A United Kingdom virtual phone number (sometimes called a UK virtual number, virtual landline, or cloud-based number) is a number that isn’t tied to a physical phone line or device. Instead, calls to that number are routed—via the internet—to one or more devices you choose (mobile, VoIP app, etc.).
For businesses, such a number offers flexibility, professionalism, and local presence—even if your team is distributed. Let’s dig into how it works, its benefits, considerations, and how Digi Toolbox can help you set up and manage one.
How United Kingdom Virtual Phone Numbers Work
- Calls to the virtual number are received via a cloud telephony system (often using VoIP / SIP).
- You configure call routing: during business hours, ring your office; after hours, forward to mobile or voicemail.
- Some services allow multiple numbers (local, national, toll‑free) to route into one system.
- You may “port” (transfer) your current number into the virtual system so you don’t lose contacts.
- You’ll often access features like voicemail‑to‑email, auto attendants, call recording, and call analytics.
Key Benefits of a United Kingdom Virtual Phone Number
- Professional Local Presence
Even if you’re not physically in a UK city, a UK number helps you appear local to customers. - Cost Savings & Efficiency
Lower call costs (especially international), no need for traditional lines or hardware. - Flexibility & Remote Work Support
Your team can take calls from anywhere—office, home, on the road—using the same number. - Access to Advanced Features
Auto attendants, call routing, voicemail forwarding, call recording, analytics, multiple device support. - Scalability & Global Reach
Easily add numbers (UK local, national, international) as your business expands without new infrastructure. - Future‑Proofing
With the upcoming shutdown of PSTN/ISDN networks in the UK (around 2027), virtual phone systems align with future telecom infrastructure. - Security & Privacy Layer
It keeps your personal or mobile number private by separating business and private communications.
Things to Consider / Potential Limitations
- Internet dependency: Quality of calls depends on stable internet.
- Number type / prefix costs: Some non-geographic UK prefixes have service charges or premium call rates.
- Call routing complexity: Misconfigured routing may cause delays or dropped calls.
- Porting constraints: Porting certain number types may involve regulations or delays.
- Support & redundancy: Ensuring fallback if your system or internet fails.
How Digi Toolbox Can Help with Your United Kingdom Virtual Phone Number
As part of our telephony services, we can assist you with:
- Selecting the right United Kingdom virtual phone number types (local, national, non-geographic)
- Configuring call routing, forwarding, and business hours behaviour
- Integrating with your CRM or business apps
- Setting up voicemail, auto attendants, call recording, analytics
- Porting your existing numbers into the system
- Managing support and maintenance, ensuring uptime and reliability
We aim to provide a seamless, professional calling experience that enhances your business image and operational flexibility.
Would you like to find out more about United Kingdom virtual phone numbers?
Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements or book a meeting with a specialist at a time that works for you.
Phone: 01489 297070
Email: hello@digitoolbox.com
Book a Meeting with a Specialist
FAQs About United Kingdom Virtual Phone Numbers
Q: Can I keep my current phone number?
A: Yes — many services support number porting so clients calling your old number are seamlessly redirected. This ensures business continuity and avoids any disruption to customer communication.
Q: Which number types are valid in the UK?
A: You can choose geographic local numbers (01/02 prefixes), non-geographic numbers (03, 0800, 084, etc.) or even international numbers. This flexibility allows businesses to establish a presence in specific regions or nationally.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: It depends on the type of number (local, non-geographic, toll-free), call volume, features, and provider. Many virtual plans start at modest monthly fees and scale as your requirements grow.
Q: Will call quality suffer?
A: Not necessarily — with a good internet connection and provider, call quality can be high, though unstable connection may degrade it. Using a reliable broadband service is essential for maintaining clear communication.
Q: Can I use multiple devices?
A: Yes — one virtual number can ring multiple devices (mobile, VoIP, desktop softphone) simultaneously or in sequence. This makes it easier to stay connected whether you’re in the office or on the go.
