Edinburgh: Electric Mile Pub Crawl with Free Shots

If you’re looking to dive into Edinburgh’s lively nightlife scene, the Electric Mile Pub Crawl offers a fun, energetic way to explore the city’s best bars. We haven’t personally done this tour, but based on what’s shared, it sounds like a lively night out with plenty of perks—free shots, no cover charges, and discounts on drinks at some of Edinburgh’s most iconic venues. The energy seems contagious, especially for those who love a good party atmosphere and meeting new people.

What really appeals to us is how the tour packs so many well-known pubs into just five hours, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a taste of Edinburgh’s nightlife without the hassle of planning individual visits. The inclusion of free entry and shots can also make this a more affordable night out, especially if you’re keen on enjoying the bars without worrying about extra costs. One potential consideration? The fast-paced, loud environment might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed evening.

This tour feels like it would suit travelers who thrive on social energy, love live music or pubs with a bit of character, and aren’t shy about jumping into a lively crowd. It’s particularly good for those wanting a guided, safe way to explore nightlife while still having fun.

Key Points

• High-energy pub crawl through Edinburgh’s Electric Mile
• Includes free shots, free entry, and discounted drinks at each venue
• Visits iconic bars like The Oz Bar, Frankenstein, and The Three Sisters
• Great for social travelers who want to meet fellow night owls
• Lively venues with live music, party vibes, and boisterous crowds
• Duration of five hours makes it a lively, but manageable night out

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Electric Mile Pub Crawl

The Electric Mile in Edinburgh is where this tour centers, a stretch known for its buzzing bars and vibrant nightlife. The tour kicks off at a designated meeting point in the heart of the city, where your guide will be waiting with a PUB CRAWL sign. Coordinates are precise (55.947509765625, -3.1920909881591797), so finding the start point should be straightforward.

Once gathered, the group heads straight into the action. The tour’s route is designed to maximize fun and variety, with stops at some of the most lively and popular venues in the city. Expect an energetic atmosphere from the get-go, with the promise of free shots and discounted drinks at every stop. The tour is designed to give you a good mix of Edinburgh’s pub scene, from Irish-style pubs to rock-n-roll venues.

Venue Breakdown

The Oz Bar is the first big stop, known for its Irish pub vibe. Expect friendly bartenders, a good selection of beers, and a lively crowd. Reviewers mention that it’s a classic spot that gets the night rolling, with some calling it a “great introduction” to Edinburgh’s pub scene.

Next up is Frankenstein, famous for its rock-n-roll vibe. Here, the energy amps up, with loud music and an intense party atmosphere. It’s a favorite among those who love a bit of edge and live music, even if it means some noise and chaos. One reviewer noted, “Feel the rock-n-roll intensity here—perfect for those who want a party vibe.”

The Three Sisters is another well-loved venue, often described as a “famous, chaotic party spot.” Its large outdoor space and multiple bars make it ideal for mingling and spontaneous chats with fellow crawl-participants. It’s also a prime spot for group photos and just soaking up the lively ambiance.

Finally, the tour makes its way to Stramash, which is described as a “raucous party hub.” Expect big tunes, lots of dancing, and a boisterous crowd. It’s a fitting conclusion for a high-energy pub crawl, leaving you with memories of a wild, fun night.

What to Expect from the Experience

This isn’t a laid-back evening; it’s designed to be high-octane and social. Your guide will navigate the group through each venue swiftly, ensuring you get the most out of the experience without long waits. The free entry and skip-the-line security check are helpful perks, making sure you spend less time queuing and more time enjoying the fun.

The duration of about five hours offers enough time to enjoy several venues without it feeling overwhelming. Plus, the presence of live music and a lively crowd means you’re immersed in Edinburgh’s nightlife energy.

The Social Side

Meeting fellow pub-crawlers is naturally a big part of the experience. Many reviews highlight how the guide facilitates conversations, enabling you to connect with strangers who often become new friends by the end of the night. The inclusive and friendly atmosphere makes it easier for travelers to relax and enjoy the chaos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practicalities

The meeting point is easy to find, with the guide waiting at a designated spot with a clear sign. Be sure to bring your passport or ID, as the tour requires age verification and provides free entry to the bars. The tour is not suitable for those under 18, so plan accordingly.

The optional reserve now, pay later policy offers flexibility if your plans change, and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance keeps options open. The tour is available in multiple languages—English, French, and Spanish—which broadens its appeal.

The Value for Money

At five hours with free shots, discounted drinks, and skip-the-line access, the tour offers a solid value—especially if you’re keen on experiencing Edinburgh’s nightlife in a structured way. It saves you the hassle of figuring out where to go and how to get in, making it ideal for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free night.

What Could Be Improved

The high-energy vibe might not be perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter night or are more into relaxed, intimate pubs. The venues can get loud and crowded quickly, which might not suit everyone. Also, since the tour is quite fast-paced, those who want to linger longer at specific venues might find it a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a vibrant, social night out with a group of like-minded travelers, this pub crawl ticks many boxes. It’s well-suited for those who love lively venues, live music, and making new friends on the go. The free shots and discounted drinks are a nice bonus that add to the overall value.

While it’s not for those seeking quiet, intimate evenings, it’s perfect for those who want to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife in a fun, guided format—especially if you’re visiting for just a few nights and want to maximize your fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour is mainly centered around bars with alcohol, but non-drinkers could still enjoy the social atmosphere and music. However, the main perks—free shots and discounted drinks—are alcohol-focused, so it might be less appealing if you don’t drink.

Can I join the tour if I’m under 18?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, mainly because of the alcohol and venue restrictions.

How long does the pub crawl last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a lively but manageable night out.

Are drinks included in the price?
While drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, you’ll enjoy free shots and discounts at every venue, which adds significant value.

Where do I meet the guide?
Your guide will be waiting at the designated meeting point with a PUB CRAWL sign, at coordinates 55.947509765625, -3.1920909881591797.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 18, and given the lively, alcohol-centered environment, it’s best suited for adults.

This pub crawl offers a spirited way to experience Edinburgh’s famous Electric Mile and its vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to meet people or part of a group eager for a party, this tour promises an energetic night that captures the spirit of Edinburgh’s bar scene. Just be ready for loud music, lively crowds, and a whole lot of fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: