Best Free Website Builder In The UK 2024

If you’re looking for the best website builder in the UK to create your own website for business or personal use in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will explore the most popular website builders and what they offer. Whether you need a website for your blog or your business, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn how to create a professional-looking website for free.

Quick Summary

Popular Page Builder Tools

Choosing a website builder can be overwhelming, especially with so many options. The best website builders are user-friendly and allow you to create a website in minutes, even without coding experience. They’re packed with features like templates, storage, and SEO tools to suit different needs.

Wix: All-Round and Easy to Use

Wix is one of the most feature-rich and easy-to-use website builders available. The free plan is perfect for beginners who want to try it before they buy. Wix is known for its drag-and-drop editor, making it the simplest website builder.

Wix has a vast array of templates (over 800!), well-designed and suitable for different industries. You also get over 500 mobile-friendly templates, so your website will look great on all devices. The templates are highly customisable, so you can make your website truly unique.

Weebly: Great Customer Support

Weebly is one of the best free website builders for customer support. The free plan includes 24/7 live chat support, so you’ll never be stranded if stuck. Weebly is a great choice if you need a helping hand to get started.

Weebly’s free plan includes a drag-and-drop editor, templates, and storage. You also get a free domain name and e-commerce features if you need them. Weebly’s templates are clean and modern, and they’re all mobile-friendly. If you need help customising your website, Weebly offers a range of apps to help you grow your online presence.

Weebly’s customer support is backed up by a mobile app that lets you manage your website on the go. You can edit, update your blog, and monitor your shop from your smartphone. Weebly is a great choice if you need to update your website regularly.

Weebly is also straightforward to use. You can set up your website in minutes, and it’s very easy to customise. Weebly is an excellent choice if you’re not tech-savvy and need a website that is up and running quickly.

WordPress.com: Best for Bloggers

WordPress.com is one of the most popular blogging platforms, and it’s free to use. You get access to hundreds of popular themes, so you can customise your blog to suit your style. WordPress.com is a great choice for a visually appealing and easy-to-use website.

One of WordPress.com’s most significant advantages is automatic backups and software updates. You don’t have to worry about a thing; your blog is safe and secure. WordPress.com also has a 100% uptime, so your website is always available to visitors.

Shopify: Leading eCommerce Solution

Shopify is a top choice for those looking to create an online store, offering a robust suite of eCommerce features. While Shopify is primarily known for its paid plans, it offers a generous free trial, allowing users to explore its capabilities without financial commitment. This free trial is an excellent opportunity for small businesses and entrepreneurs to test the platform’s features and see if it meets their needs.

The platform is celebrated for its comprehensive eCommerce functionality, including inventory management, secure payment processing, and customizable store templates. Shopify’s drag-and-drop editor makes it easy for users to design a professional-looking online store without coding skills. Additionally, Shopify integrates seamlessly with various marketing tools, helping businesses enhance their online presence and reach a broader audience.

Another significant advantage of Shopify is its app market, which offers a wide range of plugins to expand your store’s functionality, from SEO tools to social media integrations. The platform also supports scalability, meaning that as your business grows, Shopify can accommodate increased product listings and sales volume.

Technical Issues

WordPress.com can be overwhelming if you’re not tech-savvy. It’s packed with features, but the terminology can be confusing. You may find it challenging to use if you’re unfamiliar with blogging platforms.

Most Important Features

When choosing a free website builder, look for a few features. They’ll make a big difference to your website’s success and ensure its ease of use.

Simple to Use

A website builder should be simple to use. Look for drag-and-drop features that make it easy to build your website. Wix is one of the most uncomplicated website builders, with a user-friendly interface that requires no coding knowledge.

Weebly is also straightforward to use. You can set up your website in minutes, and it’s very easy to customise. Many website builders now use AI to help you customise your website. It asks questions about your business and then recommends templates and features. It’s a great way to get started online quickly.

WordPress, when paired with Elementor, offers a powerful site builder experience. Elementor is a popular drag-and-drop editor that enhances WordPress’s functionality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking creative freedom without extensive technical skills. As an AI website builder, Elementor simplifies the website creation process by providing intuitive design tools and pre-built templates, allowing users to craft professional websites effortlessly. This combination ensures that even beginners can create stunning websites, leveraging AI to optimize design elements and streamline the building process.

