Top Resources for Learning English in 2025

Including the best websites, apps, books and downloadable tools to support your learning

Learning a new language can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be time-consuming, especially when you spend hours searching for reliable study tools. Whether you are just starting your English journey, brushing up your skills for study or work, or preparing for your IELTS or TOEFL exams, we have done the hard work for you. Below are some of the best English language learning resources in 2025, including websites, apps, downloadable tools and recommended books to help you progress with confidence.

Top Websites for Learning English

1. BBC Learning English

The BBC Learning English website continues to be one of the most trusted and comprehensive platforms available. It offers free online courses, video lessons, quizzes and audio series for learners at all levels. Topics include grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and business English. The "Words in the News" feature is particularly useful for understanding how English is used in current events.

Downloadable tip: You can access free transcripts and downloadable audio files to practise listening offline.

2. Business English Pod (YouTube)

This YouTube channel is ideal for those looking to develop their professional English. It focuses on vocabulary and communication for the workplace, including how to participate in meetings, conduct interviews and make presentations. The lessons are concise, practical and relevant to real-life business situations.

There is also a mobile app available, with lessons that can be downloaded for offline use.

3. English Page

English Page is a great resource for improving grammar, tenses and vocabulary. It also includes a wide range of listening content, such as talk shows, news reports and drama, offering both American and British English. These are particularly useful for developing listening comprehension and getting used to different accents.

Consider pairing this with tools like Podcastle or Otter.ai to generate transcripts or create personalised vocabulary lists.

4. Dave’s ESL Café

This long-standing website remains a favourite for students and teachers alike. It offers resources on idioms, slang, phrasal verbs and grammar, along with discussion forums where learners can engage with others around the world. There is also a job board, which is useful for those planning to teach English after completing their qualifications.

5. British Council – LearnEnglish

The British Council’s LearnEnglish platform is excellent for learners seeking structured support. It features free English level tests, podcasts, interactive games, academic writing advice and dedicated IELTS preparation materials.

Several British Council apps are also available, covering grammar, speaking, listening and IELTS revision. These are free to download and work offline once installed.

6. Flo-Joe

Flo-Joe is a specialist resource for students preparing for Cambridge English exams such as the FCE, CAE and CPE. It offers weekly vocabulary practice, sample speaking questions and mock exam papers across all sections of the tests.

New in 2025 is an expanded IELTS Speaking section, featuring vocabulary packs and model answers for common topics.

7. IELTS Podcast

This website offers a comprehensive guide to the IELTS exam. It breaks down each section of the test and includes practice questions, sample essays, marking criteria and learning tips. The podcast series is clear, encouraging and useful for learning on the move.

The episodes are available on major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.

Top Apps for Learning English

The following apps are particularly popular among learners in 2025:

• Anki – Create or download digital flashcards for learning vocabulary, including IELTS and TOEFL word lists.
• Elsa Speak – Uses artificial intelligence to give feedback on your pronunciation in real time.
• Duolingo English Test App – Now accepted by many universities as a valid English proficiency certificate.
• Tandem or HelloTalk – Connect with native speakers and practise English through text, audio or video chats.
• Quizlet – Offers vocabulary games and tools for memorisation, ideal for revision sessions.

Recommended Books

If you prefer to learn with physical or digital books, the following titles are highly regarded:

• English Grammar in Use by Raymond Murphy – A clear and structured grammar guide, widely used in classrooms and for self-study.
• Collins English for Exams series – Covers all four IELTS skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
• Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis – Ideal for improving vocabulary and building word confidence.
• Barron’s TOEFL iBT – Includes comprehensive practice exams, answer explanations and test strategies.

Useful Downloadable Materials

• BBC Learning English PDF worksheets – Available for offline use or classroom activities.
• British Council IELTS Study Planner – A week-by-week guide to help structure your preparation.
• Cambridge English Vocabulary Lists – Download topic-based vocabulary with sample sentences.
• Common Mistakes at IELTS – PDF versions may be available from libraries or official partners.

Final Advice

Learning English takes time and commitment, but with the right mix of online tools, offline resources and consistent practice, you can make steady progress and achieve your goals. Choose the resources that suit your learning style, and do not be afraid to mix things up with podcasts, flashcards, games and speaking practice.