Regional differences in HIV testing behaviour are not new and we are among those who have previously reported on such, particularly between the large urban centres of the UK 27, 28, 29. When compared with the Glasgow/Edinburgh survey, we found evidence of higher testing frequency in the Scotland‐wide online survey and lower frequency in the London survey. This was the case despite higher rates of recent testing in the Glasgow/Edinburgh and London samples, demonstrating the limitations of the recency measure and the different survey methods and sample characteristics. However, testing as a result of a perceived risk event was higher in the London survey. While between‐survey differences should be treated with caution, they suggest the need to consider regional differences in the roll‐out, uptake and potential impact of HIV testing interventions. For example, the promotion of frequent, regular testing was a particular focus of Scottish HIV prevention efforts (particularly on‐scene) 30, which could account for the higher levels of this behaviour. However, it is also possible that the variations reflect the demographic and behavioural differences evident between the samples.