Something that I have come across recently, is Press Reader, which you can find a link to on your local library website. I am not sure all local authority libraries offer this service, but basically if they do, you get to read all the daily papers with the exact cost of a library card membership.
The Times and Telegraph are paywall sites if you go direct, but, go through your library website et voila!
Enter your library card number and enjoy.
Even better... You can also read a large number of magazines this way for the same cost!
As for the sites with a proliferation of ads and videos, use Firefox Browser and Adblocker for Firefox and you will find a much more pleasant viewing experience. I am always shocked when I use a pc without these at how bad things can be.