Area Code 1481 – St Peter Port & Guernsey Area
The phone area code for St Peter Port & Guernsey Area is 1481 (international format +44 1481). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction
The +44 1481 area code is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a Crown Dependency located in the English Channel. It serves the entire island of Guernsey, including its capital, St Peter Port, and other parishes such as St Sampson, Vale, Castel, and St Martin. The code is also used for the inhabited islands of Herm and Jethou, which are part of the Bailiwick. Guernsey operates its own telecommunications regulatory framework under the Office of the Utility Regulator (OUR), but it remains integrated with the UK's national numbering plan, using the +44 country code followed by the 1481 NDC.
Dialing Formats and Caller Instructions
For local callers within Guernsey, the area code is typically omitted, and calls are made using the seven-digit local subscriber number. However, from the UK mainland, callers must dial the trunk prefix 0 followed by 1481 and then the local number (e.g., 01481 123456). International callers from outside the UK should dial the international access prefix (00 or +) followed by 44, then 1481, and the local number (e.g., +44 1481 123456). It is important to note that Guernsey numbers are not part of the UK's Ofcom numbering scheme, but they are reachable via the UK country code due to a special agreement. There is no separate country code for Guernsey, and the island does not use the +44 (0)1481 format when dialing from abroad; the leading 0 is dropped.
Numbering and Overlay Considerations
Guernsey's local numbers are seven digits long, with the first digit often indicating the service type. For instance, numbers starting with 2 are typically fixed-line services, while mobile numbers begin with 7 (e.g., 07781 for mobile). There are no overlay codes in Guernsey; the 1481 NDC is the sole geographic code for the island. The numbering capacity is sufficient for the population of approximately 63,000, and number portability is available, allowing users to retain their numbers when switching providers.
Practical Guidance for Callers
When calling Guernsey from abroad, always use the +44 country code and omit the leading 0 of the area code. For example, to call a St Peter Port landline, dial +44 1481 followed by the seven-digit number. Calls from the UK to Guernsey are typically charged at UK national rates, but some providers may treat them as international calls. It is advisable to check with your telecom operator for specific tariffs. For emergency services, dial 112 or 999, which are free from any phone in Guernsey.