Are you living in the UK or planning to visit soon? If so, you may have come across area code 0118. This code is used in a specific region of the country and has various implications, including telecommunications, postal services, and even tourism. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about area code 0118, from its history to its current uses.
What is Area Code 0118?
Area code 0118 is a dialing code used in the UK, specifically in the town of Reading and its surrounding areas. It was first introduced in 1995 as a result of the increasing demand for phone numbers in the region. At the time, the previous code (0734) had reached its limit, and the area required a new code to accommodate the growing population.
How to Use Area Code 0118
If you’re located in the Reading area, you’ll need to dial the 0118 code before the seven-digit phone number when making a call to another local number. If you’re calling from outside the area, you’ll need to include the 0118 code in addition to the UK’s international dialing code (+44). For example, if you’re calling a number in Reading from abroad, you would dial +44 118 XXX XXXX.
The History of Area Code 0118
As mentioned earlier, area code 0118 was first introduced in 1995 to replace the previous code of 0734. The change was necessary due to the rapid growth of the population in Reading and its surrounding areas. The code is now widely used for telecommunications, as well as for postal services and other purposes.
Benefits of Area Code 0118
The implementation of area code 0118 has brought several benefits to the Reading community. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to accommodate the growing population and businesses in the region. The code has also made it easier for people in Reading to communicate with each other, as well as with other areas of the UK and abroad. Additionally, the code has helped promote the Reading area as a tourist destination, making it easier for visitors to navigate the region and access local services.
Area Code 0118 and Tourism
In recent years, area code 0118 has become a popular feature for tourists visiting the Reading area. The code is often used in marketing materials, such as brochures and websites, to promote local businesses and services. Visitors can easily identify the Reading area by its unique code, making it easier to find relevant information and access local amenities.
Common Questions About Area Code 0118
Here are some frequently asked questions about area code 0118:
What other regions in the UK use area codes?
There are many other area codes used throughout the UK, including 020 (London), 0121 (Birmingham), and 0161 (Manchester), to name a few.
Is it possible to change your phone number’s area code?
Yes, it is possible to change your phone number’s area code. However, this process can be complicated and may require you to switch to a different phone provider.
Can you make international calls using area code 0118?
Yes, you can make international calls using area code 0118. However, you will need to include the UK’s international dialing code (+44) in addition to the area code when dialing.
What are some popular tourist attractions in the Reading area?
The Reading area is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Reading Abbey ruins, the Thames Path, and the Museum of English Rural Life.
