How to Get Your Pub on Google Maps

When someone searches "pub near me" on their phone, Google Maps results dominate the screen. If your pub isn't there, you're invisible to most potential customers.

86%

of people look up the location of a business on Google Maps

The good news: getting on Google Maps is free and relatively straightforward. Here's exactly how to do it.

Person searching for a pub on Google Maps — Being on Google Maps is essential for attracting walk-in customers

Step 1: Check If You Already Have a Listing

Before creating anything new, search for your pub on Google. If it appears on the map - even without much information - you may already have an unclaimed listing that Google created automatically.

If you find an existing listing, claim it rather than creating a new one. This preserves any existing reviews and history.

Step 2: Create or Claim Your Google Business Profile

Go to Google Business Profile

Visit business.google.com and sign in with a Google account. Use an email you'll have permanent access to - ideally a business email rather than a personal one.

Add or Claim Your Business

Click "Add your business to Google" and search for your pub name. If it exists, select it and click "Claim this business". If not, click "Add your business".

Enter your business name exactly as you want it to appear. Don't stuff keywords - "The Red Lion Pub" is fine, but "The Red Lion Pub Best Sunday Roast Manchester" violates Google's guidelines and could get you suspended.

Select Your Category

Choose "Pub" as your primary category. You can add secondary categories later (like "Gastropub" or "Beer garden") but get the main one right first.

Add Your Address

Enter your full address exactly as it appears on Royal Mail records. Consistency matters - use the same format everywhere you list your pub online.

Your Google Business Profile dashboard is where you'll manage your listing

Step 3: Verify Your Business

Google needs to confirm you're the legitimate owner. Common verification methods:

Verification Methods

Postcard: Google mails a postcard with a code (5-14 days)
Phone: Automated call to your listed number with a code (instant)
Email: Code sent to a business email (instant)

Phone verification is fastest when available. Don't request another method while waiting for a postcard - it can reset the entire process.

Step 4: Complete and Optimise Your Profile

Once verified, add everything you can. Complete profiles rank higher and convert more searchers into visitors.

Profile Completion Checklist

Opening hours (including special hours for bank holidays)
At least 10 high-quality photos (exterior, interior, food, drinks)
Business description (what makes your pub special)
Attributes (dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible, live sports)
Menu (URL or upload dishes directly)
Website URL
Booking link (if you take reservations)

Need Professional Photos?

Great photos are crucial for your Google listing. We can help you get the shots that convert browsers into visitors.

Learn about our services

Step 5: Start Getting Reviews

Reviews are the single biggest factor in local search ranking after having a complete profile. Ask happy customers to leave reviews.

50+

reviews is the sweet spot for local businesses - aim to reach this milestone

Create a direct review link from your Business Profile dashboard and add it to table cards, receipts, or follow-up emails. Make it as easy as possible for customers to review you.

What Happens Next

Your pub should appear on Google Maps within a few days of verification. Your ranking in search results will improve as you add more information, photos, and reviews.

For more advanced strategies, read our guide on how to get into the Google Map Pack.

Want Help Optimising Your Listing?

Book a free audit and we'll show you exactly how to climb the local rankings and beat your competitors.

Get your free audit