Where are the most connected areas in the UK, when it comes to digital communications? Kingston upon Hull ranks first, according to new research, with 99.99% full-fibre broadband. This city is followed by Antrim and Newtownabbey, Mid Ulster, Coventry, and Belfast. Areas including Na h-Eileanan Siar, the Shetland Islands, and Orkney Islands have the lowest coverage.
The research also highlights rising interest in smart devices such as smart pet feeders (+55.5%) and multiroom speakers (+45.2%), which rely on strong connectivity.
Being connected is not just about accessing entertainment services. More than a quarter (26%) of people in the UK now work in a hybrid pattern, according to Statista, while 14% work exclusively from home, highlighting the continued shift towards flexible working.
This is based on analysis from the firm Redrow, which identifies the UK areas with the highest levels of full-fibre broadband coverage, drawing on Think Broadband data. The assessment shows where home working and connected living are best supported by digital infrastructure.
The 10 best connected areas
- Kingston upon Hull – 99.99%
- Antrim and Newtownabbey – 97.56%
- Mid Ulster – 97.16%
- Mid and East Antrim – 97.13%
- Lisburn and Castlereagh – 97.13%
- Coventry – 97.07%
- Belfast – 97.07%
- Tameside – 96.99%
- Cannock Chase – 96.98%
- Southend-on-Sea – 96.97%
The 10 worst connected areas are
- Na h-Eileanan Siar – 11.71%
- Shetland Islands – 21.24%
- Orkney Islands – 28.53%
- Harlow – 31.39%
- Perth and Kinross – 36.32%
- Warwick – 45.74%
- Winchester – 47.10%
- Aberdeenshire – 49.53%
- Redditch – 50.34%
- Enfield – 54.92%
Alongside connectivity rankings, the firm analysed Google search data to identify smart home trends.
The devices driving smart living
Google search data uncovers which devices are popular right now, and which are growing in demand.
- Smart dehumidifiers – 2,159,860
- Smart TVs – 790,900
- Robot vacuums – 729,900
- Smart air purifiers – 669,470
- Smart humidifiers – 655,850
People are prioritising comfort and convenience, searching for devices which promote cleaner air, automated cleaning and entertainment that fits their lifestyle.
Emerging trends are:
- Smart pet feeders (+55.56%)
- Multiroom speakers (+45.20%)
- Smart sprinklers (+36.54%)
- Smart curtain controllers (+28.77%)
- Smart microwaves (+26.39%)
The fastest-growing searches point to a shift towards integrated living, with devices that can automate routines and create homes that adapt to daily life.
Understanding these trends remains important as the UK continues to expand full-fibre coverage and build smart-ready homes, connected living is set to become the standard across the country, shaping how people work and relax.
