Instagram attracts a big audience of people in the United Kingdom as they use the app for sharing pictures, videos, and stories on a daily basis. It has now become an essential tool for businesses to engage with their customers people, too. Understanding the latest trends in the UK will certainly make your efforts more worthwhile.
In this article, In this article, we are going to address the most important trends on Instagram in the UK for the year 2025. You will learn what content needs to be posted, the best time to do so, and which strategies people and brands use to achieve higher likes and follows.
Who Uses Instagram in the UK?
First, it helps to know who uses Instagram in the UK. There are about 35 million Instagram users in the country. Most of these users are young people between 18 and 34 years old. But lots of people in their 30s, 40s, and even older use Instagram too.
Both men and women are active on Instagram. Women are a little more active than men, but the difference is small. This means Instagram is good for reaching many kinds of people.
If you are a business, you should know who your target audience is. Are you trying to reach young people? Or maybe parents or working professionals? Knowing this helps you create posts that speak to those groups.
Trend 1: Real and Honest Content Wins
One of the biggest trends in the UK is people liking real, honest posts. Instead of perfectly edited photos, users want to see true stories and everyday moments. This kind of content feels more genuine and helps build trust.
For example, a UK clothing brand might show how their clothes are made or share stories from their workers. Or they might post photos from customers wearing their products.
People like behind-the-scenes looks or posts that show struggles and successes. This makes them feel connected to the brand or person.
Trend 2: Using Hashtags and Keywords Right
Hashtags are still very helpful on Instagram. They are like tags that group posts about the same topic. If you add popular hashtags, more people can find your posts.
But in 2025, keywords in captions and profiles are also very important. Instagram’s search works like a search engine, so using the right words helps your posts show up when people look for them.
For example, if you run a travel account, using words like “UK travel” or “best places in England” in your captions can help more people find you.
Make sure to add keywords that relate to your content naturally.
Trend 3: Videos, Especially Reels, Are Very Popular
Short videos called Reels are very popular on Instagram now. Reels are fun, quick videos that often get shown to many users, even if they don’t follow you.
People like watching Reels because they are easy to watch and share. Brands use Reels to show how their products work, give tips, or share fun moments.
Carousels are also popular. These are posts where you can swipe through several pictures or slides. Carousels work well for showing steps, telling a story, or sharing different views of one product.
If you want more engagement, try to mix videos and carousel posts with your regular photos.
Trend 4: Influencers Help Reach More People
Working with influencers is still a smart way to grow on Instagram. Influencers are people with many followers who can recommend products or services.
In the UK, small influencers, called micro-influencers, often do better than big celebrities. Their followers trust them more because they seem like normal people.
For example, a small food blogger in London might team up with a local restaurant. This feels more real and helps the restaurant get more customers.
Choose influencers who match your brand and audience.
Trend 5: Shopping on Instagram Is Growing
Instagram is now a place where people can buy things directly. Brands in the UK use Instagram Shopping to tag products in their posts. This lets users click and buy without leaving the app.
For example, a clothing shop can tag a dress in a photo. A customer can tap it, see the price, and buy it quickly.
Social shopping is easy and saves time. Brands that use it well can increase sales fast.
Trend 6: Post at the Right Time
When you post on Instagram matters. In the UK, the best times to post are usually at lunch (12 pm to 2 pm) and in the early evening (5 pm to 7 pm) during weekdays.
However, every account is different. Instagram’s tools let you see when your followers are most active. Try to post when most of your audience is online. This helps more people see and like your posts.
Trend 7: Talk to Your Followers
Instagram is not just about posting. It is also about chatting with your followers. Reply to their comments, answer questions, and thank them for sharing your posts.
Sharing photos or videos that your followers make is a great way to show you care. This is called user-generated content.
When you engage with followers, they feel closer to you or your brand. This builds loyalty and helps your account grow.
Trend 8: Stories and Highlights Keep Followers Interested
Instagram Stories are short posts that disappear after 24 hours. They are good for quick updates or fun moments.
Stories let you ask questions, run polls, or share quick tips. Many UK brands use Stories every day to stay connected with followers.
Highlights let you save your best Stories on your profile. This means new visitors can see important content anytime.
Trend 9: Follow UK Advertising Rules
In the UK, there are rules about advertising on social media. If a post is paid or sponsored, it must say so clearly. This helps keep things honest.
Following these rules is important to keep trust and avoid problems.
Trend 10: Use Data to Get Better
Instagram gives accounts data on how well posts do. You can see how many likes, comments, and saves your posts get.
By checking this information, you can learn what your followers like best. If videos get more views, make more videos.
Using data helps you improve and grow your Instagram.
Real Examples from UK Brands
- Lucy & Yak: The brand captures their customers’ testimonies and shares them on social media. They post videos and photos that feel real.
- Pizza Express: Made use of Instagram Shopping and gave away items to get customers for National Pizza Day.
- Stella Artois: This beer company hired small UK influencers to market their products in an organic and authentic manner.
These brands show how to utilise Instagram trends for engagement and marketing.
Final Thoughts
Instagram in the UK is changing fast. People want real stories, fun videos, and easy ways to shop. Hashtags and keywords help people find posts. Influencers still help brands grow. Posting at the right time and talking to followers is important.
Be honest, share videos, use hashtags, and keep talking to your followers. This way, you will build a strong Instagram presence in 2025.