Mobile internet in London: a visitor's guide
London has fast 4G and 5G across the city. The questions visitors actually have are whether their plan charges roaming in the UK, and whether they will have signal on the Underground.
See eSIMs for the UKRoaming in London
- EU phone plans: since Brexit the EU roaming rules do not cover the UK. Some operators still include it, others charge a daily fee: check yours.
- Plans from the US, Canada, Latin America or Asia: usually roaming charges or a daily pass.
- A UK data eSIM avoids the question: fixed price, local networks (O2 (5G), EE (5G), 3 (4G)).
eSIM for United Kingdom
Data on your phone the moment you land in United Kingdom. No account, no app, no shop.
Choose your data
For one to two weeks of maps, messaging and the odd video.
Buy up to 180 days before you fly: the plan only starts when the eSIM connects at your destination.
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Will it work on my phone?
On iPhone: Settings → General → About, and scroll to EID. If there is an EID, your phone takes eSIMs. Every iPhone from the XS (2018) onwards does.
On Android: Settings → About phone → Status, and look for EID. If there is an EID, your phone takes eSIMs. Most Galaxy S20, Pixel 3 and later do.
It also has to be carrier-unlocked. If you bought it outright or your contract is over, it almost certainly is.
And if it turns out yours cannot use it, write to us and you get every cent back.
Discount code
How it works
- 1Choose and payCard, Apple Pay or Google Pay. No account.
- 2Install it at homeThe QR arrives by email. Scan it on wifi in a minute.
- 3Connect when you landTurn on data roaming for the eSIM and you are online.
Signal on the Tube
Mobile coverage in Underground tunnels is being rolled out line by line: many central stations and sections already have 4G/5G, but not all of them yet, so expect gaps between some stations. Most stations also have Wi-Fi for customers of the main UK networks, which visitors often cannot use, so a data plan is more reliable.
Useful apps and tips
- Pay for the Tube, buses and trains with a contactless card or phone: no ticket needed, and daily fares are capped.
- Citymapper or Google Maps for live routes, both need data.
- Before travelling from the EU, apply for a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) on GOV.UK.
Prices for the UK
Data eSIMs: 3 GB for 4,49 €, 5 GB for 6,79 €, 10 GB for 11,79 € and 20 GB for 17,29 €. If London is part of a longer trip, a Europe eSIM covers the UK too.
Is there mobile signal on the London Underground?
On many lines and central stations, yes, and coverage keeps expanding, but some tunnel sections still have none.
Is roaming free in London with an EU plan?
Not guaranteed. After Brexit it depends on your operator and plan.
Does a UK eSIM give me a British number?
No, it is data only. WhatsApp and your own line keep your usual number.
Get your eSIM before you fly: the QR arrives by email in minutes and the plan only starts when you connect at your destination.
See eSIMs for the UK