8 Simple Steps to Call London from Anywhere

Calling London might seem like a daunting task, but it is actually quite simple. The process is relatively straightforward and with just a few simple steps, you can be connected to anyone in London in no time. We’ll start by covering the basics, such as what you need to know about dialing codes and area codes. Then, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a call to London from anywhere in the world. Finally, we’ll provide some additional tips and tricks to make sure that your call is crystal clear and free of any problems.

To call London from outside the United Kingdom, you need to know the country code and the city code. The country code for the United Kingdom is 44. The city code for London is 20. Once you have these two codes, you can start dialing the phone number. For example, if you want to call a landline in London, you would dial 011 44 20 1234567. If you want to call a mobile phone in London, you would dial 011 44 791234567. Calls to the United Kingdom will incur international call charges, so it is important to check with your service provider for the cost before making a call.

Here are some additional tips for making a call to London: When dialing the phone number, you do not need to include the leading zero. If you are calling from a mobile phone, you may need to add the exit code for your country. If you are having trouble connecting, you can try using a different phone line or calling at a different time of day. With these simple steps, you can easily make a call to London from anywhere in the world.

Selecting the Correct Country Code

When making a phone call from abroad to London, it is crucial to select the correct country code for the United Kingdom. This code acts as a gateway that connects you to the United Kingdom’s telephone network, ensuring your call is routed to the intended destination.

The country code for the United Kingdom is +44. This code should be entered before the local phone number you wish to call in London. For instance, if you want to call a landline number in the Central London area, which has the area code 020, you would need to dial:

+44 20 [remainder of the local phone number]

Remember, the leading zero in the local area code should be omitted when dialing from abroad.

Country	Country Code
United Kingdom	+44

Dialing the City Code for London

To call London, you must first dial the country code for the United Kingdom, which is 44. Once you have dialed the country code, you must then dial the city code for London. The city code for London is 20.

Dialing the City Code from a Mobile Phone

If you are dialing the city code from a mobile phone, you must first dial the international prefix for your country. The international prefix for the United States is 011, so to dial the city code for London from a mobile phone in the United States, you would dial 011 44 20.

Dialing the City Code from a Landline

If you are dialing the city code from a landline, you must first dial the international access code for your country. The international access code for the United States is 011, so to dial the city code for London from a landline in the United States, you would dial 011 44 20.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for dialing the city code for London:

From	Dial
Mobile Phone (US)	011 44 20
Landline (US)	011 44 20

Entering the Local Phone Number

After entering the country code for the United Kingdom (+44), you’ll need to enter the local phone number. The local phone number consists of an area code followed by a seven-digit subscriber number.

The area code is usually a single digit, but can be up to four digits long. It identifies the geographic region within the United Kingdom.

The subscriber number is the unique identifier for the specific phone line you’re calling. It’s typically a seven-digit number, but can be shorter or longer depending on the carrier.

When entering the local phone number, it’s important to omit any leading zeros from the area code.

Example

To call a phone number in London with the area code 020, you would enter it as follows:

Step 1	Step 2	Step 3
Enter the country code (+44)	Enter the area code (020)	Enter the subscriber number (1234567)
		Dial: +44 20 1234567

Calling via Mobile Phone

To call London from a mobile phone, you will need to dial the following:

1. International Dialing Code

First, dial the international dialing code for the United Kingdom, which is +44.

2. Area Code

Next, dial the area code for London, which is 020.

3. Local Number

Finally, dial the local number for the person or business you are calling.

4. Complete Number

Putting it all together, the complete number you will dial will look like this:

Mobile Phone Number	Example
International Dialing Code	+44
Area Code	020
Local Number	12345678
Complete Number	+44 020 12345678

5. Roaming Charges

It is important to be aware that roaming charges may apply when calling from a mobile phone outside of your home country. These charges can vary depending on your mobile phone plan and the country you are calling from. To avoid unexpected charges, check with your mobile phone provider before making international calls.

Employing Skype or VoIP Services

Skype and other VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls. Here’s how to use them to call London:

1. Install Skype or a VoIP App

Download and install Skype or a VoIP app like WhatsApp, Viber, or Messenger. These apps connect you with others over the internet, eliminating the need for a traditional phone line.

2. Create an Account

Create a free account with the VoIP service. You may need to provide your email address, phone number, and a username.

3. Add London Contacts

Locate your London contacts using their phone numbers or email addresses. Add them to your Skype or VoIP service contact list.

4. Dial London Numbers

To call a London landline, dial the international prefix +44 followed by the area code and the subscriber number. For example, to call a London landline with area code 020, you would dial +44 20 [subscriber number].

For mobile numbers, dial +44 followed by the mobile number without the leading zero. For instance, to call a London mobile number 07812 345678, you would dial +44 7812 345678.

5. Set Up a Calling Plan

If you plan on making frequent calls to London, consider purchasing a calling plan offered by your VoIP service. These plans typically offer a certain amount of minutes per month at a discounted rate.

6. International Calling Rates

VoIP services often offer highly competitive international calling rates. However, it’s crucial to check the rates specific to London before making a call. The table below provides an example of calling rates:

Destination	Per-Minute Rate
London Landline	0.05 USD
London Mobile	0.07 USD

Note: Rates may vary depending on the VoIP service and your subscription plan. Always check with your provider before making a call.

