Is it possible to do a google map lookup using the google maps API from a UK postcode? I know you can search by UK postcode on their website, but this converts to lat / long. I don't have access to the PAF database to be able to convert to long / lat.

An example:

Users have an item to sell. One of the details of that item is a postcode, where the user / item is located. When the items are displayed on the front end of the website, there needs to be a google map of the items location generated using the postcode.

If this is possible, how do I do it?

You can do it purely though Google maps.

I did it for a client earlier this year and have just had to do a few modifications. I also did some direction-grabbing. It's all pretty simple but best viewed in context.

Take a look at the source of the page I made.