Going to call the UK? Whether calling family, friends, or colleagues, you need to know how to call the right way. If you have questions on how to call the United Kingdom, this guide will help answer them.
The UK International Calling Code
If you are calling the UK from a number outside of the UK, you'll need to use your country's international code.
+44
This code is employed throughout the world and would be added to each international call to the UK.
Understanding UK Phone Number Structure
Most UK telephone numbers are 9 to 10 digits long. It comprises a region code (or an STD code) and the local number. Area codes can vary from 3, 4 and 5 digits.
In the UK, phone numbers are regulated by the Office of Communications, or Ofcom numbering ranges are managed on a national basis and comprise, for example, 01 geographical area codes, or 070 non-geographic personal numbering.
Essential Dialing Prefixes Explained
You'll encounter the following key prefixes when placing calls to or within the UK:
0 - Before dialling other UK regions when making calls from within the UK directly into the region.
00 - Trunk code when calling overseas from the UK
05 - Reserved for businesses and VoIP services
07 - Mobile phone numbers
09 - Premium rate services
Major UK Area Codes
Here are area codes for Britain's largest cities and regions:
City/Region Area Code
London 020
Birmingham 0121
Manchester 0161
Glasgow 0141
Liverpool 0151
Leeds 0113
Cardiff 029
Northern Ireland 028
Bristol 0117
Edinburgh 0131
How to Dial: Step-by-Step Examples
Calling within the UK
When calling in country, the format is: 0 [area code] - [local number]
Example: 020 1234 5678
Calling the UK from abroad
Type like this: [Your country exit code] - 44 - [area code minus 0] - [local number]
For example in the USA: 011-44-20-1234-5678
Important: When calling internationally, the area code has no leading zero.
Troubleshooting Failed Calls
If you experience failed calls, troubleshoot these common issues:
Ensure you are using the correct international dialing prefix for your country
Trunk code included: Don't forget to dial the '0' when calling from outside the country
Receiver's plan restrictions: Some UK phone plans do not allow international calls
VoIP issues: If using a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP), the call may need to be made differently.
International rates: It costs money for both parties, and some users may let the call go unanswered.
Alternative Communication Methods
If you are unable to make traditional calls, try other options such as WhatsApp, Skype or Viber. They function well in the UK where a good internet connection is readily available.
UK Calling Features
Voicemail
Voicemail is included as standard in most phone packages in the UK, and we can also easily re-record our greetings.
Final Tips for Calling the UK
Check and double-check the complete number format you are trying to call, then verify the area code is accurate. The time zone issue is also there - the UK operates on GMT/BST and could be anything up to 8 hours ahead or behind where you are.
Armed with this guide now, you're no longer ever going to have a problem reaching anyone in the UK. Whether it's a friendly catch-up or a sensitive business call, good dialing makes sure that your conversation starts off on the best foot.