When someone searches "pubs near me" or "best pub in [your town]", Google shows a map with three businesses underneath. This is the Google Map Pack — and getting your pub into those three slots can transform your business.
of all clicks on local search results go to the Map Pack — more than organic results or ads combined
What Is the Google Map Pack?
The Map Pack (also called the Local Pack or 3-Pack) is the box that appears at the top of Google search results for local queries. It shows a map and three business listings with their name, rating, address, hours, and a link to directions.
The 3 Ranking Factors Google Uses
Google has confirmed that three main factors determine Map Pack rankings. Understanding these helps you focus your efforts where they'll have the most impact.
Relevance
How well your profile matches what the searcher is looking for. If someone searches "gastropub with Sunday roast", Google checks whether your profile mentions these things.
Action: Make sure your Google Business Profile includes all relevant categories, services, and keywords in your description.
Distance
How close your pub is to the searcher or the location they specified. You can't change your location, but you can ensure your address is accurate and your service area is properly defined.
Prominence
How well-known and trusted your business is online. This includes reviews, citations (mentions on other websites), links, and overall web presence.
Action: This is where you can make the biggest difference. Build reviews, get listed in directories, and improve your local SEO.
Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is the foundation of Map Pack success. A fully optimised profile signals to Google that you're a legitimate, active business worth showing to searchers.
Profile Optimisation Checklist
- Complete every single field in your profile
- Add your primary category (Pub) and secondary categories
- Write a keyword-rich business description (750 characters)
- Upload at least 10 high-quality photos
- Add your menu as a link or PDF
- Set accurate opening hours (including bank holidays)
- Enable messaging and booking features
- Add all services and amenities (beer garden, dog friendly, etc.)
Build a Strong Review Profile
Reviews are one of the strongest ranking signals for the Map Pack. Pubs with more positive reviews tend to rank higher than those without.
star rating is the minimum most customers expect before choosing a pub
How to Get More Reviews
- Ask at the right moment: When customers are happy, ask if they'd leave a review
- Make it easy: Create a short link and put it on table cards, receipts, and your website
- Respond to every review: Good or bad, always reply professionally
- Don't incentivise: Offering rewards for reviews violates Google's guidelines
Build Local Citations
Citations are mentions of your pub's name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites. They help Google verify your business exists and is legitimate.
Essential Citation Sources for Pubs
- TripAdvisor
- Yell.com
- Yelp
- Bing Places
- Apple Maps
- Local newspaper/magazine websites
- Tourism websites for your area
- CAMRA Good Beer Guide (if applicable)
Track Your Progress
Map Pack rankings change based on the searcher's location, so tracking isn't straightforward. Here's how to monitor your progress:
- Google Business Profile Insights: Shows how many people found you via search and maps
- Search from different locations: Ask friends in different areas to search and screenshot results
- Track direction requests: More direction requests usually means better visibility
- Monitor phone calls: GBP tracks calls made directly from your listing
How Long Does It Take?
Map Pack improvements don't happen overnight. Typically, you'll see movement within 2-3 months of consistent effort.
Get a Free Local SEO Audit
We'll analyse your current Map Pack position and show you exactly what's needed to improve your ranking.
Request your free audit