Which mobile networks keep you connected at Exeter’s most remote pubs?

Mobile provider spusu has released new data comparing 4G and 5G coverage at eight of the UK’s most isolated pubs – and it includes two familiar names for locals: The Turf Hotel in Exeter and The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island, Devon.

The research was prompted by a 2024 Opensignal study that found the UK has the least reliable mobile experience among G7 nations. With rural areas particularly affected by patchy service, spusu set out to test which networks perform best in places where a good signal is more luxury than standard.

spusu checked indoor mobile coverage across six major SIM-only networks – SMARTY, VOXI, Sky Mobile, Lebara, GiffGaff and its own – using online postcode checkers. At The Turf Hotel and The Pilchard Inn, spusu outperformed competitors by offering indoor 5G at one site and solid 4G at both.

"For fans of the Premier League Darts and football heading to some of the UK’s most scenic pubs, knowing whether they’ll have signal is crucial," said Christian Banhans, UK Managing Director of spusu. "We understand the frustration of not being able to share moments or catch a match when coverage drops."

While only half the networks offered any 5G at these remote locations, spusu led the field by providing 5G at three of the eight pubs surveyed and receiving top marks for indoor coverage at one.

Closer to home, Exeter’s Turf Hotel earned praise for its indoor 4G connectivity. The waterside pub, only accessible by foot or boat, might be remote – but thanks to the right network, you can still stream the second half or post that sunset pint.

Similarly, the historic Pilchard Inn, perched on Burgh Island and cut off at high tide, scored well for spusu’s coverage. That’s good news for anyone checking match scores while waiting for the sea tractor.

The research offers reassurance to visitors heading off the beaten path: with the right provider, you can still stay connected, even when the phone signal usually disappears with the bar staff.