Tenby Residents Report UK's Worst Mobile Signal in 2025, Damaging Local Businesses
Tenby, a prominent seaside town in Pembrokeshire, Wales, faces severe disruption due to exceptionally poor mobile phone signal quality, designated the worst in the UK for 2025 by consumer organisation Which?. The problem intensified following the decommissioning of a local phone mast earlier this year, affecting customers across O2, Vodafone, and Three networks.
Local Economy Hit by Connectivity Blackout
Steven Roberts, a local taxi driver for three years, described Tenby as a "dead zone" for signal, directly impacting his ability to secure bookings and process card payments. He noted that new customers, unfamiliar with the area's connectivity issues, are likely to seek alternative services when he cannot respond promptly. Mr Roberts has resorted to posting on social media, advising clients that his service is "cash only", which presents further difficulties as many visitors do not carry physical currency.
Guy Manning, who operates an art shop in Tenby, echoed these concerns, stating that card payment difficulties and customer frustration have "definitely" resulted in lost sales. He observed that holidaymakers with pre-planned itineraries are often disinclined to return if an initial transaction is hindered by poor signal.
Visit Pembrokeshire's 2024 research indicates that nearly six million people visit the region annually, with Tenby being a prime destination. However, the connectivity issues are prompting some visitors to reconsider future trips. Paul Wiston from Cheshire, a self-employed visitor, expressed his frustration, noting he "can't even get the weather forecast up" and was forced to walk home one evening due to an inability to call a taxi.
Network Providers Address Disruption
O2 acknowledged the "signal issues in Tenby" and apologised, attributing the problem to a decommissioned local mast. They stated that their infrastructure partner, Vodafone, is working to install a replacement, with other local masts optimised to mitigate disruption. Vodafone and Three UK also apologised to affected customers, confirming efforts with their infrastructure partner for a "longer-term solution" and exploring temporary coverage options. EE, not involved in the mast's removal, stated it is "actively looking at ways to enhance connectivity" in the area, including an upgrade to an existing mast in Penally.
Despite the widespread frustration, some visitors reported embracing the lack of signal as an opportunity for a digital detox, seeking "peace and quiet" away from screens.
