Top 10 Most Popular Gift Cards in UK | Best Gift Vouchers

In today’s fast-paced and convenience-driven world, gift cards have become one of the most reliable and appreciated gifting solutions. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, festive season or corporate reward, gift vouchers offer unmatched flexibility.

In the UK, they have soared in popularity thanks to their ease of use, availability, and variety. From fashion and food to tech and homeware, the top gift cards cater to every interest and age group.

This article explores why these gift cards are in high demand, how they work, and lists the ten most popular options you can rely on for gifting.

Why Are Gift Cards Becoming More Popular in the UK?

Gift cards are quickly replacing traditional presents in the UK, driven by consumer demand for choice and convenience. They allow recipients the freedom to choose what they truly want, reducing the risk of gift-giving errors.

With the rise of digital wallets and online shopping, e-gift cards have also gained massive traction.

Other reasons include:

• Gift cards are easier to store, send and use
• They are budget-friendly for the giver
• There is a wide variety of brands and categories
• Many cards now come with customisation options for special occasions

With the UK market embracing digital payments and flexible shopping habits, gift cards are now a trusted go-to for modern gifting.

How Do Gift Cards Work in the UK Market?

In the UK, gift cards operate like prepaid debit cards issued by a brand or a collective retailer network. When a gift card is purchased, a set amount of money is preloaded onto it.

The recipient can then use this balance to shop for goods or services, either online or in physical stores, depending on the type of card.

There are two main formats:

• Physical Gift Cards – Tangible cards similar to credit cards, often packaged for gifting
• Digital Gift Cards – E-codes or digital formats sent via email or SMS, ideal for instant delivery

Some cards allow multiple transactions until the balance runs out, while others may be used in a single transaction. Most cards have a validity window ranging from 12 to 24 months. It’s important for users to check the terms to avoid expiry or limitations.

What Makes a Gift Card a Good Gift Choice?

The popularity of gift cards lies in their practical advantages. Unlike physical items that may not suit the recipient’s taste, gift cards put the power of choice in their hands. They are ideal for all kinds of occasions and allow personalised gifting in a quick and effective way.

Here’s a comparison of what makes a great gift card:

By choosing the right brand or type, you can offer an enjoyable and flexible experience to your loved ones.

Where Can You Buy Gift Cards in the UK?

Purchasing gift cards in the UK has never been easier, with several options available both online and offline. The wide availability ensures that you can find the perfect one without much hassle.

You can buy gift cards from:

• Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda
• Online marketplaces and digital platforms
• Brand websites directly (e.g., Amazon or ASOS)
• High-street retailers with in-store gift card kiosks
• Dedicated gift card websites with multiple options

For added convenience, most online platforms also allow custom messages and email delivery. Some even offer scheduling for special occasions, which is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or corporate gifting.

Whether you need something last-minute or planned, there are plenty of secure, easy ways to buy them.

Are Multi-Retailer Gift Cards Better Than Store-Specific Ones?

When it comes to gifting flexibility, multi-retailer gift cards often have the upper hand. These cards offer recipients the freedom to shop at a wide selection of brands, making them suitable when you’re unsure of their preferences. They’re especially valuable for occasions where versatility is key, like employee incentives or generic celebrations.

However, store-specific cards carry their own appeal. They show that the giver put thought into the recipient’s personal tastes, whether that’s fashion, food, fitness, or tech.

Brand-specific cards also tend to offer promotions, loyalty benefits, or exclusive access to certain products.

Ultimately, it depends on the intent, if flexibility is the goal, multi-retail wins. If you want to make it personal, go for a single-brand voucher.

What are the Top 10 Most Popular Gift Cards in UK?

1. Love2shop Gift Card

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The Love2shop Gift Card is a flexible multi-retailer voucher that gives recipients the freedom to shop across dozens of high-street and online brands. It’s one of the most popular choices for both personal and corporate gifting in the UK due to its broad usability and easy redemption process.

