All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
First impressions count, and your house number is the punctuation mark on your front door. It’s not just a series of digits; it’s a tiny billboard that helps guests, delivery drivers, emergency services and even potential buyers find you fast. Good house numbers say “I care about my home,” while poor, faded or tiny numbers can make your property look neglected. Think of house numbers as a front-yard handshake — friendly, clear and confident.
If you’re hunting for house numbers in the UK, search phrases like “house numbers UK,” “outdoor house numbers,” “modern house numbers,” and “illuminated house numbers” will get you far. But don’t stop at the keyword — look at material, finish, visibility and fixing method. For example, if you want numbers that are visible at night, check whether they’re backlit or compatible with external lighting. And if you’re on a narrow street, larger digits — think 4 in to 6 in tall — make a big difference.
The material you choose determines longevity, style and price. From classic brass to weather-resistant stainless steel, each option has its strengths. Below you’ll find quick, practical notes on common materials so you can match appearance with performance.
Brass offers a timeless, premium look with warm tones that age gracefully. Polished brass looks smart on period properties, while lacquered brass keeps the shine longer. Keep in mind that unlacquered brass will patinate over time, which many people like — it’s the visual equivalent of character lines on a well-traveled face.
Stainless steel is modern, tough and low-maintenance. It resists rust and works particularly well on contemporary builds, brick, and painted surfaces. If you live near the coast, choose a marine-grade finish to ward off salt air corrosion — it’ll save you grief down the road.
Acrylic and resin house numbers are lightweight and come in bold colors and shapes. They won’t dent like metal, and they’re often cheaper, but they can fade or crack in extreme cold if they’re lower quality. They’re a great choice when you want a splash of color or a fun, modern look.
Powder-coated or painted numbers let you match a specific color palette and add a protective layer against the weather. These finishes are versatile — bright white numbers on dark brick create sharp contrast, while matte black gives a minimalist vibe. Just choose a coating rated for exterior use.
There are plenty of places to buy house numbers in the UK, each with its own strengths. Below I outline well-known retailers and platforms that stock a broad range, from budget to bespoke. These are good starting points whether you want standard digits or something design-led.
B&Q is a staple for practical homeowners. You’ll find a wide selection of metal, plastic and brass numbers in-store and online, usually at reasonable prices. B&Q often stocks matching letters and mounting kits, which is handy when you want consistent hardware or are tackling a quick update yourself.
Wickes offers robust, builder-friendly options — think stainless steel and heavy-duty fixings. If you want numbers that can handle a bit of rough treatment or freeze-thaw cycles, Wickes is a reliable place to shop. Their ranges tend to skew practical and durable rather than decorative.
Screwfix is ideal if you need commercial-grade fittings or illuminated numbers that require electrical installation. They cater to tradespeople, so expect sturdy products and good technical specs. If you plan to hardwire backlighting or install robust anchors, Screwfix is worth a look.
Homebase blends decorative and practical choices, making it a good middle-ground retailer. They often have seasonal deals and a decent variety of finishes. If you want stylish numbers without designer prices, Homebase can be a smart stop on your shopping list.
John Lewis focuses on premium design and quality. Expect well-crafted brass and stainless-steel numbers with elegant fonts and refined finishes. They’re a great option if you want numbers that feel like a thoughtful design choice rather than a quick fix.
Wayfair is an online goldmine for styles you might not find on high-street shelving. From oversized numbers to decorative plaques and illuminated choices, Wayfair covers the full spectrum. Delivery options are flexible, and product reviews help you spot durable picks among the decorative ones.
Etsy is where you head for bespoke, handmade and engraved solutions. If you want a custom font, mirrored finishes, or a reclaimed-wood backing with metal numbers, Etsy sellers can make it. Expect to pay more, but you’ll get unique pieces and often the option to personalize.
The Range offers affordable decorative options, ideal for renters or those refreshing curb appeal on a budget. Their stock includes quirky, colorful numbers and matching plaques. Quality varies, so check product dimensions — numbers around 3 in to 4 in tall are common for small driveways.
