Lottery in the United Kingdom: all games, results, jackpots & rules

History

The UK National Lottery launched in 1994, with the first Lotto draw on 19 November 1994. Camelot ran it for 30 years; since 1 February 2024 Allwyn has held the fourth licence. Besides Lotto (6 from 59) there are Thunderball, Set For Life and EuroMillions, which the UK has played since the very first draw on 13 February 2004.

Good causes

A fixed share of every stake goes to good causes – sport, the arts, heritage and community projects. The market is regulated by the Gambling Commission.

Minimum age and tax

Since 2021 National Lottery games may only be sold to people aged 18 or over (previously 16). Winnings are tax-free in the UK and paid in pounds sterling, which is why UK EuroMillions prizes differ from the euro amounts.

Which game has the best odds?

Of the UK draw games, Thunderball offers the best chance of its top prize, Lotto the bigger rolling jackpots and Set For Life a monthly payment for 30 years. The comparison above shows price, odds and current expected value for each game. No system changes the odds – every combination is equally likely.