Being visible online is just as crucial as having a storefront on a busy high street. While many entrepreneurs focus solely on their websites and social media presence, they often overlook a powerful tool: an online UK business directory.
These UK online business listing sites serve as your digital storefront, guiding potential customers to your business with the same value as foot traffic in a physical store.
However, not all directories offer the same benefits. The internet is filled with free UK business listing sites, but merely populating these platforms won’t catapult your company to the top of search engine results. The sheer volume of businesses vying for attention can make it challenging to stand out.
The key is strategically positioning your business in these local UK business directories that offer more than just a name and address. These directories provide opportunities for customer reviews and significantly improve your local search engine optimisation (SEO).
Businesses that fail to adapt to this digitalisation of listing them on these online UK business directories risk becoming obsolete.
So, in the guide, we’ve highlighted noteworthy UK business directories. We’ll explore paid and the best free business listing sites in the UK, each offering unique benefits for different types of businesses. By using these directories effectively, you can:
- Expand your digital footprint across trusted platforms
- Enhance your local search visibility
- Strengthen your online reputation through customer feedback
- Stand out in an increasingly competitive market
The following sections list the most impactful UK business directories by category and industry.
Table of contents
- Why submit your business to these local business directories in the UK?
- Top global UK business directories
- 30+ Best free business listing sites in the UK
- UK’s leading B2B directory for small businesses
- 20+ industry-specific business directories in the UK
- FAQs on business directory in the UK
- Register yourself on these business directories in the UK and attract more customers with Birdeye Listings AI
What are business directories? Business directories are online or offline platforms that list businesses categorised by industry, location, or other relevant requirements. They are a go-to resource for people seeking specific businesses or services within a particular area.
Why submit your business to these local business directories in the UK?
Submitting your business to local UK business directories is a smart outbound marketing strategy. Here’s why it works:
- Boosts visibility: Directories are indexed by search engines, so listing your business can improve your search engine ranking, making it easier for potential customers to find you.
- Reach your local audience: Local directories help you reach customers in your area, increasing your chances of generating sales.
- Build trust: Being listed in reputable directories can enhance your business’s credibility and trustworthiness, making customers more likely to choose your services over competitors.
- Grows your business: Directories can attract new customers actively searching for businesses like yours in their local area.
- Network with others: Many directories offer networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with other local businesses and potentially form partnerships or collaborations.
- Improves customer experience: Having your business listed in directories makes it easier for customers to find your contact information, website, and other relevant details, improving their overall experience.
- Affordable marketing: Unlike other marketing channels, directories are often a cost-effective way to reach potential customers.
Top global UK business directories
1. Google Business Profile
Using free business listing sites enhances visibility and engagement when attracting customers. Among the top platforms in the UK, Google Business Profile stands out for its integration with Google Search and Maps.
Its USP lies in its ability to provide rich information, including customer reviews, photos, videos, business addresses, and more.
2. Apple Maps
Apple Maps offers a distinct advantage for businesses targeting iOS users. Its advanced features, such as location-based suggestions and augmented reality navigation, make it easier for users to explore and engage with businesses listed on the platform.
3. Bing Places for Business
Bing Places for Business caters to users who prefer Microsoft’s ecosystem, making it an excellent choice for reaching a diverse audience. Its USP includes enhanced visibility on Bing Search and Maps, allowing businesses to capitalise on a less saturated market while enjoying features like easy listing management and analytics.
4. Facebook Business
Facebook Business combines social networking with business promotion, offering an interactive platform where businesses can build a community around their brand. Its uniqueness lies in engaging customers through posts, events, and messaging, driving loyalty and repeat business.
5. Foursquare
Foursquare, initially known for its check-in feature, has evolved into a robust platform for local discovery. Its USP is rooted in personalised recommendations, helping businesses reach users looking for tailored experiences based on their preferences and location.
6. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerhouse for professional networking and B2B marketing. Its uniqueness stems from LinkedIn Business Page’s focus on professional relationships, making it an ideal platform for businesses looking to connect with other companies, industry professionals, and potential clients.
Enhance your online presence and local search rankings by building comprehensive profiles on dominant platforms like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Bing, which capture 90% of web traffic. With Birdeye Listings AI, you can: ✅Sync online directories and core sites in a centralised dashboard. ✅Identify your top and bottom-performing locations on Google. ✅Get location-level keyword rankings to optimise for the most relevant keywords. ✅Business listing management on key industry sites. ✅Stand out on Google with your own personalised Birdeye profiles. ✅Use AI to write SEO-friendly descriptions.
