With the rise of online platforms and mobile apps, many wonder if purchasing lottery tickets in shops is still possible. As options for buying tickets evolve, it’s natural to ask how the traditional experience fits into today’s lottery landscape.
In this article, we’ll explore the current ways to buy lottery tickets and what players should know about the differences between in-store and online options. Read on to learn more.
Do Shops Still Sell Lottery Tickets?
The simple answer is yes—many shops across the UK, including newsagents, supermarkets, and convenience stores, still sell lottery tickets. These retailers are approved by The National Lottery and follow set rules to sell tickets in person.
If you’re buying from a shop, you may speak to a staff member or sometimes use a self-service machine. You must be at least 18 to make a purchase, whether it’s a ticket, scratch card, or any other lottery product.
Not all shops sell lottery tickets, so keep an eye out for The National Lottery logo or simply ask at the counter. Remember, each shop will have its own opening hours and ticket cut-off times, which can be helpful to check ahead of time.
Why People Still Buy Lottery Tickets In-Person
Many players continue to buy their lottery tickets in person for a number of practical reasons. They might prefer to pick one out if they’re visiting the local shop, especially if they're already out running errands.
Some prefer having a physical ticket they can keep and check later rather than relying on digital records. Others find it more straightforward to ask questions at the counter if they’re unsure about how something works.
For those who prefer using cash instead of cards or online payments, buying in person can also be the simplest way to take part. Having a printed ticket handed over on the spot means everything is sorted there and then.
How In-Store Lottery Purchase Differs To Online
Buying a lottery ticket in person is a simple process. Players either speak to a member of staff or use a self-service machine, choose their numbers—or opt for a Lucky Dip—and pay using cash or card, depending on what the shop accepts. A printed ticket is then handed over, which players keep as proof of entry.
Online purchases work a little differently. Players need to create an account, confirm their age, and buy tickets through a website or mobile app. Payment is made using a debit card or e-wallet, and instead of receiving a paper ticket, entries are stored digitally in the account.
The way prizes are claimed also varies. Smaller prizes from in-store winning tickets can usually be collected at the shop, while online wins are paid directly into the winner’s account. For larger prizes, extra steps may be needed regardless of how the ticket was bought.
Both methods include features that encourage responsible play. Online platforms tend to offer more built-in tools, such as deposit limits and account activity summaries. In-store, staff are there to provide assistance and help promote safe participation at the counter.
Tips For Picking Your Numbers At Retailers
If you’re interested in playing the lottery, choosing your numbers when buying a lottery ticket in a shop is a simple process. Most retailers have play slips and pencils available near the counter. You just need to mark your selected numbers on the slip and hand it to the cashier.
For those unsure which numbers to pick, the Lucky Dip option is available—this lets the system choose a random set of numbers on your behalf. Shop staff can explain how it works or answer any questions if something’s unclear.
It’s worth taking a quick moment to double-check the play slip before handing it over, just to make sure everything is filled in as intended.
As always, it’s a good idea to stay mindful of your spending and keep track of how often you’re participating.
How Early You Can Buy a Lottery Ticket?
Players can usually buy lottery tickets from an authorised retailer as soon as the shop opens for the day. Since opening hours vary between locations, the exact time ticket sales begin can differ from one place to another.
Tickets are generally available from the morning right up until the cut-off time on draw days. For games like Lotto or EuroMillions, sales pause at a set time in the evening to allow preparations for the draw.
It’s a good idea for players to check the opening hours of their local shop, as well as any notices about ticket availability or draw deadlines. Shop staff can also provide up-to-date information and let players know the latest time to buy a ticket for a particular draw.
Cut-Off Time For Tickets In Shops
On draw days, players should be aware that there’s a set cut-off time for buying lottery tickets in shops—usually around 7:30pm for most National Lottery draws. This allows all entries to be processed ahead of the draw taking place.
Ticket machines automatically stop accepting entries once the cut-off time is reached, so it’s worth planning ahead to avoid missing out. Occasionally, the deadline may vary slightly—for example, during special draws—so it’s helpful to check with shop staff or look out for any in-store notices.
Once the draw has taken place, sales reopen for the next scheduled draw. Any tickets bought after the cut-off will be valid for a future draw, not the one taking place that evening.
Is It Better To Buy Lottery Tickets From a Shop?
Whether it’s better to buy lottery tickets in a shop or online really depends on what suits each player’s preferences.
Some players find in-store purchases more practical—particularly those who prefer to pay with cash or like receiving a printed ticket. Others may appreciate being able to speak with staff if they have any questions about how the process works.
Online platforms offer a different kind of flexibility. Players can buy tickets at any time, set reminders for upcoming draws, and make use of built-in tools such as deposit limits and activity tracking.
Both methods are official, regulated, and secure—what matters most is choosing a trusted source.
As always, if you intend to play the lottery, always keep responsible gambling practices in mind and never wager more than you are willing to lose.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.