London Prize Network — Historical Research & Modern Operators
London has a prize-giving tradition stretching back to 1569, when Queen Elizabeth I authorised the first English state lottery. London Prize Network documents this history — and the UKGC-licensed operators who carry it forward today.
Historical Archive
In 1569, Queen Elizabeth I authorised a national lottery to raise funds for the repair of the Cinque Ports harbours. Tickets were sold at St Paul's Cathedral, London, at 10 shillings each. First prize was ÂŁ5,000 in plate, tapestries and money. Some 400,000 tickets were printed.
Between 1694 and 1826, Parliament authorised regular state lotteries to fund national projects. The 1753 lottery raised funds to establish the British Museum. Lottery offices lined Cornhill, Cheapside and the Strand. The draws were held at Guildhall, with crowds gathering to watch the wheel.
By 1826, Parliament had grown concerned about the social effects of lotteries. Evangelicals, reformers and economists argued that lotteries encouraged vice and ruined families. The State Lottery Act 1826 abolished them. London's lottery offices closed. A 168-year gap began.
On 14 November 1994, the first National Lottery draw took place. Seven jackpot winners shared ÂŁ5.9 million. The Gambling Act 2005 created the UK Gambling Commission, establishing the regulatory framework that governs all six operators in our index today.
Modern heirs
10/10Editorial rating
UKGCRemote casino
24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
9/10Editorial ratingUKGCRemote casino24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
8/10Editorial ratingUKGCRemote casino24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
7/10Editorial ratingUKGCRemote + venues24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
6/10Editorial ratingUKGCRemote gaming24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
5/10Editorial ratingUKGCRemote gaming24/7Operator supportOperators in our index hold licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Verify current status on the public register.
From the prize guide
London Prize Network is an independent historical research and information service operated by M3 Marketing Company, 338 Euston Road, London NW1 3AU, United Kingdom. This website does not provide gambling services, accept wagers, or process any financial transactions. All operators referenced hold a current licence issued by the UK Gambling Commission. Inclusion of an operator does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation to gamble. Gambling involves financial risk. M3 Marketing Company may receive referral fees when users navigate to operator websites — see our Affiliate Disclosure. This website is intended for users aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom.
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