30+ Best free business listing sites in the UK
7. Yell.com
Yell.com is a leading online business directory in the UK, renowned for its extensive reach and user-friendly interface. Its USP lies in its robust search functionality and local advertising options.
8. Thomson Local
Thomson Local is one of the most established business directories in the UK, with a strong focus on local businesses. Its detailed listings are perfect as local landing pages for businesses targeting specific regions or towns within the UK.
9. Scoot
Scoot is known for its seamless listing process and local search optimisation. Its USP focuses on driving traffic through mobile-friendly designs and integration with Google services, ensuring businesses can effectively reach customers on various devices.
10. 192.com
192.com is one of the UK’s most recognised and widely used directories. Originally a people-finding service, 192.com has expanded to include business listings. Businesses can benefit from the platform’s high traffic volume and search capabilities.
11. FreeIndex
FreeIndex is an entirely free business directory that emphasises customer reviews. Its USP is the ability to prominently showcase positive feedback, helping businesses build trust and attract new customers based on genuine experiences from others.
12. Touch Local
Touch Local specialises in connecting local businesses with nearby consumers. Its unique selling proposition includes enhanced visibility through targeted local searches.
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13. Businessmagnet
Businessmagnet offers a highly customisable listing option for various industries. Its USP focuses on generating leads through effective SEO reputation management.
14. Hotfrog
Hotfrog lets businesses list their products, services, and contact details in a clean, easy-to-navigate interface. Its strength lies in providing businesses with more SEO power, helping them climb search engine rankings.
15. Cyclex
ICyclex UK provides a broad directory service focusing on local businesses across the UK. Its easy-to-use interface and detailed categorisation make it ideal for consumers searching for specific local services. Businesses benefit from Cyclex’s solid local authority.
16. UK Small Business Directory
UK Small Business Directory is designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK. The platform offers free listings with the option to upgrade for enhanced visibility. It’s a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to improve their local SEO and connect with potential customers in their area.
17. B2B Directory-UK
B2B Directory UK caters specifically to businesses in the UK’s B2B sector. It’s a trusted platform for businesses looking to connect with suppliers, partners, or clients in their industry. This free local business directory of the UK provides detailed listings with the option to upgrade for more visibility, making it a valuable resource for businesses in professional services, manufacturing, and distribution.
18. UFindUs
UFindUs is another UK-based business directory that provides affordable listing options for small businesses. It offers free and premium listings, making it accessible to many businesses. UFindUs is popular for helping businesses increase their online exposure.
19. Brownbook UK
Brownbook UK is a global yet local citation builder that allows businesses to create free listings and connect with customers. Its unique selling proposition is its user-generated content model, encouraging reviews and updates that enhance credibility.
20. MisterWhat UK
MisterWhat UK is a popular choice for businesses looking for a simple, no-frills directory listing. MisterWhat offers free listings, making it accessible to small businesses and startups. Its user-friendly interface and focus on customer reviews make it ideal for service-oriented businesses that rely on positive customer experiences to drive business.
21. UK Web Directory
The UK Web Directory provides a listing service for various types of businesses. Its USP is its broad reach and categorisation, making it easy for potential customers to find services that meet their needs through a simple, organised format.
22. FindaTrade UK
FindaTrade UK specialises in connecting homeowners with tradespeople. Its unique selling proposition lies in its detailed reviews and ratings system, allowing businesses to build trust and attract clients seeking reliable services for home improvement projects.
23. Local Data Company
Local Data Company focuses on providing accurate data and insights for local businesses. Its USP includes comprehensive market intelligence that helps businesses understand their competition and enhance their visibility through targeted listings.
24. Cityvisitor UK
Cityvisitor UK offers a dynamic online directory focused on local attractions and services. Its blend of business listings and city guides also improves a business’ social media SEO by catering to consumers looking for local experiences alongside their services.
25. Fyple UK
Fyple UK is a UK business directory with a strong emphasis on usability, making it perfect for small businesses looking to set up and manage their listings easily. Fyple allows businesses to be listed by category, ensuring a better match with consumer searches. The platform is free and offers premium options for enhanced visibility.
26. Spoke UK Business Directory
Spoke UK Business Directory is a popular option for UK businesses looking to enhance their local online visibility. It offers business listing services and customer engagement opportunities, allowing businesses to showcase their reviews and services. Its clean interface and focus on customer interaction make it especially useful for service-based businesses looking to build trust through reviews.
27. Opendi UK
Opendi UK is an established business directory with a global presence but a strong UK focus. Businesses benefit from its high domain authority and SEO potential. The platform offers free and paid listings. Opendi is ideal for businesses looking to gain more online exposure without the need for extensive setup processes.
