To check whether you are able to receive cable services, all you need to do is use our online cable checker. We will ask for your current postcode or home telephone number.

Using this information, we'll check what the local cable exchange (part of the delivery infrastructure) is in your area, and we'll then be able to tell you if cable services are currently provided there.

Enter your postcode

We'll also be able to tell you the maximum expected internet speeds available in the area.

You do not have to give any personal details such as your name or full address when checking, as the test is performed on an area wide basis only.

If you do not have your current home telephone number to hand, or if you do not wish to type it in, a test can still be performed based on your post code alone, although giving both details will result in a more reliable search, showing the packages available.

I can't get cable? What are my options?

If you can't get cable services in your area, we will inform you of the different alternative options available, allowing you to check the best combination of services to suit your needs.

For example, many people are surprised to learn that BT offers not only telephone services, but also broadband and TV, which can be combined together in a single package. Likewise, Sky offer broadband and telephone in addition to their traditional satellite TV service.

A range of other providers offer combined telephone and broadband packages, which many people will take up along with their own Freeview equipment as another way of receiving all three services.

Our cable postcode checker will let you compare the different services provided by different companies, allowing you to build the best package to suit your needs.

Advantages of cable

Cable is an enormously popular way of receiving media services, including television, telephone and broadband internet. It is estimated that cable provides television services to over one third of UK households, and is even more popular for broadband internet services. This is because cable is delivered via a physical, secure connection, laid down specifically.

The problem with this method of delivery is that it requires cable lines to have already been physically laid down in your area. Cable is the most popular method of television and broadband services in areas where cable is laid down, as customers are able to take advantage of bundles, offering all three services at lower cost when taken at the same time.

Another advantage of cable, is that with all services coming from the same provider, you only have to deal with one company if you want to change or upgrade your package, or if there are service issues affecting the area.

Virgin Media are currently the UK's main cable provider also provide mobile phone services and offer special packages for customers who also take their cable services.

In addition, cable broadband services are 'always on', as they are transmitted via the dedicated cable line, not via an ordinary BT phone line, meaning you don't have to wait for the internet to connect before browsing, and without also being tied down to a time limit.