What Time Do Lottery Ticket Sales Close in the UK?
Buying lottery tickets is a common activity for many people in the UK. If you want to take part in a draw, it can be helpful to know when ticket sales close so you don’t miss your chance. Cut-off times vary based on the type of lottery and whether you’re playing at a shop or online.
This article will show you the closing times for the UK’s most popular lotteries, both in-store and online. We’ll also cover what to keep in mind when buying tickets late in the day and why these rules matter. Read on to learn more.
When Do Shops Stop Selling Lottery Tickets?
Tickets for draw-based lottery games like Lotto and EuroMillions can be purchased from authorised retailers, including convenience stores and supermarkets. On draw days, ticket sales usually close at 7.30pm.
This timing applies to both Lotto and EuroMillions. The closing time allows entries to be processed ahead of the draw. If you arrive at a shop after 7.30pm on a draw day, ticket sales will have paused for that draw.
Scratchcards are available outside of draw times. These are instant games and are usually sold during a shop’s normal operating hours, depending on stock.
Online platforms may have different timings. If you’re buying tickets digitally, it might be helpful to check the current details provided by the platform.
Does the Lottery Deadline Change on Draw Days?
For draw-based games, the 7.30pm cut-off applies on the day of each scheduled draw. You can still purchase entries in advance for future draws. On the actual day of the draw, though, tickets must be bought before the deadline for inclusion.
Occasionally, changes to draw schedules may be announced for specific events or special draws. In those cases, updated deadlines are shared in advance by the National Lottery or the relevant operator.
Smaller regional or charity lotteries may follow different sales times. You can usually find these by checking in-store signage or the organiser’s website.
How Late Can You Buy National Lottery Tickets Online?
Online purchases for draw-based games follow the same 7.30pm cut-off time on draw days. This applies to the National Lottery website and app.
These platforms often display a countdown to the deadline. After 7.30pm, entries for that draw close, and purchases go towards the next available draw.
If you’ve joined a syndicate or subscription online, entries must still be confirmed before the daily deadline for inclusion. Instant win games that are available online typically remain accessible outside draw times. Each game lists specific rules and availability.
App vs. Website: Is There a Difference in Cut-off Time?
There is no difference in cut-off times between the National Lottery app and website. Both follow the 7.30pm deadline on draw days for Lotto, EuroMillions, and other draw-based games.
If you’re using a different online lottery provider, cut-off times may vary. It could be helpful to check the operator’s own terms. On occasion, technical issues can affect access, so leaving time to make a purchase earlier in the day might be wise.
Buying a Ticket Late at Night: What You Should Know
If you attempt to purchase a ticket after 7.30pm on a draw day, the entry will usually apply to the next draw. Shops may close at different times, and some terminals may stop selling tickets before the stated cut-off due to local operating hours or system availability.
For online platforms, once the system reaches the cut-off time, you won’t be able to submit entries for that draw. You can still access instant win games, depending on availability and platform maintenance schedules.
Game details, including availability outside draw hours, are typically shown on the platform’s information pages.
Do Different Games Have Different Closing Times?
Not all draw games share the same schedule, though many have similar cut-off times. Lotto and EuroMillions close at 7.30pm on their respective draw days. Thunderball, which runs four times a week, also follows the 7.30pm deadline on each draw day.
Games like Set For Life and EuroMillions HotPicks have similar deadlines but may run on different days. It might be a good idea to refer to the specific draw schedule provided on the ticket or the official website of the organiser.
Charity or society lotteries may use separate timings. Information is generally listed on the ticket, displayed at the point of sale, or available online through the provider.
Scratchcards and other instant games are not linked to draw schedules. These are typically available for purchase during standard retail or online hours.
What Happens If You Miss the Cut-off?
If you try to purchase a ticket after the cut-off time, your entry is usually placed into the next scheduled draw. In shops, this may be shown on the terminal or explained by staff. Online, the platform will apply your entry to the next draw automatically.
This applies only to draw-based games. Scratchcards and instant win games continue to be available outside draw times, depending on availability and platform guidelines.
Details on how late entries are handled can be found in each operator’s rules, or by checking with customer support if you’re unsure.
Best Time to Buy a Lottery Ticket in the UK
The timing of your ticket purchase depends on your own preferences. Some choose to buy in advance, while others prefer closer to the cut-off. If you’re playing online, most platforms provide clear information on when games are available and when entries close.
At Mr Luck, you’ll find a selection of games including slots, table games, and instant win options. These games are licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), and tools are available to help you set deposit limits or take breaks when needed.
Understanding ticket sales deadlines could help ensure your entries are submitted on time. If anything is unclear, consider checking the information provided by the game operator or speak to customer support.
**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.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.