Customisation Options

Customisation options are important if you want a unique website with standout website features. WordPress.com’s free plan includes access to popular themes, allowing you to customise your blog immediately. Many website builders offer a range of templates, often designed by professionals.

For example, Wix provides various templates crafted by renowned designers. They’re well-designed and suitable for different industries, and you can further tailor your template to align with your brand. Customisation options and robust website features are essential if you want a professional-looking website.

Limited Design Options

The main downside to customisation options is that many free website builders limit you to a certain number of templates. This can make your website look generic and make it harder to stand out. Strikingly, for example, is perfect if you want a unique website. It’s designed for one-page websites and is ideal for personal blogs.

If you’re an artist or creative, you’ll want a website that showcases your work. Many free website builders have templates designed specifically for artists and creatives. You can also customise your website with your graphics and text. Wix, for example, has a range of templates perfect for artists and musicians. You can add your images and videos to showcase your work.

SEO Tools

SEO tools are important if you want your website to be visible in search engine results. Built-in SEO and marketing tools can help you optimize your website for search engines and attract more visitors. They’ll help you optimise your content and increase your chances of ranking higher in search engine results.

Weebly, for example, has built-in SEO tools that let you add meta descriptions and titles to your pages. You can also conduct keyword research and optimise your website structure. Relevant keywords are essential to optimise your content for search engines. You can add keywords to your text and optimise your images. Wix also has SEO tools that let you add meta tags and descriptions to your pages. You can also track your website’s rankings and analytics.

Built-in SEO Apps

Wix, for example, has built-in SEO apps that help you optimise your website for search engines. They’re easy to use and help you optimise your website for search engines.

Free Website Builder or Paid Plan?

A free website builder is a great way to get started online. They’re perfect for beginners and small businesses, as they’re budget-friendly and can help you establish an online presence. However, they’re limited and may not be suitable for bigger companies.

Free Plan Features

Free website builders usually include a free web hosting package, so you don’t have to pay for hosting. Free plans typically include simple templates, basic SEO tools, and limited storage (usually 500MB). They’re perfect for a basic website, personal blog, or small portfolio website.

Free Plan Limitations

Free plans are limited and can be pretty restrictive. They usually include fixed banner ads, but you can’t remove them. You’re also limited in how much you can customise your template and can’t add your domain name. Some free plans also display ads on your website, but you can’t remove them. Wix, for example, displays ads on your website and can’t remove them until you upgrade to a paid plan. Weebly also displays ads on your website, but you can remove them if you upgrade to a paid plan.

Paid Plan Benefits

Upgrading to a paid plan is worth it if you want a professional website. Free website builders are very limiting and display ads on your website. Wix, for example, displays ads on your website, but you can’t remove them until you upgrade to a paid plan. Weebly also displays ads on your website, but you can remove them if you upgrade to a paid plan.

Paid plans also remove the website builder’s name from your web address and give you access to more features and storage. Free plans usually include limited storage (usually 500MB) and you can’t upload your files. Paid plans include a free domain name, and you can remove ads from your website.

Expert Help and Support

GoDaddy and Shopify offer paid plans with expert help and advanced customer support. These plans also grow with your business and include advanced eCommerce features. You can manage a larger product inventory and improve sales with features like abandoned cart recovery and product reviews.

Shopify’s paid plans include innovative features like Shopify Magic, an AI tool that helps you write product descriptions. It’s a great way to make your products sound amazing and increase sales. Paid plans also include features like point of sale (POS) systems and shipping discounts. Shopify’s paid plans start at £29 per month and GoDaddy’s start at £5 per month.

Choosing a Free Website Builder

Choosing a website builder is important because it affects how your website is designed, built, and maintained. A user-friendly website builder is perfect if you want a website up and running quickly.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the best website builder for you.

What’s Your Website’s Purpose?

What’s the primary purpose of your website? Different website builders are perfect for other purposes. If you want to sell products online, you’ll need an eCommerce website. If you’re going to blog, you’ll need a website with a blog. If you’re starting a small business, you’ll want a website with contact information and a portfolio.

Wix and Weebly are perfect for small businesses because they’re easy to use and include various features. If you want to blog, WordPress.com is a great choice. If you’re an artist, Strikingly is perfect for a one-page website.

What Type of Website Do You Want?

If you’re a photographer, you’ll want an online portfolio website. Squarespace is perfect because it’s designed for creatives and includes beautiful templates. If you want to write blog posts, you’ll need a website with a blog. WordPress.com is perfect for bloggers because it consists of a range of highly customizable themes.

