Royal mail numbers

You're referring to the Royal Mail's postal codes in the United Kingdom!

Royal Mail uses a system of postal codes, also known as postcodes, to help sort and deliver mail efficiently. Here's a breakdown of the format and some interesting facts:

Format:

A Royal Mail postcode typically consists of two parts:

1. Outward code (also known as the "inward code"): This is the first part of the postcode, usually 1-2 letters followed by 1-2 numbers (e.g., "SW1A").
2. Inward code (also known as the "outward code"): This is the second part of the postcode, usually 1-2 letters followed by 1-2 numbers (e.g., "1AA").

Examples:

• SW1A 1AA (London, Westminster)
• EC2A 4DU (London, Shoreditch)
• M1 1BE (Manchester, City Centre)

Interesting facts:

• The first postcode was introduced in 1857, and it was a simple system of letters and numbers to help sort mail.
• The modern postcode system was introduced in 1959, with the first postcodes being assigned in 1965.
• There are over 1.8 million postcodes in the UK, covering around 29 million addresses.
• Postcodes are used not only for mail delivery but also for other purposes, such as:
  • Emergency services (e.g., ambulances, fire brigades)
  • Utility companies (e.g., electricity, water)
  • Insurance companies
  • Online services (e.g., online shopping, food delivery)

I hope that helps!