It also works when using a smart DNS service. This type of connection makes iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Netflix etc, think you are in the UK. It does not ‘virtually’ re-locate you to the UK like a VPN service does.
VPN - security advantages, don’t always work with all uk based tv apps. As the vpn encrypts your internet traffic, it makes it slower, so may be difficult to watch iplayer etc, if you only have a slow connection anyway.
Smart DNS - not as secure as vpn, does not encrypt any information. Does not virtually locate you to any position in the world that you request. But the connections are quicker and thus the tv apps can work better.
Both systems need to update to make sure you can have access to all services, so can occasionally be unstable.
Both systems can be incorporated into wifi systems. But smart dns can also be added easily to individual devices e.g. smart tvs, ipads, phones etc.
I would plump for a smart dns, I know someone (coughs loudly) who has tried both systems, found the smart dns more reliable and is able to stream tv in hd/ultra hd.
As already stated, if you wish to watch uk based tv services via the internet on a smart tv, the tv should be purchased in the uk.
If you watch uk satellite tv, the tv can be fron France and you just plug it in.
There are smart tv’s available that have freesat built in, and some let you record by plugging a hard drive in. If you get a tv with twin freesat tuners, you can watch tv whilst recording another etc.
If you use this method there is no need for a separate satellite box.