
- Advanced features may require additional costs.
Learn More: IONOS
4. HostGator UK
Overview:
HostGator is a reliable hosting provider offering free domains and a variety of hosting solutions. Its UK-specific services include data centres optimised for local performance.
Key Features:
- Free domain registration.
- Unmetered bandwidth.
- Website builder included.
Advantages:
- Flexible plans for all needs.
- Excellent uptime reliability.
- Easy-to-use interface.
Disadvantages:
- Higher renewal fees.
- Upselling during checkout can be excessive.
Learn More: HostGator UK
5. Fasthosts
Overview:
Fasthosts is a UK-based hosting provider offering competitive packages with a free domain included. It’s a great choice for those who prefer localised services.
Key Features:
- Free domain with annual plans.
- 24/7 UK-based customer support.
- Scalable hosting options.
Advantages:
- Local customer support.
- Wide range of hosting solutions.
- Beginner-friendly interface.
Disadvantages:
- No free SSL certificate on some plans.
- Renewal prices are higher.
Learn More: Fasthosts
6. Krystal Hosting
Overview:
Krystal Hosting is a UK-based provider known for its ethical business practices and excellent performance. They offer a free domain with most hosting plans.
Key Features:
- Free domain name for the first year.
- 100% green energy-powered hosting.
- Free backups included.
Advantages:
- Environmentally friendly hosting.
- UK-based customer support.
- Strong security measures.
Disadvantages:
- Limited data centres compared to competitors.
- Premium pricing for higher-tier plans.
Learn More: Krystal Hosting
7. Tsohost
Overview:
Tsohost is another UK-based hosting provider offering a free domain for the first year with its hosting plans. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized websites.
Key Features:
- Free domain registration.
- WordPress-specific hosting plans.
- UK-based servers.
Advantages:
- Local data centres for improved performance.
- Budget-friendly plans.
- Easy WordPress integration.
Disadvantages:
- Limited customer support availability.
- Fewer advanced features compared to other providers.
Learn More: Tsohost
8. DreamHost
Overview:
DreamHost provides reliable hosting services and includes a free domain with annual plans. Its flexible pricing and features cater to both beginners and professionals.
Key Features:
- Free domain for one year.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- Advanced control panel.
Advantages:
- Affordable plans for all users.
- Excellent uptime.
- Generous storage on all plans.
Disadvantages:
- No UK-based servers.
- Setup process can be complex for beginners.
Learn More: DreamHost
9. 123 Reg
Overview:
123 Reg is a UK-specific hosting provider offering affordable hosting solutions with a free domain included in its plans. It’s a great choice for small businesses.
Key Features:
- Free domain with hosting plans.
- Easy-to-use website builder.
- UK-based customer service.
Advantages:
- Local support and data centres.
- Simple setup process.
- Competitive pricing.
Disadvantages:
- Limited advanced features.
- Renewal rates can be high.
Learn More: 123 Reg
10. Heart Internet
Overview:
Heart Internet is another UK-based provider offering a free domain with most hosting packages. Its plans are suitable for both personal and business websites.
Key Features:
- Free domain registration for the first year.
- Unlimited email accounts.
- UK-based data centres.
Advantages:
- Reliable hosting services.
- Scalable plans for growing websites.
- Strong customer support.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive renewal fees.
- No free SSL certificate on basic plans.
Learn More: Heart Internet
Comparison Table: Top UK Hosting Services Offering Free Domains
| Hosting Provider | Free Domain? | Key Features | Advantages | Disadvantages | Starting Price (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluehost UK | Yes | Free SSL, 1-Click WP Install | Beginner-friendly, Affordable | High renewal rates | £2.95 |
| SiteGround | Yes | Daily Backups, Fast Loading Speeds | Great support, UK data centres | Limited storage | £5.99 |
| IONOS by 1&1 | Yes | Free Email, Intuitive Control Panel | Cost-effective, Scalable | Slow support at peak times | £1.00 |
| HostGator UK | Yes | Unmetered Bandwidth, Free Builder | Reliable, Flexible | High renewal fees | £2.75 |
| Fasthosts | Yes | UK Support, Scalable Plans | Beginner-friendly, Localised | No free SSL on basic plans | £2.50 |
| Krystal Hosting | Yes | Green Hosting, Free Backups | Ethical, Strong security | Limited data centres | £3.99 |
| Tsohost | Yes | WordPress-Specific Hosting | Local servers, Budget-friendly | Limited support hours | £3.49 |
| DreamHost | Yes | Unlimited Bandwidth | Excellent uptime, Generous storage | No UK servers | £2.59 |
| 123 Reg | Yes | Easy Setup, Local Support | Simple process, Affordable | High renewal rates | £1.50 |
| Heart Internet | Yes | Unlimited Emails, Scalable Plans | Reliable, UK servers | Expensive renewals | £2.99 |
Conclusion
Finding the right hosting provider with a free domain can significantly simplify your website setup and reduce costs. Each of the hosting services listed above has unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to a variety of needs. Evaluate your specific requirements, such as performance, scalability, and budget, to make an informed decision.