Best High-Yield Savings Accounts in the UK 2026 - Compare GBP Interest Rates
Looking for the best high-yield savings account in the UK? Whether you're searching for a cash ISA, instant access savings, or simply want to earn interest on uninvested cash, we've compared the top options across banks, fintechs, and investment platforms to help you find the highest GBP interest rates available in 2026.
XTB currently leads the market at 4.00% on GBP balances, followed closely by Webull UK at 3.88% and Lightyear at 3.85%. Our regularly updated table below shows you exactly where to earn the most on your pounds.
Click on any platform in the table to visit directly and for some, you'll even unlock an exclusive welcome bonus.
Latest update: January 2026
Best UK Savings Account Interest Rates
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Provider Bonuses and Promotions
Several platforms on this list offer welcome bonuses when you sign up through our links. Here's a quick overview of the current promotions available for UK users:
XTB
XTB offers the highest interest rate in the UK at 4.00% on GBP balances, making it an excellent choice for parking uninvested cash. The platform is FCA-regulated and offers commission-free stock trading alongside the competitive interest rate. New users can claim a free Rolls-Royce share by making any deposit. Read our XTB review for a complete breakdown of features and fees, or learn more about the XTB UK free share promotion.
Webull UK
Webull UK pays 3.88% on GBP balances and offers a £50 ETF voucher for new users who sign up through our link. The platform has gained popularity for its professional-grade charting tools and competitive rates. Learn more about the Webull UK bonus promotion.
Lightyear
Lightyear offers 3.85% on GBP and up to £100 in free US fractional shares for new users. The platform stands out for its transparent pricing and competitive FX rates for multi-currency investing. Check out our Lightyear review or grab your bonus via the Lightyear UK promo code page.
IG
IG pays 3.75% on uninvested GBP and is currently offering up to £1,000 in free US shares when you invest £300. As one of the longest-established brokers in the UK, IG offers a comprehensive trading platform with access to thousands of markets. See all current IG promotions: up to £1,000 in free US shares, up to £200 in UK stocks, and up to £3,000 transfer cashback.
Trading 212
Trading 212 pays 3.55% on GBP balances and offers free fractional shares worth up to £100 when you sign up with a promo code. The platform is popular for its commission-free trading and user-friendly interface. Learn more in our Trading 212 review or grab your bonus via the Trading 212 promo code page.
Revolut
Revolut offers 3.36% on GBP savings pots. While there's no current sign-up bonus, the platform offers a comprehensive financial ecosystem including banking, crypto, and stock trading all in one app. Read our Revolut review for the full breakdown.
Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers pays 3.11% on GBP balances above £8,000, making it better suited for larger cash holdings. New users can earn up to $1,000 in IBKR stock through their referral program. The platform is ideal for serious investors who need professional-grade tools and global market access. Read our Interactive Brokers review or check the IBKR referral bonus details.
How UK Savings Rates Compare
UK savers currently benefit from some of the highest interest rates in years, thanks to the Bank of England base rate. While high street banks typically offer 1-2%, fintech platforms and investment apps are passing on much more competitive rates.
XTB leads the pack at 4.00%, making it particularly attractive for those comfortable using a trading platform for their cash savings. For those preferring traditional banking apps, Starling offers 3.30% and Monzo provides 2.75%.
What to Consider When Choosing a UK Savings Account
- FSCS Protection: Most UK banks and FCA-regulated platforms protect deposits up to £85,000 under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
- Access restrictions: Some accounts require you to hold investments or have trading activity. Check the terms before depositing.
- Rate changes: Most rates are variable and track the Bank of England base rate. Expect changes when the BoE adjusts rates.
- Tax considerations: Interest earned outside an ISA may be subject to income tax above your Personal Savings Allowance.
GBP Interest Calculator
Use our calculator below to estimate your returns based on the rates shown above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best high-yield savings account in the UK?
As of January 2026, XTB offers the highest rate at 4.00% on GBP balances. Webull UK follows at 3.88%, and Lightyear offers 3.85%. For traditional banking apps, Starling Bank offers 3.30% and Monzo provides 2.75%.
Are high-yield savings accounts safe in the UK?
Most UK savings accounts and FCA-regulated platforms are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 per person, per institution. Always check if your chosen platform is FSCS-protected before depositing.
What is the Bank of England base rate in 2026?
The Bank of England base rate influences savings rates across the UK. Most variable savings accounts track the base rate, so when the BoE changes rates, your savings interest will typically follow. Check the BoE website for the current rate.
Do I pay tax on savings interest in the UK?
UK residents have a Personal Savings Allowance of £1,000 (basic rate taxpayers) or £500 (higher rate taxpayers). Interest earned above this allowance is taxable. Cash ISAs offer tax-free interest regardless of how much you earn.
Looking for Euro savings rates instead? Check out our best high-yield savings accounts in Europe comparison with rates up to 6% EUR.
Also, find out which is the best stock broker in the UK.
Can't decide which platform to go with? Check out our free BrokerMatch tool to get a personalized broker recommendation based on your location, goals, and investing style.
And don't miss out on our bonuses and exclusive perks page, where we've listed our best sign-up offers, discounts, and rewards available across dozens of top platforms.
