UK area codes: the full list

Every UK geographic dialling code and where it is, built from Ofcom numbering data, last refreshed 2026-07-24. Each code links to a guide covering what calls cost, who issues numbers there, and how to get a number in that area for your business.

02 codes and short city codes

The five 02 codes (London, Southampton and Portsmouth, Coventry, Northern Ireland, Cardiff) and the short 01 city codes, all with 7 or 8-digit local numbers.

All other 01 geographic codes

UK area code questions

How many area codes are there in the UK?

There are around 612 geographic dialling codes in the UK, ranging from short codes with 8-digit local numbers in the biggest cities (020 London, 029 Cardiff, 028 Northern Ireland) to a handful of unusually long codes serving small communities, such as 0159575 for Foula in Shetland. The full set is administered by Ofcom.

What is the difference between 01 and 02 codes?

Nothing that affects the caller. Both are geographic landline ranges charged at the same standard rate. The 02 codes are simply newer, created from 2000 onwards to give big areas more numbers: a shorter code leaves more digits for the local number.

Do I still need to dial the area code?

From a mobile, always. From a landline in the same area you can usually skip it, but in some high-demand areas local dialling has been withdrawn and the full number is always required. Dialling the full number including the code always works, so it is the safe habit.

Can my business have a number in any area code?

Yes. Numbers are no longer tied to physical lines in the area. ONSIM can supply a number in any UK geographic code as a virtual number diverting to any phone from £5 a month, or on a business SIM from £10 a month, wherever your business actually is.

Need a number in one of these areas?

ONSIM supplies numbers in any UK area code: as a virtual number diverting to any phone from £5 a month, or on a business SIM from £10 a month so your mobile answers as the local number. Existing numbers can be ported in.

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