// call forwarding vs virtual landline
Call forwarding vs virtual landline
// the short answer
A virtual landline is a phone number — a UK geographic number (like an 020 or 0161 line) that isn’t tied to a physical line. Call forwarding is the routing that sends calls to that number on to your mobile or team. You usually need both, and with LineHQ they come together: pick a virtual landline number and forward it however you like.
These two terms get used interchangeably, but they describe different things. Getting the distinction right helps you buy the right thing.
Last reviewed July 2026
| Virtual landline | Call forwarding | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A UK phone number not tied to a physical line | The routing that sends calls on to another phone |
| What it gives you | A professional local/national number to publish | Calls reaching you wherever you are |
| Works on its own? | Needs routing (e.g. forwarding) to be useful | Needs a number to forward from |
| Typical use | Look established with a local number | Never miss a call while out and about |
| With LineHQ | Choose local, 0800 or 03 | Sequential or simultaneous, time-of-day rules |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between call forwarding and a virtual landline?
A virtual landline is the phone number — a UK geographic number that isn’t attached to a physical line. Call forwarding is the feature that routes calls to that number on to your mobile or another phone. The number is what customers dial; forwarding is how it reaches you.
Do I need both?
Usually yes. A virtual landline without forwarding is just a number with nowhere to ring; forwarding without a dedicated number means giving out your personal mobile. Together they give you a professional line that rings wherever you are — which is what LineHQ provides in one package.
Which should a small business choose?
Most small businesses want both: a virtual landline number to look established, plus call forwarding to route it to their mobile or team. With LineHQ you pick the number and set the forwarding rules in one place, from £4.99/mo.
Can I forward a virtual landline to more than one phone?
Yes. You can forward to several phones and choose whether they ring in sequence or all at once, with a ring time for each and voicemail-to-email fallback if nobody answers.
Try LineHQ
A UK number that rings your existing mobile, with recording, voicemail-to-email and a receptionist. From £4.99/mo, no contract, cancel anytime.