Last Updated on March 23, 2025
An 020 area is, in simple terms, the telephone prefix covering the London area.
Previous to 2000, the London prefix area codes were 0171 and 0181. When the city was unified in 2000, these numbers were replaced with a 020 area code to cover the whole city.
What is a 020 area code?
An area code is prefixed to a telephone number to allow telephone providers to understand where a call is coming from or going to.
When the old fibre and copper network was the only way of directing calls, those calls would be physically directed via telephone exchanges, and this would allow the network to direct them correctly.
020 is simply the prefix for the London and central London area.
020 area code map
Some people mistakenly assume that certain prefixes are attached to certain areas of London.
Here’s a map that shows the area that 020 covers:
London 020 phone numbers
There are a variety of 020 prefixes that exist for London, for example, 0203 and 0208. However, they all represent the London area.
This dialling code covers all of the Greater London area and has done so since 2000.
How does a 020 number work?
Previously, on the old copper wire and fibre network, calls would need to be physically directed to the correct location, and a way to do this was prefixed area codes, which would allow the automated switching and exchange systems to know where the call was heading or coming from.
These days, with the invention of the Internet and VoIP digital calling, that’s no longer necessary, and calls are mainly transmitted over the Internet instead.
The area codes have stayed as there are still services and businesses that use the old network, but a 020 number works exactly as it always has.
Are 020 numbers free to call?
020 numbers aren’t necessarily free.
However, they’re charged as local rate numbers, which means if you have an inclusive call package with your phone provider, then it’s highly likely that these calls will be included within your bundle.
Do companies in the UK use 020 numbers?
Yes, many companies in the UK use the 020 prefix for their business phone number
How to get a 020 business number – FREE 7-day trial
With Air Landline, it’s incredibly easy to get yourself a virtual London business phone number with the 020 area code, and it can be done in under 3 minutes and includes a 7-day free trial.
After that, it’s just £9.99 + VAT with a 30-day money-back guarantee and no long-term contract!
Select your area code
We provide phone numbers beginning with the 020 area code, but we also offer area codes from all over the UK, including national 0330 numbers.
Simply select the one of your choice, and we’ll generate a virtual landline number.
Provide your details
All we need to get you started is your email address and a phone number where you’d like to divert your calls.
You’ll receive your new virtual number shortly!
Once you’ve selected the desired area and provided your email address and the number to which you want to divert your calls, that’s it! You’re ready to get started!
We’ll email you your new VoIP phone number in the next few minutes.
Can I get a 020 London number even if I don’t live in London?
Yes, absolutely, one of the major advantages of modern VoIP technology is that you can get a 020 London number regardless of where you’re physically located in the UK.
Virtual phone numbers like those offered by Air Landline aren’t tied to physical locations or exchanges as in the past.
This means a business based in Manchester, Edinburgh, or even rural Cornwall can project a London presence using a 020 number.
Calls can be routed to your mobile phone, office landline, or call-handling service.
This flexibility allows businesses from across the country to benefit from the prestigious London area code without the need to maintain a physical London office.
Benefits of using a 020 number for your business
Using a 020 London number for your business offers numerous advantages that can help your company appear more established and professional, regardless of your actual location.
- Professional image – London numbers can convey a certain prestige and give the impression of an established business in the UK’s financial and commercial centre
- Wider customer reach – A London presence makes your business appear more accessible to London-based clients and customers
- Competitive advantage – Set yourself apart from competitors who may only use mobile or local numbers from less recognised areas
- Improved customer trust – Many consumers are more likely to call a business with a recognisable geographic number than one with a mobile or premium rate number
- Cost-effectiveness – Virtual 020 numbers are significantly cheaper than maintaining a physical London office space
- Complete flexibility – Route calls to any device, set up call forwarding, or manage calls via a virtual receptionist
- Better marketing response – London numbers typically achieve higher response rates in advertisements and marketing materials
- Included in call packages – Most customers can call 020 numbers at no additional cost if they have inclusive minutes
List of other 020 business numbers
- 0208
- 0204
- 0203
- 0201
- 0207
- and much more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:
Summary – 020 area code
020 prefix area codes cover the London area, and previously, you’d need to be located physically in London to obtain these; however, with the advent of VoIP technology, anybody in the UK can have one of these numbers.
Many businesses choose to get a 020 number due to the prestige of a London number or because they require a London presence.
Air Landline can generate you a 020 number in under 3 minutes and offer a completely free 7-day trial with a subscription of £9.99 + VAT after that, which has no long-term contract and has a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.