One Northern Ireland county is expected to have the best mobile signal within five years – but one area will continue to face challenges
A fresh analysis of mobile network performance across Northern Ireland has revealed significant disparities in coverage, network choice, and service quality as of 2025. The study underscores clear leaders and areas still requiring more investment in digital infrastructure.
Choose Leisure experts have unearthed the best and worst counties for mobile network coverage across Northern Ireland. For professionals, freelancers, and anyone dependent on connectivity while working remotely, these findings provide essential guidance.
The analysis discovered that Antrim, Down, and Armagh shine with the highest coverage readiness and the broadest range of available networks, perfect for professionals working from home, digital nomads, and business travellers.
Top 10 Northern Irish counties with the best network coverage
Rank
County
Coverage Readiness %
1
Antrim
65.5
2
Down
54.1
3
Armagh
31
4
Tyrone
23.8
5
Derry
14.3
6
Fermanagh
11.3
Leading the pack, Antrim achieved a coverage readiness score of 65.5%, offering one of the most reliable mobile experiences in Northern Ireland. With robust network availability and consistent signal strength across multiple operators, the county provides ideal conditions for remote and hybrid workers based near or around Belfast.
Down (54.1%) and Armagh (31%) are not far behind, reflecting ongoing investment in digital infrastructure and solid regional connectivity across eastern Northern Ireland.
Counties including Tyrone (23.8%) Derry (14.3%), and Fermanagh (11.3%) demonstrate slower advancement, underlining the ongoing requirement for network expansion and rural broadband investment to bridge the digital gap.
The figures reveal the predominance of networks in locations with the highest coverage ratings, whilst rural counties frequently depend on fewer providers. Median scores for each major network suggest consistent quality in coverage across Northern Ireland’s leading regions.
“For anyone working remotely or travelling across the UK, mobile coverage is no longer just a convenience, it’s a lifeline,” said Dave Williams, managing director at Kent motorhome company, Choose Leisure. “Reliable connectivity dictates where people can realistically work, plan routes, and stay productive on the move. Our analysis shows that being connected isn’t only about geography anymore, it’s about being prepared and choosing destinations with the right digital infrastructure.
“What we’re seeing now is a real shift in how people plan their time on the road, they’re thinking about signal strength and data coverage in the same way they’d check fuel levels or travel routes.
“For professionals, freelancers, and digital nomads, the ability to join a video call or send files from a layby or a campsite can define how flexible their lifestyle truly is. Strong network access isn’t just a tech issue; it’s becoming a key factor in how people choose to travel, work, and even where they spend their money.”
Dave offered his top recommendations for maintaining productivity whilst travelling:.
- Check local coverage before you travel – Use network coverage maps or Ofcom’s checker to confirm signal strength at your destination.
- Carry a second SIM or mobile hotspot – Different networks perform better in different regions; having a backup avoids downtime.
- Download key files offline – Don’t rely entirely on cloud access, store important documents locally before travelling.
- Use Wi-Fi calling and tethering smartly – These features can keep you online when mobile data dips.
- Consider mobile boosters or routers – Especially useful for motorhome users or those staying in rural areas.
- Plan calls around coverage zones – Schedule meetings for times or places where you know you’ll have a strong signal.
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