American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card – UK Edition

Turn everyday purchases into travel upgrades and exclusive experiences

Among the UK’s premium rewards credit cards, the American Express Preferred Rewards Gold has earned a place as a go-to option for those who travel often, enjoy dining out, or simply want to get more back from their spending. It combines a strong welcome incentive with generous earning rates and travel extras that can make a real difference — provided the card is used regularly and strategically.

Rather than just offering points on purchases, this card ties together perks that appeal to frequent flyers, food lovers, and those who appreciate flexibility in how rewards can be redeemed.

Standout Features

Generous Welcome Bonus – New members can typically collect between 20,000 and 30,000 Membership Rewards points after meeting the initial spend requirement. Depending on how they’re used, these points can be worth up to roughly £270 in travel.

Membership Rewards Earning

• 3 points per pound spent at major UK supermarkets, on dining worldwide, and on direct travel bookings through American Express Travel.
• 2 points per pound on foreign currency transactions.
• 1 point per pound on most other eligible purchases.

Travel Protections – Includes cover for trip delays, baggage mishaps, and purchase protection for certain transactions.

Global Dining Collection – Priority reservations and access to special experiences at select restaurants across the globe.

Hotel Collection Extras – Complimentary room upgrades and credit to spend at the property when booking at least two nights.

How It Works in Practice

Every eligible purchase earns Membership Rewards points, which can be put to work in a variety of ways:

• Transfer to over 20 airline partners, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Emirates.
• Convert to hotel points with major chains like Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, or Radisson Rewards.
• Book travel directly via American Express Travel.
• Redeem for gift cards, shopping, or statement credits (usually less value than travel redemptions).

For many cardholders, the real sweet spot lies in moving points to airline partners and redeeming for business or first-class flights, often unlocking far greater value than other uses.

Balancing the Cost Against the Benefits

The card carries an annual fee of £195, though the first year is sometimes waived for new customers. For people who travel a few times each year, dine out regularly, or book premium hotel stays, it’s not difficult to get more back than the fee costs. The inclusion of four complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge visits each year — worth about £80 — is a notable bonus.

How It Compares in the UK Market

Feature / Card	Amex Preferred Rewards Gold	British Airways Amex Premium Plus	Virgin Atlantic Reward+
Annual Fee	£195 (first year sometimes free)	£300	£160
Welcome Bonus	20k–30k MR points	25k Avios	15k–20k Virgin Points
Dining/Travel Points	3x MR	1.5x Avios	1.5x Virgin Points
Lounge Access	4 visits/year	No	No
Airline Flexibility	20+ partners	BA only	Virgin + partners

Best Suited To

• Travellers who value choice and flexibility with airline partners.
• Professionals in cities who regularly dine out or book leisure trips.
• Those wanting hotel and lounge perks without committing to a higher-fee Platinum card.

Final Take

For UK spenders with £1,000–£1,500 in monthly outgoings across travel, dining, and general purchases, the Gold Card’s mix of points, perks, and welcome offers can provide well over £400 in yearly value when used smartly. It’s not the cheapest option, but for anyone prepared to make the most of its benefits — particularly the travel transfers and exclusive dining access — it’s a card that can more than pay for itself.