How UK49s Works / FAQ
UK49s Explained — Draw Times, Rules & FAQ!
UK49s is a daily numbers draw that began in 1996, shortly after the launch of the UK National Lottery. Unlike a traditional lottery with one weekly draw and a shared jackpot, UK49s runs twice a day, every day, and pays out on a fixed-odds basis — meaning the potential return is set in advance based on your stake and the numbers you choose, rather than depending on a shared prize pool.
Each draw selects six main numbers from a pool of 1 to 49, plus one additional Booster Ball. Betting on the outcome is done through licensed bookmakers, not through direct ticket sales — you choose how many numbers to play and how much to stake, and the bookmaker sets the odds for each type of bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Teatime draw?
Around 17:49 PM UK time each evening (18:49–19:49 South African time depending on the season).
When is the Lunchtime draw?
Around 12:49 PM UK time each day (13:49–14:49 South African time depending on the season).
When is the Brunchtime draw?
Around 10:49 AM UK time each day (11:49–12:49 South African time, depending on the season).
When is the Drivetime draw?
Around 15:49 PM UK time each day (16:49–17:49 South African time, depending on the season).
Can I predict UK49s numbers?
No — each draw is an independent random event, and no formula or “hot/cold number” theory can reliably predict the outcome. See our Prediction Myths blog post for a full explanation.
Does checking the results history help me pick better numbers?
Not in a predictive sense. The history is useful for record-keeping and curiosity, but past draws have no influence on future ones.
How are the odds calculated for UK49s bets?
Bookmakers set fixed odds based on the mathematical probability of each outcome, minus their margin. See our How Fixed-Odds Betting Works blog post for a full breakdown.
Why does UK49s have four draws a day now?
Brunchtime and Drivetime were introduced in January 2026, adding two extra daily draws alongside the original Lunchtime and Teatime draws.
Why do the South African times shift during the year?
The UK moves its clocks forward and back for daylight saving (British Summer Time), while South Africa doesn’t observe daylight saving. That means the gap between UK time and South African time changes by an hour twice a year.
What is the Booster Ball?
It’s a seventh number drawn in addition to the six main numbers. Some bet types include it, which can increase the numbers you’re matching against and open up additional betting options.
Where can I place a bet on UK49s?
Through licensed bookmakers who offer the UK49s market. We don’t take bets ourselves — this site only publishes draw results for informational purposes.
Is UK49Central affiliated with UK49s or the official operator?
No. We are an independent, unofficial results page. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by UK Lotto Limited, 49s Ltd, or any bookmaker. Please gamble responsibly. UK49s betting involves real financial risk. Never bet more than you can afford to lose, and if gambling stops being fun or starts to feel out of your control, reach out for support — in South Africa, the National Responsible Gambling Programme helpline is available on 0800 006 008