Where are all the UK red telephone kiosks?

Source: Hacker News

Introduction

Welcome to the K6 project – a personal adventure to travel the length and breadth of the UK in search of the iconic red telephone kiosks. These kiosks were once ubiquitous before mobile phones became the dominant form of communication.

Why the Kiosks Matter

As public phone usage declines, many kiosks are decommissioned and face removal unless they are adopted and repurposed. Understanding the new purposes they serve helps preserve this piece of British heritage.

Current Uses

During my visits I have encountered a variety of creative adaptations, including:

• Defibrillator stations – providing emergency medical equipment in rural areas.
• Recycling centres – collection points for small items or bottle returns.
• Local book exchanges – “little free libraries” for community sharing.
• Village information guides – housing pamphlets and maps for tourists and residents.

Focus of the Project

In rural Britain, the kiosk’s role tends to be highly local‑centric. The project aims to explore these community‑driven uses in greater detail, both online and offline, by:

• Building a database of kiosk locations, owners, and functions.
• Sharing stories and photographs on social media for a personal look at each kiosk’s history and present use.

The ultimate goal is to document and celebrate the diverse ways these red telephone boxes continue to serve their communities.