Kev,
No, it doesn't mean that he didn't serve abroad. British units were serving all over the Empire on garrison duties and for most of the time were not on active service. You would need to see his service papers (if they survive) to find out where he served. It is possible that he received the Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. I have an ALSGC Medal to a soldier who served in India, Bermuda, Canada, Malta, Ireland but did not see any active service. Another to a man who did his entire service at the Regimental Depot in Bristol.
Steve