28. Applegate Marketplace
Applegate Marketplace directory is highly regarded within the UK B2B community. It specifically caters to industrial and manufacturing businesses. It offers a curated directory that allows businesses to connect directly with other companies in the supply chain.
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29. 4ni.co.uk
4ni.co.uk is a regional UK directory that focuses on businesses in Northern Ireland. It offers a hyper-local approach, making it ideal for businesses looking to capture a more niche, regional audience. The platform offers free listings, making it accessible to small businesses, and its local focus is to build strong relationships within their communities.
30. CityListings.co.uk
CityListings.co.uk is known for its user-friendly interface and its focus on businesses across a wide range of sectors. It’s beneficial for businesses targeting specific cities or regions within the UK. The platform’s strength is connecting businesses with location-based services such as restaurants, shops, and local tradespeople.
31. BizWiki UK
BizWiki UK is an open-edit platform that allows businesses to update their listings and information as they evolve. Its flexibility makes it appealing for companies that need to adjust their services, hours, or contact details frequently.
32. Bizify
Bizify provides a highly accessible platform for businesses to get noticed online, particularly by UK consumers. This free online UK directory is especially known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for small businesses that don’t want to invest heavily in complex listing systems.
33. Find Us Here UK
Find Us Here UK stands out with its international reach but has a strong presence in the UK market. Its global connections make it an excellent choice for businesses expanding beyond UK borders. It is particularly helpful for businesses in the travel or export sectors.
34. Best of the Web UK
Best of the Web UK is a highly trusted platform with a strong SEO reputation. This directory is popular among businesses that want to improve their website’s search engine rankings by being listed on high-authority platforms. Best of the Web UK is especially valuable for small to medium-sized enterprises seeking local reputation management.
35. Tipped UK
Tipped UK is a user-driven business directory focusing on customer recommendations and reviews. It’s particularly valuable for service-based businesses like restaurants, hairdressers, and retail stores, as customer feedback is a key driver of its platform.
36. Hotfrog UK
Hotfrog UK is a well-known business directory that prioritises visibility across search engines. Hotfrog allows businesses to list their products, services, and contact details. Its strength lies in providing businesses with more SEO power, helping them climb search engine rankings.
37. Business Directory UK
Business Directory UK provides businesses with a solid platform to list their details for both local and national exposure. The directory offers free and paid listing options, allowing businesses to choose based on their marketing budget.
38. Locanto
Locanto (formerly Yalwa UK) is another platform that offers free listings and paid advertising options. Locanto’s strength lies in its category-specific approach, which helps businesses reach a targeted audience based on industry and location.
39. Zipleaf UK
Zipleaf is known for helping businesses connect with other businesses and consumers in niche markets. Its broad reach across various sectors makes it a great choice for companies looking to grow their network.
40. Local.com UK
Local.com UK is a well-regarded local business directory that helps connect UK consumers with businesses in their area. Local.com offers a mix of free and premium listing options, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.
41. All in London Directory
All in London Directory is particularly popular in the Greater London area, providing businesses with exposure to one of the largest metropolitan markets in the UK. Its premium features allow businesses to promote themselves directly to London residents and visitors.
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42. Fyple UK
Fyple UK offers businesses a simple yet effective way to list their services and products online. It’s known for its SEO benefits, as listings on Fyple often rank well in Google searches. This local business directory in the UK is particularly popular with multi-location businesses looking for a free, easy-to-manage platform.
43. Surrey
Surrey is a local news platform that can also be used as a business directory. By staying updated on local news, engaging with the community, promoting events, and following business news, businesses can increase their visibility and reach within the Surrey community.
44. The Trade Finder
The Trade Finder is one of the UK’s oldest and most trusted directories for tradespeople and service providers. It strongly focuses on the construction, home improvement, and repair sectors, helping consumers find reliable tradespeople. Its long-standing reputation makes it a go-to platform for consumers and businesses in these industries.
45. Kompass UK
Kompass UK is a comprehensive B2B directory with global reach but a strong focus on the UK market. It’s particularly valuable for businesses looking to expand into international markets while maintaining a local presence. Kompass is a paid UK business directory, known for its high-quality listings and industry-specific targeting.
46. Findtheneedle UK
Findtheneedle UK caters primarily to businesses in the manufacturing, engineering, and industrial sectors. Its USP is its focus on these technical industries, offering targeted exposure to companies seeking suppliers or service providers. It’s a free business directory for B2B businesses looking to connect within these specialised sectors in the UK.
47. 118 Information
118 Information is a famous UK-based local business listing service offering a comprehensive database of businesses and individuals. Additional services like directory enquiries make it a convenient and reliable resource for finding information in the UK. Additionally, you can easily identify unknown callers with the reverse number lookup feature.
