5 Local Backlink Strategies To Try Today
Building quality backlinks for your UK business can feel like navigating a maze! Large companies have teams of SEO experts working around the clock, but small and medium-sized businesses often find it difficult to create local backlink strategies in the UK that works. However, all you need to do is take a calculated approach that concentrates on local opportunities.
1. Master the Art of Local Directories UK Submissions
Think local directories are outdated? Think again. Submitting your website to local business directories is important, as it helps Google to understand your business much better, and many UK businesses are missing this goldmine of opportunities.
High-Value UK Directories:
- Yell.com: Still the original for UK business listings
- Bing Places: Often overlooked but increasingly valuable
- Thomson Local: Regional authority that Google trusts
- Free Index: Established UK directory with solid domain authority
2. Build Strategic Local Partnerships That Count
UK SEO links from genuine business partnerships carry significantly more weight than generic directory listings. The secret lies in identifying businesses that complement yours without directly competing.
3. Leverage Local Press and Digital Publications
Here’s what works in 2025: Instead of sending generic press releases, create newsworthy stories that matter to your community. Launch a local charity initiative, conduct original research about your industry, or offer expert commentary on regional developments.
4. Create Linkable Local Content That Spreads
Content marketing isn’t just about blogs; it’s about creating resources that other local businesses, organisations, and publications genuinely want to reference and link to.
Think “Local Guide for [Your City]” or “Complete Directory of [Regional] Services”. These comprehensive resources naturally attract UK SEO link-building opportunities because they provide genuine value to your community.
- Bristol City Council’s business resources page
- Local chambers of commerce
- Regional business consultants and accountants
- Start-up blogs and entrepreneurship websites
5. Maximise Chamber of Commerce and Trade Association Links
Making Your Strategy Work in Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
How many UK directories should I submit my business to for SEO?
Quality trumps quantity when it comes to UK directory submissions for effective SEO results. Focus on 10-15 high-authority directories like Yell.com, Bing Places, and Thomson Local rather than submitting to hundreds of low-quality sites.
Do local business partnerships actually improve search engine rankings?
Local business partnerships generate high-quality, contextual backlinks that search engines value significantly more than generic directory listings. When complementary businesses naturally reference each other through resource pages, referral sections, or collaborative content, these links carry strong relevance signals.
Are chamber of commerce memberships worth it for SEO backlinks?
Chamber of Commerce memberships provide valuable local SEO benefits beyond just directory backlinks, making them worthwhile investments for UK businesses. Most chambers offer member directory listings with high-authority backlinks, but the real SEO value comes from active participation in events, newsletters, and local initiatives.