Amazon has the biggest variety and narrow price points, from cheap plastic digits to designer stainless-steel sets. The advantage is volume — you’ll see thousands of reviews that help separate the wheat from the chaff. Watch out for listings without clear size or material specs.
eBay is useful if you want bargains, vintage numbers or discontinued styles. You can find reclaimed brass or retro enamel plaques that aren’t available elsewhere. Just check seller ratings and photos closely — condition varies widely with second-hand items.
Visibility is about height, contrast and placement. For normal streets, aim for at least 4 in tall digits for clear visibility from the pavement; on larger properties or busy roads, 6 in to 8 in may be better. Contrast is crucial — light numbers on dark backgrounds or dark numbers on light walls work best. Think of numbers as signposts: if you can’t read them from a short distance, they’re not doing their job.
Illuminated numbers are a favorite if you want 24/7 visibility with a designer edge. You can choose solar-powered LED numbers, backlit acrylic digits, or hardwired stainless-steel sets that glow from behind. Solar options are plug-and-play and simple to install, but hardwired solutions offer steadier light. If you live on a dim street, backlighting is a practical upgrade that looks cinematic at night.
Installing house numbers is often a weekend DIY job if you have basic tools. For masonry, a hammer drill and wall plugs are your friends. For wood or composite doors, short exterior screws usually do the trick. If you want a floating effect, spacers create a shadow gap — it’s a clever way to add depth without expensive materials. Always measure the centre line of your door and mark with a pencil before drilling to keep everything level.
Placement affects readability. Mount numbers at eye level — between 48 in and 60 in from the ground is a common rule of thumb — and avoid cluttered backgrounds like patterned brick. If you have a gate or driveway, consider placing a reflective number or a second set nearer the road so delivery drivers and emergency services can spot you quickly. It’s a small change that pays practical dividends.
Maintenance depends on material: stainless steel needs a wipe with soapy water, brass may need occasional polishing, and painted finishes benefit from UV-resistant sprays. For coastal properties, choose marine-grade materials and check fixings annually — salt air can loosen screws over time. A bit of attention once or twice a year keeps numbers looking new and prevents them from working loose.
If you’re working to a budget, prioritize visibility and material quality over designer fonts. A simple stainless-steel set in the right size will look better and last longer than cheap painted plastic. If you’re investing in a home you’ll keep for years, designer brass or custom-cut steel is worth the extra spend because it becomes part of the home’s identity.
If sustainability matters to you, consider reclaimed metal numbers or ethically sourced wood plaques. Many Etsy makers use reclaimed brass or recondition old signage into attractive house numbers, reducing waste and adding history to your doorstep. Solar-lit numbers are also eco-friendly because they reduce the need for wiring and electricity.
Current trends include oversized single-digit plaques, mixed-material combinations (wood backboard with metal numbers), and minimalist black-on-white schemes. A creative idea is to pair house numbers with a small planter box or feature light — this turns a practical detail into a design statement. Think of your number as the punctuation mark; with the right styling, it becomes a focal point rather than an afterthought.
Before you click purchase, check the size in inches, the fixing method, whether screws are included, and if the finish is rated for exterior use. Look for customer photos and reviews from buyers in similar climates to yours. If the numbers are illuminated, double-check power source and battery life or whether installation requires an electrician. These small checks prevent disappointment and avoid returns.
Here’s a quick checklist: choose material for your climate, pick a size that’s readable from the road, ensure contrast with your wall, decide on lighting, confirm the fixing method, and pick a style that matches your home. If you tick these boxes, you’ll end up with numbers that look intentional, last longer, and make life easier for visitors.
Choosing the right house numbers is a small project with a big payoff. Whether you’re upgrading for curb appeal, accessibility, or safety, the right digits transform your entrance from anonymous to unmistakable. Happy shopping — and enjoy the little splash of personality your new numbers will add to your home.