Your website builder should suit your website’s purpose. If you’re not sure what type of website you need, think about your goals. Do you want to sell products online? Do you want to blog? Do you want to showcase your portfolio? Once you know what you want your website to include, you can choose a website builder that’s perfect for you.

What Features Do You Need?

The features you need will depend on your website’s purpose. A paid plan is recommended to sell products online because it includes advanced eCommerce features. Shopify, for example, provides everything you need to sell online, and your business can grow with their plans. You can manage a larger product inventory and improve sales with features like abandoned cart recovery and product reviews.

If you need to schedule appointments, Squarespace integrates with Acuity, making it an excellent choice for service-based businesses. Paid plans also include a custom domain name, so you can remove the website builder’s name and give your website a professional look. Paid plans also include more storage to upload high-quality files and media.

Is it Scalable?

Scalability is crucial if you want a website that can grow with your business. If you start a small business, you may only need an essential website with contact information. However, you’ll need a website to handle online sales and orders if you want to sell products online. You may want to sell advertising or affiliate products if you’re a blogger.

Your website builder should be scalable, so you can upgrade to a more advanced plan if you need more features. Wix, for example, has a range of plans that include more storage and features. You can upgrade to their eCommerce plan if you need to sell products online. If you need more storage, you can upgrade to their unlimited plan.

Wix and Shopify are great examples of scalable website builders. You can upgrade to a more advanced plan if you need more storage and features. You can upgrade to their eCommerce plan if you need to sell products online. If you need more storage, you can upgrade to their unlimited plan.

Your website builder should be able to grow with your business. If you choose a non-scalable website builder, you may struggle to keep your website up-to-date and running smoothly. You may also need to switch to a completely different website builder, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.

How to Create a Website with a Free Builder

Creating a website with a free builder is easy and can be broken down into a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for an account with the website builder.
2. Choose a template that suits your purpose.
3. Customise your website by adding your content and images.
4. Optimise your website for search engines.

These steps will help you create a professional-looking website quickly and easily.

Step 1: Sign Up and Choose a Template

You’ll need to sign up and choose a template to get started. Most website builders have a simple registration process that only requires basic information. Once you’ve signed up, you can choose a template.

Choosing a template is important because it affects how your website is designed and functions. High-quality images can make or break your website’s credibility and professionalism. Many website builders include beautiful templates designed for different niches so your website will look professional and suitable for your purpose.

Your template will open in the website builder’s drag-and-drop editor. Across the top, you’ll see icons and menus that include design elements to customise your template, such as text, images, and layout options. Many website builders offer helpful onboarding hints during the setup process so you can learn how to use the editor and make the most of your template.

Step 2: Customise Your Website

Once you’ve chosen a template, it’s time to customise your website. The best website builders are easy to use and highly customisable, so you can create your desired website. You can add text, images, and other content and change the layout and design to suit your brand. Many website builders include integrated AI features that help you create your website quickly.

You’ll customise your website by changing the colours, fonts, and layout to suit your brand. You can also add visual content like images and videos to make your website more engaging and interactive.

Make sure your website is functional and beautiful. You can use tools to create a user-friendly website, such as easy navigation and clear calls to action. To grow your audience, you can add features like contact forms and email marketing. Customising your template turns a basic website into a professional-looking one perfect for your business or blog.

Step 3: Publish and Optimise

Once you’re happy with your website, it’s time to publish it. Click the ‘publish’ button in the website builder’s dashboard to launch your website. Your website will now be live and available to the public.

Publishing your website is only the first step. It would be best to optimise it for search engines to improve your visibility in search engine results. Built-in SEO tools help you optimise your website’s content, meta descriptions, and keywords. You can also add internal and external links to optimise your website for search engines.

You should also update and optimise your website regularly. You can use marketing and SEO tools to promote your website and attract more visitors. Many website builders include analytics and reporting tools so you can track your website’s performance and make data-driven decisions.

Examples of Websites Made with Free Builders

Many websites have been built using free website builders. These platforms give you the tools and features to create a professional-looking site without breaking the bank.

Here are some examples of personal blogs, small business sites and portfolios that have used free website builders to achieve their goals with their site.

Personal Blogs

Personal blogs are the most common use of free website builders and many have gained a huge following using these platforms. Notable personal blogs have used Wix to showcase their content and get readers.