Utilizing an International Calling Plan

An international calling plan is a service provided by phone companies that allows you to make calls to other countries at discounted rates. There are many different international calling plans available, each with its own set of features and benefits. When choosing an international calling plan, it’s important to consider your calling habits and needs.

To use an international calling plan, you need to sign up with a provider. The provider will give you a special phone number that you will use to make international calls. When you call this number, you will be connected to the international operator, who will then connect you to the number you are calling.

There are many different international calling plans available, so it’s important to compare your options before signing up with a provider. Be sure to consider the following factors:

Coverage: Make sure the plan covers the countries you need to call.
Rates: Compare the rates of different plans to find one that fits your budget.
Features: Some plans offer additional features, such as call forwarding and voicemail, that can be useful for international callers.

Once you’ve chosen an international calling plan, you can start making calls to other countries. To make a call, simply dial the special phone number provided by your provider, followed by the country code and the phone number you are calling.

Here is a table that summarizes the key steps for making an international call using a calling plan:

Step	Description
1	Sign up for an international calling plan with a provider.
2	Get a special phone number from the provider.
3	Dial the special phone number, followed by the country code and phone number you are calling.

Accessing a Public Payphone

Public payphones in London are operated by BT. They can be found in various locations, such as train stations, telephone boxes, and public areas. Here are the steps on how to use a public payphone in London:

Locate a payphone: Look for a telephone box or a payphone sign in public areas.
Check the payphone’s condition: Ensure the payphone is in working order. Check for any damage or if the handset is missing.
Insert payment: Most payphones accept coins, cards, or phone cards. Check the payment options available on the payphone.
Dial the number: Enter the phone number you want to call. You can dial 020 for local numbers or 0 followed by the area code for national numbers.
Lift the handset: After dialing the number, lift the handset to connect to the call.
Speak: Talk into the handset after it connects to the recipient.
End the call: To disconnect the call, hang up the handset.
Retrieve payment: If you used a phone card, retrieve it after the call. If you used coins or a card, the payphone will not return them.

Tips for Using a Public Payphone

Have exact change or a phone card ready for payment.

Be aware of your surroundings and stay safe while using a payphone.

If you encounter any issues with the payphone, report it to BT by calling 0800 432 432.

Payphone Costs

Call Type	Cost
Local calls	20p per minute
National calls	30p to 60p per minute
International calls	Varies depending on the country

Leveraging WhatsApp or Messenger

With the internet, there are a myriad services allowing free communication worldwide. WhatsApp and Messenger are two globally popular applications. Both offer text, video, and even voice calls to any user on the same platform. To call London through either app, ensure you have a stable internet connection, an existing account, and the recipient’s contact information registered with the service.

In the app, search for the contact you wish to call, tap their avatar, and select the voice call option. The call will connect as long as the recipient is online and has the application installed.

9. Calling Landlines or Mobile Numbers

	WhatsApp	Messenger
Landline Calls	Not available	Not available
Mobile Calls	Requires paid subscription	Requires paid subscription

WhatsApp and Messenger do not support direct calls to landlines. For mobile calls, you’ll need a paid subscription to either service. Before using these options, consider the charges and verify if the recipient’s number is eligible for calls.

Exploring Other Communication Platforms

In today’s digital age, there are numerous ways to stay connected with loved ones in London without making traditional phone calls. Here’s a look at some of the most popular alternatives:

1. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

VoIP allows you to make calls through an internet connection. This option can be more cost-effective than traditional phone calls, especially if you’re calling internationally. Popular VoIP providers include Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp.

2. Instant Messaging

Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal provide instant messaging services that allow you to send text, voice, and video messages for free. They also offer group chat features and file sharing capabilities.

3. Social Media

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter all offer video and voice calling features. While these platforms are primarily used for social networking, they can be a convenient way to stay in touch with friends and family in London.

4. Email

Email remains a reliable and cost-free way to communicate. It’s especially useful for sending longer messages or sharing documents.

5. Video Conferencing

Platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams allow you to have video calls with multiple participants at once. This option is ideal for business meetings or catching up with family members.

6. Text Messaging (SMS)

SMS is still a popular way to send quick messages. However, it can be more expensive than VoIP or instant messaging.

7. Fax

Fax is a reliable and secure way to send documents. While it’s not as common as it used to be, it’s still used in some industries.

8. Telex

Telex is a text-based communication system that’s primarily used by businesses and governments for sending urgent messages.

9. Mobile Apps with Calling Features

Many mobile apps, such as Facebook Messenger and Google Hangouts, allow you to make calls directly from the app.

10. Phone Cards

Phone cards allow you to make calls using prepaid minutes. This option can be more cost-effective than using your mobile phone or a VoIP provider, but it’s not as convenient as other methods.

Communication Platform	Cost	Convenience
VoIP	Low	High
Instant Messaging	Free	High
Social Media	Free	Medium
Email	Free	Low
Video Conferencing	Free (basic) / Paid (advanced)	High
Text Messaging (SMS)	Varies (per message)	High
Fax	Varies (per page)	Low
Telex	Varies (per minute)	Low
Mobile Apps with Calling Features	Free (with data plan)	High
Phone Cards	Varies (per minute)	Low

How to Call London

Calling London from the United States is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to dial the exit code for the United States, which is 011. Next, you will need to dial the country code for the United Kingdom, which is 44. Finally, you will need to dial the area code for London, which is 20. Once you have dialed these codes, you will need to dial the local phone number in London that you wish to call.

For example, to call the number 123-4567 in London, you would dial 011-44-20-123-4567.