Three makes big changes in UK holiday hotspots as Brits shun poor coverage destinations

Mobile provider Three has spread its 5G coverage to 86 new areas as holidaymakers say they stay away from destinations with poor coverage.

Two thirds of Brits say good network coverage is important while on holiday, while 58% of Brits would be less likely to choose accommodation in areas with poor mobile phone coverage.

Two-fifths say they would avoid visiting a restaurant or doing an activity if the signal was poor - underlining just how much the country loves its phones.

A quarter would be unlikely to visit a holiday destination if they found reviews describing the area as having poor coverage, a survey of 2,000 people by Development Economics found.

Four service providers are now beaming out 5G (Getty Images)

Off the back of the research, Three has announced its spreading its 5G coverage to 86 new areas including rural and coastal locations across the UK like Dartmouth, Milford on Sea, Aberystwyth, Holywood and Irvine.

They join staycation hotspots such as Brighton, Blackpool, Edinburgh and Bangor that already has 5G coverage.

Currently Three, EE, O2 and Vodafone are the four providers to offer 5G in the UK, with competition ongoing to see which can spread its coverage the furthest across the country.

You can also check out the full list of where they currently operate.

Three says that its £2billion investment in network technology has doubled the number of 5G sites in the last year to 3,200.

Since the start of 2022, 5G has been rolled out to 86 new areas including North Devon, Torbay and Great Yarmouth.

The research suggested good mobile coverage was important for holiday makers (Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Elaine Carey, Three UK Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Whether it’s a coastal trip to the seaside, a quiet cottage getaway, or a city break, there is an expectation from holidaymakers that they will be able to stay in touch with friends and family, make use of online review and booking platforms, and post about their trip on social media.

“We are committed to playing our part to ensure we continue to provide excellent coverage for all.

"That’s why we’re investing £2m every day in the network to rollout the UK’s fastest 5G network which now covers more than 56% of the UK’s population.”