UK eSIM guide: London, Edinburgh and the countryside
Updated November 2026
A UK eSIM runs on EE, Vodafone, Three or O2, with fast 4G and 5G in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and the other cities. The UK has been outside the EU’s roam-like-at-home rules since 2021, so some EU plans now charge for data there; check yours before you go. Install the eSIM at home and you are online when you land at Heathrow, Gatwick or Stansted.
What a trip costs
| Trip | eSIM price |
|---|---|
| London at Christmas, Winter Wonderland (4 days) | 1 GB · 7 days: €3.99 |
| London city break (7 days) | 3 GB · 30 days: €8.99 |
| London, Edinburgh and the Highlands (10 days) | 5 GB · 30 days: €10.99 |
| Language course or long stay (30 days) | 20 GB · 30 days: €29.99 |
Live prices in euros. Unlimited plans are also available for heavy use; the connection never stops (fair usage policy applies).
Coverage by area
| Where | What to expect |
|---|---|
| London | Fast 4G and 5G across the city and at the airports. On the Underground, many central stations and tunnels now have signal, but not every line yet. |
| Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool | Strong coverage in the city centres and at the stations. |
| Scottish Highlands and the Lake District | Fine in the towns; long gaps on mountain roads, glens and hiking trails. |
| On the train | Works on most intercity routes, with drops in tunnels and rural stretches. |
Before you go
- EU visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) since April 2025; apply in the official UK ETA app before you fly.
- Check whether your home plan still includes the UK. If it charges per day or per MB, a UK eSIM is usually cheaper.
Getting around London
- From Heathrow, the Elizabeth line, Heathrow Express and Piccadilly line run into central London.
- Tap a contactless bank card or phone on the Tube, buses and trains; you do not need an Oyster card.
- Citymapper or Google Maps for routes; Uber and Bolt for rides.
Frequently asked questions
Does EU roaming cover the UK?
Not under EU rules since 2021. Some EU operators still include the UK in their plans, others charge extra. Check your own plan.
Does the eSIM work on the London Underground?
In many central stations and tunnels, yes; mobile coverage is still being added to the rest of the network.
Which networks does a UK eSIM use?
EE, Vodafone, Three or O2.
Does it work as soon as I land at Heathrow?
Yes. Install it at home and switch mobile data to the eSIM after landing.
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