Free Wi-Fi in the UK: where to get online for free

Out of mobile data or trying to save it? Britain is full of places with free Wi-Fi — from libraries to coffee shops. Here is where to get online for free and what to watch out for so you do not put your data at risk.

Libraries: free internet and computers

The most reliable free internet is at a public library. As gov.uk states, libraries provide free internet access, computers and study space. Membership is free, and Wi-Fi and computers are available to all visitors — handy when you need to apply for something online, print a document or simply get online.

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Cafes, fast food and shops

Free Wi-Fi has long been standard in coffee shops and fast food: Starbucks, Costa, Caffè Nero, McDonald's and Wetherspoon pubs usually let you online for free — sometimes you just accept the terms on a landing page. Free Wi-Fi is also common in shopping centres and large stores. Often all they ask for is an email address.

Transport and public places

Free Wi-Fi works at London Underground stations, at many National Rail stations and on some buses and trains. Free hotspots also turn up in airports, museums and even on some city streets where councils provide public Wi-Fi. The network name is usually visible in your list of available connections.

How do you use free Wi-Fi safely?

Public Wi-Fi is fine for ordinary browsing, but for anything important it is better to be careful. Cyber security experts (the NCSC) advise against entering bank or card details on open networks: for online banking and shopping, mobile data or a VPN is safer. Make sure you are connecting to the venue's genuine network rather than a similar-looking fake one, and keep your device updated. Then free internet is both convenient and safe.