UK’s leading B2B directory for small businesses
48. Approved Business UK
Approved Business UK is designed for B2B businesses, offering a platform that connects suppliers with buyers. It’s highly regarded for its focus on professionalism and the quality of its listings.
49. Business.co.uk
Business.co.uk is a highly regarded UK business directory that offers businesses a free listing service with premium options for enhanced visibility. This directory is ideal for small and medium enterprises that need a cost-effective way to boost their online presence.
50. UK-Business.co.uk
UK-Business.co.uk positions itself as a one-stop resource for entrepreneurs and established businesses within the UK. It goes beyond a simple online business directory in the UK, offering a comprehensive platform for entrepreneurs and investors with industry trends and utilising tools like financial calculators and marketing templates to optimize operations.
51. FindOpen UK
FindOpen UK is part of a global network of business directories that helps businesses of all sizes list their services for free. One of its standout features as a business listing site in the UK is the ability to display opening hours, which is particularly useful for brick-and-mortar businesses.
52. The Best of UK
The Best of UK focuses on promoting local businesses across various towns and cities in the UK. It operates as a local network, helping businesses engage with their community. The platform also offers features such as customer reviews, which can help build credibility.
53. iBegin
iBegin UK provides businesses with a simple platform to list their services and products online. It’s especially beneficial for small businesses that want to increase their visibility without the hassle of complex listings.
54. Local Pages
Local Pages is one of the best free business listing sites in the UK. It connects local customers through region-specific directories across the South West and Wales. This is particularly beneficial for businesses in the retail and service industries. Local Pages is famous for its focus on hyper-local advertising, which allows businesses to reach a more targeted audience.
55. Britaine.co.uk
Britaine.co.uk is a unique free business directory in the UK that blends traditional listings with a focus on local services. It’s a good option for businesses that want to connect with customers looking for recommendations in their area. The platform allows businesses to list their services for free and to upgrade for better visibility.
56. My Local Services
My Local Services is a UK-based local business directory, review site, and business advice forum that focuses on helping UK businesses gain more visibility, particularly in local searches. It allows businesses to list their services for free.
20+ industry-specific business directories in the UK
Automotive business listing sites in the UK
57. AutoTrader UK
Known as one of the biggest automotive marketplaces in the UK, AutoTrader’s business directory gives automotive businesses significant exposure. It’s beneficial for car dealerships looking to reach a national audience.
58. Carsite Used Cars
The Carsite’s regional directory is a specialised platform for connecting car buyers with local dealerships, allowing them to easily find and compare used car options in their area.
59. RAC Approved Garages
RAC Approved Garages is a local business directory in the UK trusted by UK consumers looking for reliable garages and mechanics. Being listed here adds credibility, as RAC only approves garages that meet high standards.
Dental local business directory in the UK
60. NHS Choices Directory
The NHS Choices Directory is a trusted local business directory for dental services in the UK. It provides comprehensive listings of NHS-approved dentists and helps patients find nearby options easily.
61. Dentist Directory
Dentist Directory is an online business directory focused solely on dental practices across the UK. It offers detailed profiles, reviews, and services, making it a go-to resource for finding local dentists.
Free business directory in the UK for financial services
62. MoneySuperMarket
MoneySuperMarket is a leading online UK business directory for financial services. It allows users to compare various financial products, and its user-friendly interface helps consumers find the best deals for their needs.
63. NextWealth Directory
NextWealth Directory is a specialised online business directory for financial services, connecting consumers with wealth managers and financial advisors. It offers detailed listings, client reviews, and tailored service descriptions to help users make informed choices.
Healthcare online UK business directory
64. Doctify
Doctify is an online business directory in the UK that connects patients with healthcare professionals. It features user reviews and appointment booking, making it a valuable resource in the local business directories for healthcare services.
65. Care Quality Commission (CQC)
The CQC is an official online business listing site in the UK that ensures healthcare providers meet essential quality standards. Its listings help consumers find accredited services, promoting safety and trust in healthcare choices.
Home services’ best free business listing sites in the UK
66. Checkatrade
Checkatrade is a renowned local business directory in the UK for home services. It connects homeowners with vetted tradespeople and emphasises customer reviews, ensuring quality service through trusted listings.
67. Rated People
Rated People is an online directory that connects homeowners with local tradespeople for various home improvement projects. It features reviews and ratings, allowing consumers to choose the best professionals easily.
68. TrustATrader
TrustATrader is a free business directory in the UK focused on trades and home services. Its unique platform features verified reviews, helping homeowners confidently find reliable professionals in their local area.
