A survey of 250 farmers has revealed that unreliable internet connectivity is hindering the adoption of essential technologies on British farms.

The UK-wide study found that while 60 per cent of farmers consider internet connectivity crucial for daily operations, 8% still have no internet access at all.

The report raises concerns that inadequate broadband is preventing the use of emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and real-time monitoring.

The survey, commissioned by full fibre infrastructure provider CityFibre and conducted by Censuswide, also highlighted the social impacts of poor connectivity.

Many farmers reported feeling isolated from their local communities, and 90% said they avoid going online during peak hours to prevent household conflicts over internet use.

This has particularly affected access to online education and leisure for farm families.

While 59% of respondents expect their use of technology to increase over the next five years, 42% cited slow internet as a major barrier to adoption, second only to equipment costs (50%).

For farms already connected to full fibre broadband, nearly half reported access to previously unavailable precision farming technologies as the greatest benefit.

Others noted improved efficiency (37%), diversification opportunities (33%), and better access to admin tools (32%).

CEO of CityFibre, Greg Mesch said: "Farmers need access to the cream of the crop when it comes to connectivity, if we are going to reap the full economic and technological benefits of Britain’s farms.

"Government initiatives such as Project Gigabit are helping to bring faster internet access to rural and harder-to-reach communities and we know the difference that full fibre makes."

The findings come as the UK government rolls out its Project Gigabit initiative to extend high-speed broadband to underserved rural areas.

CityFibre has been awarded nine Project Gigabit contracts worth £865 million in subsidies to connect over 500,000 hard-to-reach premises.

Yorkshire-based farmer Mark Ullyott added: "Strong internet connectivity is essential for modern-day farming – not just optional... We simply wouldn’t be able to run the business without it."

NFU vice president Rachel Hallos echoed the concerns, warning: "Lack of connectivity not only impacts the day-to-day operations of rural businesses but also the safety of our workforce.

"Better internet access can unlock greater productivity, growth and investment into the rural economy."