This card comes in physical, digital, and contactless formats, making it suitable for any gifting occasion. Whether you’re sending a thank-you, rewarding a team member, or treating a loved one, Love2shop offers convenience and value.

Users can choose to spend the card directly in-store or swap the balance online for e-gift cards from premium brands. It also includes travel and experience options through Love2shop Holidays.

• Key benefits: Flexible spending, easy gifting, wide brand selection
• Where to use: Over 80 UK retailers in-store and 40+ brands online
• How much to spend: Loadable value varies depending on purchase method
• Format options: Physical cards, e-gift cards, contactless digital delivery
• Digital delivery: Instantly sent via email, text, or messaging apps
• Online redemption: Swap for e-gift cards like Amazon and ASOS
• Special uses: Can be used for travel bookings via Love2shop Holidays
• Important note: Must exchange for an Amazon e-code—cannot be used directly on Amazon

2. Amazon Gift Card

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The Amazon Gift Card is one of the most popular and practical options for gifting in the UK. Known for its vast product selection and convenience, it offers recipients the freedom to buy almost anything they need or want across millions of items.

Available in both digital and physical formats, it’s suitable for all occasions, whether you’re shopping last-minute or planning ahead. The card can be emailed instantly or sent by post in custom packaging.

Once redeemed, the card balance is added to the user’s Amazon account and automatically applied during checkout, no need to re-enter codes.

• Key benefits: Universal use, fast delivery, broad product access
• Where to use: Amazon UK website and mobile app
• How much to spend: Loadable from £1 up to £1,000
• Format options: Digital e-gift, physical cards, custom packaging
• Digital delivery: Instant via email or text
• Account balance: Remaining funds stay in the account for future orders
• Validity: Typically valid for 10 years from purchase
• Important note: Cannot be used for purchases from third-party gift card sellers on Amazon

3. John Lewis Gift Card

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The John Lewis Gift Card is a refined choice, ideal for anyone who enjoys shopping for quality fashion, homeware, tech, and beauty products. It’s redeemable at both John Lewis and Waitrose stores, as well as online.

A major benefit is the card’s long validity period, 24 months from the last use, and each balance check or transaction refreshes the expiry. This ensures the recipient has plenty of time to use it fully.

Whether you’re gifting someone starting a new home, celebrating a milestone, or simply treating a loved one, this gift card adds a touch of elegance.

• Key benefits: Premium retailer, broad product range, generous expiry
• Where to use: In-store at John Lewis & Waitrose or online at johnlewis.com
• How much to spend: Usually available from £10 to £500
• Format options: Physical cards and e-gift cards
• Validity: 24 months from last transaction or balance check
• Phone orders: Usable for telephone purchases via customer service
• Returns: Refunds issued as a new e-gift card
• Important note: Not valid in third-party cafés or restaurants in-store

4. M&S Gift Card

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The M&S Gift Card is a British classic, offering the perfect mix of everyday usefulness and luxury. It can be used to buy clothing, food, homeware, and beauty products in-store and online across the UK, Channel Islands, and Ireland.

Gift cards are available in both digital and physical formats, with values ranging from £5 to £500. They are valid for 48 months from the last use, giving recipients plenty of time to enjoy their balance.

Whether you’re gifting for birthdays, holidays, or thank-yous, the M&S card is practical and always appreciated.

• Key benefits: Versatile for food, fashion, and home shopping
• Where to use: M&S stores and marksandspencer.com
• How much to spend: Available from £5 up to £500
• Format options: Physical card and e-gift card
• Validity: 48 months from last use or balance enquiry
• Balance check: Online or by phone
• Exceptions: Not valid for M&S Bank services or credit payments
• Important note: Cannot be returned, exchanged for cash, or used to buy other gift cards

5. ASOS Gift Card

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ASOS Gift Cards are perfect for those who love fashion, offering access to over 850 brands online. Whether it’s clothes, shoes, accessories, or skincare, recipients can use the card directly on the ASOS website or app.