Local business directories in the UK for the legal industry
69. Lawyer Locator
Lawyer Locator is a specialised online UK business directory that helps individuals find local lawyers. It provides essential contact information and areas of expertise to help users make informed choices.
70. The Law Society
The Law Society serves as a reputable directory for solicitors in the UK. It promotes qualified legal professionals, enhancing visibility and trust through a comprehensive listing of accredited law practices.
71. Solicitors Regulation Authority Directory
The Solicitors Regulation Authority Directory is an official UK online directory for solicitors. It ensures consumers access qualified legal representation by providing a transparent and reliable listing of practising solicitors.
UK small business directory for the property management industry
72. Zoopla
Zoopla is a leading online UK business directory for property listings. It offers comprehensive details on homes for sale and rent and simplifies the property search process for consumers, making it a popular choice.
73. Rightmove
Rightmove is a prominent online business directory for real estate in the UK. It provides extensive property listings, including photos and descriptions, ensuring users find their ideal homes quickly and efficiently.
74. OnTheMarket
OnTheMarket is a free business directory of the UK that connects buyers and sellers in the property market. Its user-friendly platform features a variety of property types, enhancing local property visibility.
Local business directory in the UK for the public storage industry
75. Safestore UK
Safestore UK is an online business directory specialising in storage solutions. It offers secure storage options across the UK, making it easy for individuals and businesses to find local storage facilities.
76. Big Yellow Storage
Big Yellow Storage is a well-known directory for self-storage options in the UK. Its user-friendly listings help consumers find secure storage solutions conveniently tailored to their needs.
77. Shurgard UK
Shurgard UK is an online directory that offers a range of self-storage solutions. Its comprehensive listings make it easy for customers to compare facilities and choose the best option for their storage needs.
Real estate’s top free business directory in the UK
78. PrimeLocation
PrimeLocation is a leading UK online business directory for real estate listings. It features many properties and provides detailed information to help buyers and renters make informed decisions.
79. PropertyPal
PropertyPal is a popular online directory for property listings in the UK. Its user-friendly interface and extensive search capabilities make it easy for consumers to discover homes that meet their criteria.
Retail industry’s best free business listing sites in the UK
80. Shopify Experts UK Directory
The Shopify Experts UK Directory is a niche online business directory connecting retailers with Shopify experts. It helps businesses find specialised services to enhance their online stores and improve sales.
81. Shpock
Shpock is a unique online UK business directory that combines classifieds with retail. It lets users buy and sell items locally, promoting community engagement and accessible shopping options.
82. eBay UK Business Directory
The eBay UK Business Directory is an extensive platform for retail businesses to list their products. It connects sellers with millions of buyers, making it a vital resource for online retail visibility.
Wellness industry’s online UK business directory
83. House of Wellness Directory UK
The Wellness Directory UK is a specialised online directory for wellness services. It connects consumers with local practitioners and offers a comprehensive resource for holistic health and wellness options across the UK.
84. Spafinder UK
Spafinder UK is an online business directory focused on spa and wellness services. Its listings help consumers discover relaxation and beauty treatments, enhancing their overall well-being through local options.
85. MindBody UK
MindBody UK is a popular online business directory for wellness services, including fitness and holistic health. It connects consumers with local providers, making it easier to find and book wellness experiences.
FAQs on business directory in the UK
UK business directories are online platforms that list businesses categorised by industry, location, or other relevant criteria. They help people find local businesses and services.
While there’s no single platform to submit your business to all UK directories, you can use tools like Google Business Profile and other popular directory platforms to reach a wide audience.
Most directories have a section where you can manage your listing and update your business information, including your name.
Popular UK business directories include Google Maps, 192.com, Yellow Pages, Thomson Local, and FreeIndex.
Many online directories offer free listings. Search for “free business directory UK” to find options.
To maximise your visibility, create accurate and informative listings that include your business name, address, phone number, website, and a brief description of your services.
Submitting your business to directories can improve your online visibility, attract new customers, and enhance your local SEO.
Register yourself on these business directories in the UK and attract more customers with Birdeye Listings AI
Birdeye Listings AI offers a powerful platform to enhance your business’s online reputation and visibility. Here’s how its GenAI recommendations benefit you:
✅Centralized management
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Read how one of our customers benefited after integrating Birdeye Listing AI: “48.91% of our website visitors come from Google, so keeping our info up-to-date is important. Birdeye easily updates our listings across Google and other big sites, helping us stay accurate online and keep our customers happy.” - Carissa Newton, Director of Marketing, Cunningham Restaurant Group
Originally published