Upfirst

Get a UK number and a complete AI answering service

Take messages

Capture every enquiry with custom message taking. We'll collect the details you need and send them to you instantly via text or email.

Answer questions

Provide instant answers to frequently asked questions. Train your virtual receptionist once and keep customers informed around the clock.

Illustration of an AI answering service in action, showing a smartphone screen with a caller and chat bubbles where the AI answers calls, books appointments, and collects caller information.

Book appointments

Let callers book appointments on the spot. We can share your online calendar or simply gather their preferred date and time, so you never miss a booking.

Transfer calls

Direct important calls to the right person every time. Upfirst easily transfers calls to you or team members, so urgent matters are always handled.

See all features

UK virtual receptionist

How to set up your answering service in the United Kingdom

Get a local UK virtual receptionist answering every call, day or night. Setup is fast and easy for any small business.

1. Add your information

Tell us about your business and how you’d like your calls handled. You can set call instructions, choose how messages are delivered, and let us know if calls should be transferred, appointments booked, or texts sent.

Upfirst AI receptionist setup screen showing how a real estate agent can add info about showing availability and buyer/seller services.

2. Set the rules

Choose your local UK phone number. Simply pick a number with your area code from our list, or if you need a specific region, our team will help you. In some cases, you may need to share a proof of address or photo ID to register your number.

Call transfer rule setup for a real estate agent, showing how to forward tour requests or property inquiries to a mobile number.

3. Forward your calls

Start receiving calls instantly—24/7. Your AI receptionist will answer every call professionally, and you’ll receive call summaries by text and email so you never miss an opportunity.

AI receptionist greeting an incoming call for Lemon Tree Real Estate, demonstrating 24/7 answering service for realtors.

4. Never miss a call again

Whether it’s a new buyer, seller, or tenant calling, your AI answering service answers 24/7. You’ll get a detailed call summary by text and email so you can follow up fast.

Call summary and transcript of a real estate lead asking about a 3-bedroom home, showing how Upfirst captures buyer inquiries for real estate agents.

Get a UK phone number

What information is needed to get a virtual number in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, phone numbers are regulated to ensure they’re linked to a real, local presence. To activate a UK virtual number, you’ll need to provide a **UK address**. This is required by local regulations to confirm your connection to the country. Once your virtual number is set up, you can easily forward calls from your existing number so Upfirst’s AI receptionist can answer them for you.

key features

Get your UK number and grow your business with an AI receptionist

Our affordable call answering features help small businesses look professional and stay connected—without missing a single opportunity.

24/7 live call answering

Stay connected around the clock. Answer every call and capture leads automatically even when you're busy or out of office.

Bilingual receptionist

Speak to callers in English, Polish, and 90+ other languages. Reach more customers and make every caller feel at home.

Lead capture

Collect lead details the moment they call. Qualify leads and tell us the right questions to ask callers.

Appointment scheduling

Let your realtor virtual receptionist set up showings and appointments. Send calendar links live on the call to interested clients.

Customized scripting

Shape every conversation whether the caller is a seller, buyer, landlords, or even tenants. Customize call handling how you want.

Call forwarding

Forward calls fast to the right person. Set up call routing rules and transfer callers when it matches your criteria.

Emergency dispatching

Handle urgent tenant calls without delay. Dispatch them to the appropriate on-call maintenance worker.

Detailed call summaries

Receive detailed summary of each call, allowing you to follow up effectively. Upfirst also captures a recording and the full transcript, just in case.

United Kingdom answering service FAQs

Have a question that isn't answered here? Get in touch with our team.

How does my business benefit from your answering service?

Our answering service helps UK businesses never miss a call, even outside of office hours or during busy periods. Professional virtual receptionists answer your calls promptly, take messages, and ensure every customer gets a friendly, knowledgeable response. This boosts your reputation, frees up your team to focus on their work, and ensures you capture every sales and support opportunity.

How long does it take to get set up with a local United Kingdom number?

Getting started is quick and easy! We can instantly provide you with a local UK number. All you need is a valid UK address. Once verified, your number is active within minutes and ready to receive calls.

Can I keep my existing business phone number?

Absolutely. You can keep your current UK business number. Simply set up call forwarding to your new virtual number, and our receptionists will handle your calls seamlessly—your customers won’t notice a thing.

Do you offer 24/7 answering coverage?

Yes, our service is available 24/7, 365 days a year—including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays. Your business never has to miss an important call, no matter the time or day.

UK virtual phone numbers with AI answering