Deep Dive into the Best-Ranked Bookmakers for Special Bets

Special betting goes beyond the traditional sports markets by focusing on public and cultural events, offering options on occurrences ranging from political elections and entertainment awards to reality TV show outcomes and notable societal events. This form of wagering appeals to a broad audience, including those not traditionally interested in the sporting calendar, by tapping into popular culture and current affairs. The influx of online bookmakers has facilitated the rise of this niche gambling area. Online platforms have the flexibility to quickly adjust to current events and public interest, creating a dynamic and responsive environment to place wagers. This adaptability has allowed bookies to offer an ever-expanding range of options, attracting a diverse group of members that perhaps would not have considered this opportunity otherwise. With the ability to update odds in real-time and provide a wide set of markets, online bookmakers have made this area of “specials” a prominent and profitable component of the gambling industry.

Why Opt-in for Special Bets

  • Diverse Opportunities: Special bets provide a refreshing alternative to traditional sports betting, appealing to a broader range of interests. From political elections to reality TV outcomes, these markets tap into latest events and popular culture, allowing bettors to leverage their knowledge outside of sports for potential financial gain.
  • Value Odds: Given their unique nature, specials often come with less predictable outcomes and less public betting data. This uncertainty can lead to more favourable odds for informed bettors, presenting opportunities to capitalise on discrepancies between public perception and actual probabilities.
  • Engagement and Entertainment: Engaging in special bets enhances the excitement of following non-sporting events, turning passive viewing into an interactive experience. Bettors find added enjoyment in events like award shows or election nights, as their wagers provide a personal stake in the outcome, increasing the interactive and entertainment value.

Best-Rated Websites for Special Wagers

£40 Free Bet

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Turnover

1X

Min Odds

1.5
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New Players Only. Min £20 qualifying bets stake not returned. Free bet – one-time stake of £40, min odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wager the winnings. Wager from real balance first. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Max conversion: £200. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply 21LuckyBet Review

£20 Free Bet

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1X

Min Odds

2.0
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New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Mobile exclusive. Min Deposit £10. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Account & Payment method restrictions apply. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. 18+. T&Cs apply. BoyleSports Review

10% Cashback

Place bets on top-flight events and get 10% cashback on all lost bets the next day

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1X

Min Odds

1.01
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18+. Cashback is cash without restrictions. No Max cashout. Play responsibly. Full T&Cs apply. All British Sports Review

£10 Free Bet on Virtuals

Place your first bet of £10 on Betdaq virtuals and if it loses, get a £10 Free Bet

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1X

Min Odds

2.0
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18+ only. Offer applies to customers who have not placed their first bet on Exchange or Sportsbook virtuals before 01/12/2015. Minimum odds of 2.0 or greater applies. Free bet stake not returned on winnings and must be placed at odds of 1.5 or greater. Free bet can only be used on Exchange or Sportsbook virtuals. Free bet valid for 7 days. T&Cs Apply. Betdaq Review

£20 Free Bet

Get £20 in Free Bets when you sign up

Turnover

1X

Min Odds

1.5
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New Players Only. Min £10 qualifying bets stake not returned. Free bet - one-time stake of £10, min odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wager the winnings. Wager from real balance first. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Max conversion: £200. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply. BritainBet Review

£123 Bonus

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50X

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1
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#AD New players only, Min deposit is £10 ,Maximum bonus is £1002, Max bet with bonus is £5, No max cash out, Wagering is 50x - Skrill & Neteller excluded, Eligibility is restricted for suspected abuse, Cashback is cash, so no wagering, Cashback applies to deposit where no bonus is included. Full T&C’s apply FunSports Review

100% Odds Boost

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1X

Min Odds

1.01
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18+. New customers only. Maximum stake £10. 'Double the odds' refers to fractional odds only. Extra winnings are paid in cash upon bet settlement. Customers have 60 days after registration to use the Odds Boost token. Full terms apply. Grosvenor Review

Welcome £60 in Free Bets

Get up to £60 Welcome Bonus in Free Sports Bets

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1X

Min Odds

2.0
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18+. For NEW UK customers only. Requires account opening, deposit using UK debit card, and certain qualifying bets of Evens or greater .£10 free bet requires 5 x £10 settled bets. Full Terms apply. Betzone Review

£10 Free Bet

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Turnover

1X

Min Odds

2
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18+. New Players only. Min Deposit: £10, Max £10 bonus, valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement. System bets not eligible. Full T&Cs apply. Luckster Review

