20 Side Hustle Ideas That Actually Work in the UK (2025 Edition)
Looking to boost your income in 2025? Whether you're saving for a house, tackling bills, or aiming for financial independence, these side hustle ideas are tried and tested by people across the UK.
Online Side Hustles
1. Sell on eBay or Vinted
Clear out unwanted clothes, gadgets, and collectibles. Vinted is great for clothing (no fees for sellers), while eBay is ideal for everything from electronics to tools. Post items with clear photos and fair pricing to sell fast.
2. Freelance on Fiverr or Upwork
Offer digital services like writing, design, coding, or video editing. UK freelancers can link a bank account or Payoneer to get paid. No experience? Start with small gigs and build up client reviews.
3. Start a Blog or Niche Website
Create a content site focused on a hobby or topic you know well. With time, you can earn from ads, affiliate links, or digital products. A domain costs ~£10/year and web hosting costs ~£30/year. Look into tools like WordPress, which make it easier for beginners to build a website, while retaining control over their website.
4. Amazon KDP (Self-Publishing)
Write or design low-content books like journals, planners, or kids’ activity books and sell on Amazon. It's free to publish, and royalties can add up over time.
5. Print-on-Demand Merchandise
Create T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags with your designs. Use platforms like Printful (UK-based) or Gelato and sell via Etsy or Shopify. No stock needed — it's printed and shipped when sold.
6. Start a Faceless YouTube Channel
Create videos using AI voiceovers, stock footage, or screen recordings. Niches like finance, tutorials, or relaxing sounds work well. Monetise with YouTube ads, affiliate links, or sponsors.
7. Virtual Assistant Work
Support small business owners with tasks like inbox management, scheduling, or research. Use Facebook groups or platforms like PeoplePerHour to find UK clients.
8. Online Tutoring
If you’re confident in a subject (like GCSE Maths or English), offer online lessons via Tutorful or Superprof. DBS checks often required for under-18s.
9. Proofreading & Editing
Help students, bloggers, or authors with spelling, grammar, and formatting. Set up a Fiverr profile or advertise in student Facebook groups.
Local & Hands-On Side Hustles
10. Offer Local Services
Dog walking, house cleaning, ironing, gardening — all in demand. Post in Facebook groups or print flyers. Start-up costs are low; reliability is key.
11. Sell Baked Goods or Custom Cakes
If you’re into baking, get a food hygiene rating and start taking orders for birthdays, weddings, or markets. Social media is your best marketing tool.
12. Pet Sitting or House Sitting
Look after pets while owners are away. Sites like Pawshake or TrustedHousesitters connect you with clients. Great if you love animals and have flexibility.
13. Deliver with Uber Eats or Just Eat
Use your car, scooter, or bicycle to deliver takeaway in your local area. Work evenings or weekends — flexible and no interview required.
14. Sell at Car Boot Sales or Flip Online
Source bargains at charity shops or Facebook Marketplace, then resell online. Some side hustlers make £1,000+/month flipping part-time.
15. Rent Out Your Driveway
Live near a station, stadium, or city centre? Rent your driveway on JustPark or YourParkingSpace. Set your own price and schedule.
Creative & Passive Income Ideas
16. Sell on Etsy (Stickers, Stationery, Crafts)
Design and sell printables, stickers, or handmade items. A Cricut machine or Canva Pro can help you create. Digital downloads have no shipping hassle.
17. Start a Side Hustle Newsletter
Build an audience by sharing money tips or niche updates via email. Use ConvertKit or Substack, and monetise with affiliates or sponsorships.
18. Resume or CV Editing
Polish CVs for job seekers using your writing and formatting skills. Great for students or professionals. Combine this with affiliate links to our CV templates and tools.
19. Become a Mystery Shopper
Get paid to visit shops, restaurants, or test websites. UK companies include Market Force, ESA Retail, and Grass Roots. Quick tasks with small but easy earnings.
20. Create an Online Course
Package your skills into a video course using platforms like Teachable or Udemy. Teach anything from Excel to calligraphy. It’s work upfront, then mostly passive income.
Comparison Table: Which Side Hustle is Right for You?
| Hustle Type | Effort | Startup Cost | Risk | Flexibility | Typical Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eBay/Vinted Selling | Low | £0–£10 | Low | High | £100–£500+ |
| Freelancing | Medium–High | £0 | Low | Medium | £250–£1,000+ |
| Blog/YouTube | High | £30+ | Medium | High | £0–£1,500+ |
| Delivering Food | Medium | £0–£50 | Low | High | £300–£800 |
| Online Tutoring | Medium | £0 | Low | Medium | £300–£1,200 |
FAQs About UK Side Hustles
Do I have to pay tax on my side hustle?
Yes, but the first £1,000 is tax-free under the trading allowance. Beyond that, you may need to register as self-employed and file a tax return.
How do I know which hustle to pick?
Choose based on your time, skills, risk tolerance, and budget. Many people start with a few and see what sticks.
Can I do these alongside a full-time job?
Absolutely. Many are flexible enough for evenings and weekends — just stay within legal and tax guidelines.
Which side hustle pays the most?
Skilled freelancing, online businesses (like blogging or YouTube), and tutoring have the highest long-term earning potential — but usually take longer to build.
Final Thoughts
Side hustles are more than a way to make extra cash. They can build skills, open career doors, and provide financial breathing room. Start small, learn fast, and stay consistent. The best time to start is now.