Gift cards are valid for 24 months from the purchase date, and the credit can be used over multiple orders. Any unused balance remains in the account until it’s fully spent.

It’s ideal for birthdays, student gifts, or wardrobe refreshes, especially for younger shoppers and trend-followers.

• Key benefits: Fashion-focused, flexible spend, easy checkout
• Where to use: ASOS.com and ASOS app (UK region only)
• How much to spend: Usually £5 to £250
• Format options: E-gift or physical card
• Validity: 24 months from date of issue
• Redemption: Add card at checkout using the 16-digit code and 4-digit PIN
• Partial use: Balance remains for future orders
• Important note: Not valid on ASOS Marketplace or for buying other gift cards

6. JD Sports Gift Card

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The JD Sports Gift Card is a popular choice for gifting to trendsetters, gym-goers, and sneaker lovers alike. It provides access to some of the most iconic sports and lifestyle brands, including Nike, Adidas, Puma, and The North Face. Whether you’re gifting a teenager, a fashion-forward friend, or a fitness enthusiast, this card covers it all.

Available in both e-gift and physical formats, the JD card can be personalised and delivered via SMS, email, or post. Recipients can redeem it in-store or online for footwear, activewear, and accessories of their choice.

With a sleek look and a flexible price range, this card allows recipients to shop confidently for what suits them best, in their own size, style, and time.

• Key benefits: Stylish, brand-rich, and ideal for youth and sports lovers
• Where to use: JD Sports stores across the UK or at jdsports.co.uk
• How much to spend: Between £5 and £300
• Format options: Physical card or digital eGift card
• Delivery: Email, SMS, or post, with custom designs available
• Redemption: Redeemable at checkout or by scanning the barcode in-store
• Validity: 12 months from the date of purchase
• Important note: Online activation may take up to 12 hours for eGift cards

7. Just Eat Gift Card

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The Just Eat Gift Card is the ultimate treat for foodies, students, and busy households. It offers the convenience of ordering from thousands of restaurants and takeaways across the UK, including your favourite local spots and national chains. Whether it’s pizza on a Friday night or a lazy Sunday brunch, Just Eat has it covered.

These cards are available as digital or physical options, and once redeemed, the credit is stored in the user’s account for future use. Orders can be placed online or via the app, with the gift card credit automatically applied at checkout.

It’s a quick, thoughtful gift for any occasion, and perfect when you want to give someone a night off cooking.

• Key benefits: Easy to use, fast delivery, access to 30,000+ eateries
• Where to use: On the Just Eat UK website and mobile app
• How much to spend: Custom amounts, usually from £10 and up
• Format options: Digital (email) and physical cards available
• Redemption: Enter the code under “Redeem a gift card” in your Just Eat account
• Validity: 12 months from the date of purchase
• Balance use: Stored in the account as credit for full or partial orders
• Important note: Must be logged in, cannot redeem via guest checkout

8. Deliveroo Gift Card

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The Deliveroo Gift Card offers a modern way to enjoy meals and groceries from your favourite local and national outlets. With just a few taps, the recipient can order dinner, essentials, or even snacks from the Deliveroo app or website.

It’s an ideal option for busy professionals, students, or anyone who enjoys convenience and good food.

Deliveroo gift cards are only available digitally and are emailed directly to the recipient. Once redeemed, the value is stored in the user’s Deliveroo wallet and can be used over multiple orders until the balance runs out.

It’s a reliable and thoughtful gift, especially when you don’t know what to buy but want to give something they’ll actually use.

• Key benefits: Great for food delivery, flexible ordering, app-friendly
• Where to use: Deliveroo app and website (UK only)
• How much to spend: Usually £10 to £500 per card
• Format options: Digital only, sent via email
• Redemption: Enter the code in your Deliveroo account or at checkout
• Validity: 12 months from the purchase date (unless stated otherwise)
• Usage: Balance can be spent over multiple orders
• Important note: Once redeemed, the value cannot be refunded or transferred

9. Restaurant Choice Gift Card

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The Restaurant Choice Gift Card is perfect for gifting a memorable night out. With access to a wide range of UK restaurants and dining chains, this card allows recipients to enjoy meals from popular names like PizzaExpress, Nando’s, Zizzi, and Ask Italian.

Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a family outing, or catching up with friends, this card makes it easy. It works like a prepaid debit card, just present it when paying the bill.

The balance is valid for 24 months and can be used across multiple visits if needed. It can be loaded with values from £5 to £150.

For food lovers who enjoy the atmosphere of dining out, this card is always a winner.

• Key benefits: Dine out with freedom, wide restaurant selection
• Where to use: At Nando’s, Zizzi, Pizza Hut, The Real Greek, and others
• How much to spend: £5 to £150 per card
• Format options: Physical and digital gift cards available
• Redemption: Swipe the card at the point of sale like a debit card
• Validity: 24 months from last use or fund top-up
• Balance use: Can be split across multiple visits
• Important note: Not replaceable if lost or stolen, treat like cash

10. Tesco Gift Card

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The Tesco Gift Card is a practical and thoughtful option that works well for families, students, and anyone who shops regularly. It can be used for groceries, clothing, electronics, and home goods at any Tesco store in the UK (excluding petrol stations).

These cards are valid for five years from purchase or last use, and balances can be checked online, by phone, or in-store.

Tesco gift cards are available in both digital and physical versions, making them suitable for any occasion. It’s a reliable option when you want to offer real value without overthinking the gift.

• Key benefits: Household shopping, long validity, accessible nationwide
• Where to use: Tesco stores in the UK (excluding petrol stations)
• How much to spend: Loadable from £1 to £150
• Format options: Digital (email delivery) and physical card
• Redemption: Present at in-store checkout to apply the balance
• Validity: 5 years from purchase or last usage
• Balance check: Available via TescoGiftCards.com, phone, or till receipt
• Important note: Cannot be used online or to purchase other gift cards

Comparison Table of the Top 10 Gift Cards in the UK

Conclusion

Gift cards have firmly established themselves as one of the most convenient and appreciated forms of gifting in the UK. Their popularity continues to grow as both givers and recipients recognise the value of flexibility, personal choice, and the ease of purchase.

Whether it’s for a fashion lover, foodie, tech enthusiast, or someone hard to shop for, there’s a gift card to suit every preference and occasion.

From single-brand favourites like Amazon and M&S to versatile options like Love2shop and All-in-1 Choice, the choices are diverse and tailored to modern lifestyles.

As digital commerce and e-gifting continue to evolve, the gift card remains a simple yet powerful gesture, one that empowers the recipient while saving the giver time and guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most versatile gift cards in the UK?

Cards like Love2shop and the All-in-1 Choice Gift Card are among the most versatile, offering redemption across dozens or even hundreds of retailers in various sectors.

Can UK gift cards be used internationally?

Most UK-issued gift cards are region-locked and cannot be used abroad. However, some digital gift cards from global brands like Amazon may offer cross-region compatibility, depending on the brand’s policies.

How long are gift cards valid in the UK?

Most gift cards in the UK are valid for at least 12 months, with many extending up to 24 months. Some may not expire at all, but it’s best to check the terms and conditions on the card or retailer’s website.

Are digital gift cards better than physical ones?

Digital gift cards offer immediate delivery and convenience, making them ideal for last-minute gifts. However, physical cards can offer a more tangible and personal gifting experience.

What should I do if I lose a gift card?

If the card was registered or linked to an account, you may be able to retrieve it. Contacting the retailer with proof of purchase is the best course of action.

Can I return or refund a gift card in the UK?

Generally, gift cards are non-refundable. However, if a card is faulty or hasn’t been activated properly, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund under UK consumer laws.

Is it safe to buy gift cards online in the UK?

Yes, as long as you purchase from reputable retailers or official brand websites. Be cautious of discounted gift cards on third-party sites, which can sometimes be fraudulent.