spinning wheel

Does this happen in all WiFi networks? Do other apps that require the internet work OK?

Start with clearing the cache in Safari, close Safari and restart your iPad. Settings>Safari>Clear History and Website Data clears the cache.

Since you didn’t list which iPad model you have, see this for force closing apps.

How to force an app to close on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

After you force close Safari, restart your iPad and see if that helps.

I agree, that it would be ridiculous to have to do that all the time, but I had no idea what you had already tried, so I suggested that.

Something else that you could try is to reset network settings. When you do that, you have to reenter all WiFi network passwords, but it might help. Settings>General>Reset>Reset Network Settings.

I’m sure you realize this, but trying to pinpoint something like this is like playing pin the tail on the donkey. You’re taking a shot in the dark and hoping for the best. The definite fix isn’t always right there to apply.