From what I’ve noticed, a lot of players in the UK prefer playing at a real money casino rather than using free versions. For many people is that real money play feels more realistic.
Most real money casinos offer a decent mix of games, which is usually enough for casual play. From personal experience, choosing a trusted site matters more than chasing big bonuses.
Of course, it’s still important to set limits, especially when real money is involved. When approached with balance, real money casinos can be worth trying.