Best Rewards Credit Cards UK 2026
Rewards credit cards turn everyday spending into free flights, hotel stays and cashback. Used correctly — paying in full every month — a good rewards card earns hundreds of pounds worth of benefits each year at no extra cost.
Top Rewards Cards Compared
| Card | Reward Type | Earn Rate | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amex Preferred Rewards Gold | Membership Rewards | 1 point per £1 | £195 (free yr 1) |
| Barclaycard Avios Plus | Avios | 1.5 Avios per £1 | £20/month |
| Virgin Atlantic Reward | Virgin Points | 0.75 per £1 | None |
| Nectar American Express | Nectar Points | 2 per £1 at Nectar | None |
| John Lewis Partnership | JLP Vouchers | 1.25 per £1 | None |
Best for Travel: Amex Preferred Rewards Gold
The first year is fee-free. You receive 20,000 bonus points after spending £3,000 in the first three months — worth approximately two return flights to Europe when transferred to Avios. Points transfer to 15+ airline and hotel programmes including British Airways and Marriott.
Best No-Fee Rewards Card: Virgin Atlantic Reward
Zero annual fee, 0.75 Virgin Points per pound everywhere, 1.5 per pound on Virgin Atlantic flights. After a year of typical spending you will have enough for a meaningful flight upgrade or discounted reward seat.
Maximising Your Rewards
- Use the card for all regular spending — groceries, bills, subscriptions
- Pay the full balance every month without exception
- Redeem points for travel rewards rather than statement credit for the best value
Rates and rewards correct as of April 2026. American Express is not accepted everywhere — always carry a backup card.