They use customizable templates and SEO tools to create beautiful and easy-to-use sites. Focusing on great content and regular updates helps personal bloggers build an online presence and a loyal following.

Using a free website builder lets bloggers focus on what they love without worrying about technicalities or financials. This has opened up the blogging world to anyone to share their voice and connect with the world.

Small Business Sites

Small businesses have also used free website builders to showcase their services and get customers. Many small companies have built a solid online presence using free website builders and seen increased visibility and customer engagement.

Wix and Yola are popular choices among small businesses because of their ease of use and features. These builders give you the tools to build a professional-looking site, including SEO tools, customizable templates, and eCommerce functionality.

By using free website builders, small businesses can reduce their overhead costs while maintaining a professional online presence. They can focus on growing their business and reaching a wider audience without the need for a big upfront investment.

Portfolios

Artists and designers use free website builders to create interactive and beautiful portfolios. These platforms let them showcase their work dynamically and get potential clients and collaborators.

Free website builders have stunning portfolio templates, allowing users to display their work beautifully and professionally. Customizing these templates gives artists more creative freedom to show their work in their style and vision.

Artists can create a professional-looking portfolio using a free website builder without design skills or financial investment. This lets them focus on their craft while still promoting their work online.

eCommerce

Creating an online store can be a seamless experience with the right website builder. Thanks to their user-friendly drag-and-drop editor, many small businesses and entrepreneurs have successfully launched their online stores using website builders. This feature allows users to design their eCommerce website without any coding knowledge, making it accessible to everyone.

Website builders like Wix and Shopify offer robust eCommerce functionality, enabling users to add product listings, manage inventory, and process payments efficiently. These platforms provide customizable templates designed for online stores, ensuring customers a professional and attractive shopping experience.

With built-in marketing tools and SEO features, these website builders help businesses optimize their online presence and reach a wider audience. By leveraging these tools, online store owners can enhance their visibility in search engine results, driving more traffic and potential sales.

In summary, using a website builder to create an eCommerce site offers a cost-effective and straightforward solution for launching a successful online store. Whether you’re a small business or an individual seller, these platforms provide all the necessary features to build a functional and visually appealing eCommerce website.

How to Get the Most out of Free Website Builders

Getting the most out of free website builders means choosing the features that fit your goals and keeping the site current. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your free website builder and build a professional-looking site that stands out.

Use Available Templates

Choosing a suitable template is the foundation of your site’s design and usability. Look for templates designed for your niche or purpose so your content is relevant. Evaluate templates on user-friendliness so visitors can navigate easily.

Customization options let you change colours, fonts, and layouts to match your personal or business branding. Drag and drop to move elements around in your chosen template to make it look more visually appealing. Add your graphics and content to make your site stand out from others using the same template.

Ensure your chosen and customized template reflects your brand identity so people can recognize and trust you. A good template can make a big difference to your site’s overall look and feel.

Use SEO Tools

Built-in SEO tools are crucial for SEO, which means better website visibility. Free website builder plans usually include basic SEO tools to help you optimize your content and rankings.

Maximizing SEO benefits means publishing your site and optimizing it using the built-in SEO tools. These tools usually include meta descriptions, keyword research, and site structure options.

Using SEO tools will make your site competitive and easily found by search engines. This increased visibility will generate more organic traffic, help you reach a wider audience, and achieve your online goals.

Update and Maintain

Regular updates and maintenance are crucial to keeping a site functional and engaging for visitors. After publishing, you can still edit your site; ongoing updates are important to keep users interested. Updating your content regularly keeps your site fresh and relevant, which is important to keep visitors and attract new ones.

Regular maintenance checks can also help you identify and fix any issues that may arise so the user experience is smooth. Having an up-to-date and well-maintained site reflects well on your brand and encourages visitors to come back. This ongoing commitment to quality will help you build an audience and achieve long-term success online.

Conclusion

In short, free website builders are a cost-effective and easy way to build a professional-looking site without any technical skills. From Wix and Weebly to WordPress.com, these builders have a range of features to suit different needs, from blogging to small business sites and portfolios. By choosing the right builder and using its features wisely, you can build an online presence and achieve your goals.

Whether a beginner wants to dip your toes or a small business wants to reach a wider audience, free website builders have the necessary tools and flexibility. Regular updates, SEO and choosing the right template are crucial to getting the most out of these platforms. With the right approach, you can build a beautiful site that reflects your brand and engages your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions