3 Best iOS VPNs for UK 2026

How we selected the best iOS VPNs for the UK

Choosing a VPN for iPhone in the UK involves slightly different priorities than in the US. UK users often deal with ISP-level filtering, mobile data throttling during peak hours, and frequent use of public Wi‑Fi on trains, cafés, and shared city networks.

For this list, we focused on iOS VPN apps that behave predictably under UK network conditions, reconnect quickly when switching between Wi‑Fi and 4G/5G, and maintain stable performance without draining battery or requiring constant manual reconnects.

What matters most in an iOS VPN for UK users

On iPhone and iPad, a VPN must cooperate with Apple’s background rules. Poorly optimised apps can drop connections when the screen locks or when you move between underground stations, trains, and street-level networks.

For long-tail searches like “best VPN for iPhone UK public Wi‑Fi”, “fast iOS VPN for London”, or “private VPN for iPad UK”, the fundamentals are the same: stable reconnection, nearby UK servers, and sensible defaults that work without tweaking.

#1 NordVPN

NordVPN is a strong all-round choice for iOS users in the UK because of its consistently stable app behaviour and large number of nearby servers. Whether you are at home, commuting, or travelling within Europe, the app handles network changes smoothly.

Why NordVPN suits UK iOS users

• Reliable UK locations: good performance across England, Scotland, and nearby regions.
• Strong reconnection logic: useful for trains and mobile handovers.
• Balanced feature set: privacy protection without unnecessary complexity.

#2 Surfshark

Surfshark is well suited to UK households with multiple Apple devices. If you have more than one iPhone or iPad, or you share a subscription across family members, Surfshark’s device policy is convenient.

Where Surfshark fits best in the UK

• Good value: one subscription covers many devices.
• Simple interface: easy to use even for non‑technical users.
• Solid speeds: suitable for browsing, video calls, and streaming.

#3 Mullvad

Mullvad appeals to privacy‑conscious users in the UK who prefer minimal data collection and transparent policies. The iOS app avoids account profiling and keeps configuration straightforward.

Why Mullvad is popular with privacy‑focused users

• No personal details required: minimal signup information.
• Flat pricing: no long-term upsells or confusing plans.
• Clear technical approach: trusted among security‑aware users.

Common iOS VPN use cases in the UK

Public Wi‑Fi on trains, cafés, and shared networks

Public Wi‑Fi is widely used across the UK, especially on rail services and in city centres. A VPN encrypts your traffic on these networks, reducing exposure to monitoring or interception.

Privacy from ISPs and network-level filtering

UK internet providers may apply filtering or logging at the network level. A VPN does not make you anonymous, but it limits what your ISP can directly inspect, which is enough for many users who want more control over their browsing privacy.

Travel within Europe and abroad

For UK users travelling to Europe or beyond, a VPN helps protect your iPhone on unfamiliar networks and can preserve access to UK-based services when needed. Stability matters more than peak speed when networks change frequently.

Recommended iOS VPN settings for the UK

Automatic connection on untrusted Wi‑Fi

Enabling auto‑connect ensures your VPN activates whenever you join unknown networks, reducing the chance of accidental unprotected connections.

Kill switch and traffic protection

If available, enable system-level traffic blocking so your iPhone does not briefly expose traffic if the VPN tunnel drops.

FAQ: iOS VPNs for the UK (2026)