Up to £50 as a Free bet

Bet £10 at odds of 2.00 or greater and receive up to £50 as a Free Bet

Turnover

1X

Min Odds

2.0
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New customers only, aged 21+. Min deposit £10. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of Evens (2.0) or greater. Get 50% back on first day losses (up to 23:59) as a Free bet, up to £50, plus 10 Free Spins on Reel King, credited within 24 hours. Free Bet & Spins expire in 7 days. Additional T&Cs apply. Fitzdares Review

Politics Betting

Placing wagers on political events has emerged as a prominent category within the world of special bets, drawing in a wide audience by allowing individuals to wager on governmental outcomes. This area transcends traditional sports wagering, engaging bettors with an interest in global actions, elections, and legislative movements. Politically inspired markets can include predictions on poll winners, party majorities in specific chambers of government, and even the outcomes of referendums or policy decisions.

The appeal lies in its dynamic nature; the landscapes are constantly shifting, influenced by public opinion, debates, and unforeseen events. This fluidity creates a unique challenge for bettors, who must stay informed about current measures, opinion polls, and the latest trends. Additionally, this type of wagering offers the intrigue of connecting with real-world impacts, providing intellectual stimulation beyond the thrill of potential financial gain. It invites bettors to apply their understanding of political processes and predictions about future developments, making it a thought-provoking and popular choice among special betting options.

US Presidential ElectionBettors analyse candidates' policies, popularity, and campaign strategies to predict the next leader of the United States, a highly anticipated event globally.
Next country to leave the EUSpeculation on political discontent and national referendums fuels bets on which member state might follow the UK's footsteps in exiting the EU.
Next UK Prime MinisterWagers focus on leadership races within major parties, considering political alliances, public approval, and MPs' support to forecast the country's next leader.
London Mayoral ElectionLocal issues, candidate charisma, and party support play key roles in predicting who will next oversee the governance of the UK's capital.
Next UK General ElectionPredicting the party to secure a majority involves analysing political trends, voter sentiment, and the impact of current policies on future elections.

Awards Betting

A niche area of special bets that allows punters to wager on the outcomes of various prestigious award ceremonies across entertainment, literature, and beyond. This category spans the Oscars, Grammys, Booker Prize, and many other accolades, turning cultural milestones into exciting opportunities. The attraction lies in predicting which films, songs, books, or artists will garner recognition, leveraging insights into industry trends, critical acclaim, and public sentiment.

The appeal of this area is multifaceted; it combines the thrill of gambling with a deep appreciation for arts and culture, offering a unique way to engage with and invest in the success of favourite works and creators. Bettors must stay on top of the latest nominations, critique receptions, and even the socio-political climate influencing these decisions. Awards wagering transforms the passive act of consumption into an active, stakes-driven experience, enriching the way audiences connect with cultural phenomena and celebrate excellence in various fields.

OscarsThe pinnacle of film awards, bettors assess movies, directorial vision, and actor performances to predict winners in categories celebrating cinematic achievements.
BAFTAsFocused on both British and international cinema, betting involves predicting standout films and talents recognised by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.
Grammy Awards 2024Music's biggest night, where bettors analyse trends, album sales, and critical acclaim to forecast winners across diverse musical genres and performances.
RazziesWith a humorous twist, this award "honours" the worst in film. Bettors predict which movies and performances will be deemed the year's least commendable.
Sports Personality of the YearA prestigious BBC award, bettors consider athletes' performances, public appeal, and significant achievements to predict who will capture the nation's heart.

Celebrities and Entertainment Betting

Placing wagers on the lives of celebrities and the world of entertainment represents a dynamic segment of the special bets category. In short, it appeals to a broad spectrum of bettors by allowing stakes on events in the glamorous world of celebrities, movies, music, and television. This genre includes predicting award show winners, outcomes of reality TV series, celebrity relationship developments, and even casting choices for high-profile roles. Its popularity stems from the public’s deep interest in entertainment and pop culture, combined with the thrill of speculation and prediction.

Unlike traditional sports betting, which relies heavily on statistical analysis and performance history, placing stakes on this popular topic often requires keeping well-informed of the latest gossip, trends, and insider information. This unique mixture of knowledge and strategy opens up a vast range of opportunities, making it an attractive option featured particularly prominently by newly established betting websites for those looking to diversify their approach beyond sports, all while engaging with their favourite aspects of pop culture.

