1
Hargreaves LansdownBest pick
The UK's largest platform, with the widest range of accounts and investments, and consistently top-rated customer service including UK-based phone support — reassuring for a first-time investor, even at a higher cost than rivals.
2
interactive investor
A flat monthly fee bundles your ISA, SIPP and Trading Account together, with a wide investment range — a solid, predictable choice, though the fixed fee is a bigger share of a very small pot.
3
InvestEngine
A 0% platform fee makes the cost side very simple for a beginner, but the ETF-only range means you can't hold individual shares — best suited to someone happy to start with a simple ETF portfolio.
How we chose
For this ranking we gave most weight to: quality and availability of customer support (including phone support), simplicity of the account-opening process, and the breadth of accounts available should your needs grow (for example, adding a SIPP later). We left Trading 212 out of this specific ranking: its 0% fees are excellent, but the absence of a SIPP and phone support makes it a better fit for a confident beginner than an absolute first-timer — the full review explains the trade-offs.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most important factor for a beginner?
For a first-time UK investor, having a Stocks & Shares ISA and confidence in the support available if something goes wrong often matters more than shaving the last few pounds off the platform fee.
Is it worth starting with a regular investing plan?
For many beginners, yes, because it automates investing with small, regular amounts — see our dedicated ranking of the best brokers for regular investing.