Edinburgh: Ultimate Pub Crawl Party with 7 Bars & 1 Club

Thinking about turning a regular evening into something unforgettable? This pub crawl in Edinburgh promises just that, with a full night of drinks, games, and meeting new people. It’s a lively way to experience the city’s nightlife, especially if you’re in the mood for some fun, socializing, and a bit of chaos.

What caught our eye about this tour? First, the VIP access and queue skipping at some of Edinburgh’s top venues make the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable. Second, the variety of activities, from drinking games to challenges, keeps the energy high and the night memorable. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the guide’s engagement seemed to be less than stellar in some reviews, which could impact the vibe if you’re hoping for a highly guided experience.

This pub crawl is ideal for solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a cost-effective way to explore Edinburgh’s nightlife with a built-in social scene. If you’re after a relaxed, low-key night or want a more curated experience, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re ready to dive into a night of fun, drinks, and new connections, this tour could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Affordable price point with a lot included — 7 bars, free shots, exclusive deals.
• Skip queues and get VIP access, saving you time and hassle.
• Lots of social fun with games, challenges, and meeting people from all over.
• Duration of around 6 hours makes it a full night out, ending in a lively club.
• Guide’s engagement may vary; some reviews mention less interaction.
• Strict age and group policies—no under 18, no bachelor/ette parties, casual dress preferred.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Edinburgh Pub Crawl

This experience kicks off in the bustling heart of Edinburgh, specifically inside Kick Ass Greyfriars on Cowgate, a spot that immediately screams lively. You’ll meet your hosts, identifiable by their Ebrius T-shirts, who are there to pump up the crowd with good energy and help you start the night right. Check-in begins at 7:30 PM, and the official departure is at 8:15 PM sharp — punctuality is key if you want your first free shot and to avoid missing out on the fun.

The First Stop: Kick Ass Greyfriars

Right from the start, you’re thrown into the thick of Edinburgh’s nightlife scene. Expect a friendly atmosphere, especially if you’re arriving with a group or going solo — everyone’s there to have a good time. The hosts are lively and energetic, but one review notes that the guide “was only talking with a friend,” which might mean you’ll need to be your own motivator if you want the full experience.

The Route Through 7 Bars

You’ll visit a curated selection of some of Edinburgh’s best pubs and bars, with each stop offering a free welcome shot to keep the momentum going. The exclusivity of drink deals at certain venues means you can stretch your drinking budget without sacrificing the fun. The bars vary, likely from lively student hangouts to more stylish venues, giving you a nice cross-section of Edinburgh’s nightlife.

Activities and Entertainment

Throughout the night, expect drinking games, challenges, and icebreakers that keep everyone engaged and jovial. The energy is kept high, and the crowd is typically diverse — from fellow travelers to locals, plus students eager to unwind. The focus is on social interaction and entertainment, which helps break down barriers and encourages making new friends.

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Ending in the Club

After the 7 stops, the crawl concludes at one of Edinburgh’s most lively clubs. The music is loud, the drinks flow freely, and the dance floor beckons. This final phase gives you the chance to dance off the alcohol and extend the night’s fun in an energetic setting. The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, so it’s a full, well-rounded night out.

The Price and Value

At $16 per person, this tour is a pretty good deal, considering it includes entry to 7 venues, 7 free shots, and some exclusive deals. The price reflects the convenience of queue skipping and the guided aspect, which adds value for those who want a stress-free, social night. The cost per shot and drink deals at some bars help keep the night affordable, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

However, keep in mind that if you’re someone who prefers more control over your night or isn’t interested in group drinking challenges, the value might be less appealing. Still, for a night of guaranteed fun and meeting people without planning every detail yourself, it’s a solid choice.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Loved:
The social aspect is truly the highlight — meeting travelers from around the world and bonding over games and challenges creates a lively, inclusive atmosphere. The inclusion of free shots and deals means you won’t blow your entire budget on drinks, which is great if you want to party without worrying about the bill. The queue skipping feature also means more time drinking and socializing, less waiting around.

What Could Be Better:
Some reviews highlight that the guide’s lack of engagement can be a downer, making some moments feel less organized or spirited. Also, the venue choices are described as “okay to nice,” so this isn’t a tour for those seeking high-end or exclusive venues. Instead, it’s all about the fun, casual, in-the-moment experience.

Practical Tips for Participating

• Arrive on time — the check-in starts early, and missing the start means missing out on your first free shot.
• Bring a valid ID — passport or driver’s license are required; no copies or pictures allowed.
• Dress comfortably but avoid flip-flops or sportswear — some venues are selective about dress code.
• Be prepared to meet new people — the crowd is diverse, so bring an open mind.
• Enjoy the games and challenges — they’re part of the experience, so embrace the silliness.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This pub crawl is perfect if you want a cost-effective, social night out in Edinburgh with minimal planning. It suits solo travelers looking to meet people, groups of friends wanting to maximize their night, or anyone interested in experiencing Edinburgh’s nightlife with a lively, fun group atmosphere.

If you’re after a more curated or high-end experience, or prefer to explore at your own pace, this might not be the best option. Also, it explicitly doesn’t cater to stag or hen parties unless you contact the provider for a private arrangement.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Edinburgh Ultimate Pub Crawl offers a fun, lively way to experience the city’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each stop. The combination of free shots, exclusive deals, and social games creates an engaging environment for most travelers looking to socialize and dance into the night.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy group activities and don’t mind a somewhat chaotic, energetic vibe. While the guide’s engagement can vary, the overall experience is boosted by the crowd and the constant flow of drinks and entertainment.

If you’re in Edinburgh and want to turn an ordinary night into a memorable one filled with laughs, new friends, and plenty of dancing, this pub crawl could be just what you need. Just remember to be punctual, bring your ID, and come ready to have a good time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, most solo travelers find it easy to join in and meet new friends on this pub crawl, thanks to the social activities and lively crowd.

How long does the entire experience last?
The pub crawl lasts about 6 hours, starting around 8:15 PM and ending in a busy club.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, you must be 18 or older to join, and no fake IDs are allowed.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just your valid ID, a charged phone for selfies, and casual, comfortable shoes. Avoid sportswear and flip-flops to meet venue dress code expectations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience appropriate for groups?
It’s designed for casual groups; however, stag or hen parties should contact the provider for private arrangements.

If you’re up for a night of social drinking, games, and dancing, this pub crawl might just be your perfect Edinburgh adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: