Quick Answer
The honest UK verdict first
The UK is unusual: it has a genuinely free Amex that earns Membership Rewards, which makes the £650 Platinum a much harder sell than people admit. So before the prestige wins: if you won’t use lounges and the Platinum’s credits, the free Rewards card or the £195 Gold will leave you better off. Here’s the full UK lineup, honestly ranked.
The UK Amex lineup compared
| Card | Annual fee (UK) | Rewards | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum | £650 | Membership Rewards | Frequent flyers (lounges, status) |
| Preferred Rewards Gold | £195 (1st yr free) | Membership Rewards | Everyday & dining spend |
| Amex Rewards Credit Card | £0 | Membership Rewards | Free entry into Membership Rewards |
Fees change — confirm current terms on the application page.
Platinum — for frequent flyers
The American Express Global Lounge Collection, Hilton and Marriott Gold status, and annual travel and statement credits. At £650/year it only makes sense if you’ll use the lounges and credits. See the Amex Platinum review .
Preferred Rewards Gold — the value sweet spot
£195/year and free the first year. Strong Membership Rewards on everyday and dining spend, a generous welcome bonus and travel perks — but no lounge access. The smarter buy for most. See the Amex Gold review .
Amex Rewards Credit Card — the free one
The UK’s standout: a genuinely free Amex that still earns flexible Membership Rewards. No lounges or hotel status, but no fee either — the ideal risk-free entry, or a keeper alongside a paid card.
The one-question test
Count last year’s airport visits. Double digits → Platinum. A handful, with everyday/dining spend → Gold (free first year). You want Membership Rewards for free → the Rewards Credit Card. Torn between the top two? Amex Platinum vs Gold .
Don’t forget the acceptance gap
Amex acceptance in the UK has improved but still trails Visa/Mastercard at smaller shops. Pair any Amex with a free Revolut card for fee-free spending where Amex isn’t taken — see Amex vs Revolut . For the full lineup across every market, browse our credit cards guide .
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Amex card is best in the UK?
The Platinum (£650/year) for frequent flyers who use lounges and hotel status, the Preferred Rewards Gold (£195/year, first year free) for everyday Membership Rewards, and the free Amex Rewards Credit Card if you don’t want a fee. The UK also has strong co-brands (British Airways, Nectar) worth a look.
Is there a free American Express card in the UK?
Yes — the American Express Rewards Credit Card has no annual fee and earns Membership Rewards points. It’s the genuine free entry into the Amex ecosystem in the UK, without the Platinum or Gold’s perks.
How much does the Amex Platinum cost in the UK?
£650 a year. The Preferred Rewards Gold is £195/year and is free the first year. Confirm current figures and welcome bonuses on the application page, as Amex UK runs frequent promotions.
Verdict
In the UK: frequent flyer → Platinum; everyday spender → Gold (free first year); want free Membership Rewards → the Rewards Credit Card. Compare the current offers below.