How to Cancel Netflix Without Losing Your Viewing History

In the face of rising subscription costs, many UK consumers are reconsidering their monthly outgoings. If you're feeling the pinch and contemplating whether to cancel Netflix, you're not alone. With the basic Netflix plan now priced at £6.99 per month, and the premium plan at an eye-watering £15.99, it's understandable why you'd want to reassess this expense. But what if you could cancel Netflix without losing your beloved viewing history and watchlist? Well, you're in luck! Here's how to do just that.

Step 1: Download Your Viewing History

Before you say goodbye to Netflix, ensure you have a copy of your viewing history. This data not only serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane but can also be handy if you decide to return to the streaming giant in the future.

Log in to your Netflix account using a web browser.
Navigate to 'Account' from the dropdown menu under your profile icon.
Select 'Profile & Parental Controls' and choose the profile you want to download history for.
Click on 'Viewing activity'. Here, you’ll see a list of everything you've watched.
Scroll down and click on 'Download all'. This will download a .csv file containing your full viewing history.

Pro Tip: Keep this .csv file secure. It holds all your cherished memories from the shows and movies you've watched over the years!

Step 2: Save Your Watchlist

Netflix doesn't offer a direct way to download your watchlist, but with a little manual effort, you can create a backup.

Access your 'My List' by navigating to your profile's home page.
Take screenshots or manually note down the items listed. This quick reference can save you time if you decide to resubscribe or want to find similar content on another platform.

Step 3: Cancel Your Netflix Subscription

Now that you've safeguarded your viewing history and watchlist, it's time to proceed with cancellation.

Go to 'Account' from the dropdown menu.
Click on 'Cancel Membership' under 'Membership & Billing'.
Follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation.

Important: Cancellation is effective at the end of your billing cycle. You’ll still have access until your current subscription period ends.

Step 4: Explore Alternatives

While Netflix is undoubtedly popular, the UK market is teeming with alternatives that may suit your budget and viewing preferences better.

Amazon Prime Video: Offers a variety of content, including exclusive shows and films, for £8.99 per month. Plus, you get the added benefits of free Amazon deliveries and music streaming.
Disney+: For £7.99 a month or £79.90 annually, you gain access to a vast library of Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub: Both are free, offering a range of British television shows and series.

Step 5: Consider Sharing Accounts

If you’re not ready to let go of Netflix entirely, consider sharing a subscription with family or friends. Netflix's terms allow for account sharing within a household. By splitting the cost, you can enjoy premium content without bearing the full financial burden.

Cost-Saving Tip: Use a budgeting app like Emma or Yolt to keep track of shared expenses and ensure everyone contributes their fair share.

Step 6: Keep an Eye on Offers

Streaming platforms frequently run promotions and offer free trials. Keep an eye on these to return to Netflix or explore other services at a lower cost.

Google Alerts: Set up alerts for keywords like "Netflix promotion UK" or "streaming service discounts" to stay updated.
Voucher Sites: Websites like VoucherCodes or HotUKDeals often list streaming promotions.

Final Thoughts

Cancelling Netflix doesn’t have to mean losing your viewing history. By taking a few precautionary steps, you can save your cherished data and explore the multitude of entertainment options available in the UK. Remember, savvy management of your subscriptions can lead to significant savings without sacrificing your entertainment needs.

Remember: Empowerment comes from being informed. By understanding your options and rights as a consumer, you can make the choices that best suit your lifestyle and budget.