What is Best Odds Guaranteed and which bookmakers offer it?

Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) is a promotion where the bookmaker automatically pays you at the Starting Price if it turns out to be higher than the early price you took when placing your bet. Bet365, William Hill, Betfred, Coral, and Ladbrokes all offer BOG on UK and Irish horse racing.

Are horse racing betting sites in the UK safe to use?

Yes, provided you use bookmakers that are licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). All legitimate UK-facing horse racing betting sites must hold a UKGC licence.

Can I use credit cards to bet on horse racing in the UK?

No. Since April 2020, the UK Gambling Commission has banned the use of credit cards for gambling transactions.

Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

At Cawood Craft Festival, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Horse racing betting should be enjoyed as entertainment only. It is never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including horse racing betting. We are committed to verifying the age of all users and strictly prohibit gambling by minors.

If you are under 18, or you know someone who is gambling illegally, please contact the relevant authorities or support services immediately.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
Hiding gambling activities from family or friends
Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
Neglecting work, studies, relationships, or hobbies due to gambling
Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control gambling
Using gambling to escape problems or regulate emotions

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools Available

Most reputable betting operators offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:

Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a specific timeframe
Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to limit continuous gambling
Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from betting sites for a set period or indefinitely
Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed

Contact the betting operator's customer support to activate any of these tools.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide confidential support and advice:

United Kingdom

GamCare – Free confidential support, counselling, and information for problem gamblers and their families
www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133 (Free, 24/7)
GamStop – The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling operators in Great Britain
www.gamstop.co.uk
Allows you to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling operators simultaneously
Gamblers Anonymous – 12-step support meetings and peer support
Phone: 0207 384 3060

Other Countries

Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org (1-800-GAMBLER)
Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – www.bzga.de

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but help is available. If you're struggling with gambling or concerned about someone else's gambling habits, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. These services are confidential, free, and available 24/7.

Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your wellbeing is important to us.