Box Office SpecialsBettors predict film earnings, focusing on opening weekends and total gross, analysing trends, franchise status, and marketing impact on viewer turnout.
Spotify SpecialsWagering on streaming milestones, such as the most-played song or artist, requires insight into music trends, viral potential, and listener behaviour analytics.
Celebrity Big BrotherBets hinge on contestant popularity and dynamics, analysing public opinion and social alliances to predict the winner of this reality TV staple.
James BondSpeculation centres on casting the next Bond, evaluating actors’ charisma, public appeal, and fit for the iconic role amidst industry rumours.
WrestleManiaPredicting outcomes of high-profile matches involves understanding storyline developments, fan reactions, and performers' career trajectories in professional wrestling.
EurovisionWagering focuses on song quality, performance impact, and country voting patterns, considering both musical merits and geopolitical influences on voting outcomes.
Las Vegas SphereWagers might involve opening dates, initial performers, or event specifics, capitalising on the anticipation surrounding this innovative entertainment venue's impact.

How to Bet on Specials and Make Money

Placing bets on specials offers a unique avenue for leveraging knowledge outside traditional sports, involving events in politics, entertainment, and culture. This how-to section guides those interested through strategically navigating this diverse gambling landscape, optimising their chances for profit by understanding market nuances, researching effectively, and making informed wagers on unconventional outcomes.

  1. Research and Select a Niche: Begin by choosing a specific specials gambling niche, such as awards, politics, or entertainment. Deep dive into past trends, influential factors, and expert predictions to gain a solid understanding of any chosen area.
  2. Choose the Right Bookmaker: Look for the best-ranked sites for betting that offer comprehensive coverage of the selected specials category, competitive odds, and a user-friendly platform. Consider platforms recommended by experts for their reliability and range of wagering options.
  3. Analyse the Odds: Study the value provided for various outcomes within a preferred niche. Understanding how odds reflect perceived probabilities and public sentiment can reveal value bets and underexplored opportunities for profit.
  4. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news, rumours, and developments related to the betting niche. Insider information, social media trends, and expert analysis can significantly impact odds and outcomes.
  5. Manage the Bankroll: Set a budget for future wagering activity and stick to it. Allocate funds wisely across different bets to spread risk and maximise the potential for returns over time, avoiding the temptation to overspend on a single wager.
  6. Place Stakes and Monitor Results: With research and odds analysis complete, place the bets on selected outcomes. Continue monitoring the situation as it evolves and be ready to adjust the current strategy based on new information or market shifts.

Is Betting On Specials Profitable?

Placing bets on specials can indeed be profitable, offering a unique blend of entertainment and financial opportunity. This niche caters to a wide selection of interests, from politics and award shows to entertainment and cultural events, allowing bettors to leverage their specialised knowledge for potential gains. The key to success lies in thorough research, strategic wagers, and staying informed on the latest developments within a chosen niche.

BetReligion continues to be the trusted ally in this venture, providing bettors with comprehensive rankings of UK-available bookmakers, insights, and analysis tailored to the world of special bets. By utilising our expert guidance, bettors can navigate the complexities of this diverse gambling landscape more effectively, identifying value bets and optimising their strategies for higher profitability. Encouraged to explore the growing depth of special betting, we know that punters can turn their passions and expertise into rewarding wagering experiences, all while supported by the quality resources and insights offered by BetReligion.

FAQ

What is specials betting?

It involves wagering on outcomes not related to traditional sports, encompassing politics, entertainment, awards, and other significant cultural events. It offers a diverse gambling landscape where knowledge of current events and pop culture can be advantageous.

Where can I place special bets?

They are placed with online bookmakers that offer a wide range of markets beyond sports. Look for platforms with comprehensive coverage of special events, competitive odds, and strong reputations for reliability and user experience.

Which are the best events for novelty betting?

Some highlights for novelty wagering include major awards ceremonies like the Oscars and Grammys, political elections, reality TV show outcomes, and other high-profile cultural or entertainment events. These occasions attract widespread interest and offer numerous opportunities.

Which is the most profitable special betting strategy?

The best approach involves thorough research and specialisation. Focusing on a specific area, understanding the influencing factors, and identifying undervalued odds can yield large returns. Leveraging expert insights and keeping abreast of the latest developments are key components.

Is it possible to make live bets on entertainment events?

Yes, some bookmakers offer in-play options on many popular shows and occasions, especially for shows that unfold over time, like reality TV competitions. This allows bettors to place wagers as the event progresses, taking advantage of shifting odds and real-time developments.

Are special bet accumulators offered?

Yes, bookies often offer accumulator options, allowing bettors to combine multiple wagers on different events into a single bet. This can considerably increase potential returns, though it also involves higher risk, as all selections must win for the accumulator to pay out.

Do bookmakers provide bonuses for special bets?

Yes, some sites offer tailored betting bonuses specifically for these types of wagers, aiming to attract more bettors to the markets. These can include enhanced odds, free bets, or cashback offers on particular events, adding value and incentive for bettors to interact with these unique opportunities.