Edinburgh’s Best Bar Crawl: Free Shots, Discounts, Photos

If you’re thinking about jumping into Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife scene, a bar crawl like this one from On The Rocks might be just what you need. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from the reviews and details available, it’s clear this experience aims to give you a fun, social night out exploring the Old Town’s best venues. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned visitor, it promises a lively atmosphere, plenty of drinks deals, and some memorable photos.

What really stands out is the inclusion of free shots and fast-track entry, which help keep the night flowing smoothly without the hassle of long lines or worrying about how much you’ll spend on drinks. Plus, the added bonus of a photographer capturing your night means you leave with some fun memories. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour is priced at just $11, so the experience is quite budget-friendly—though it might not include more exclusive venues or nightlife experiences.

This kind of tour is best suited for social butterflies, solo travelers, or groups looking to maximize their night out with a structured, lively guide. If you’re someone who enjoys meeting new people, loves a good drink deal, and doesn’t mind a bit of a party atmosphere, this could be a great option. If you prefer more exclusive or high-end venues, you might find it a bit basic, but for casual fun, it hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Affordable fun: At $11, it offers a lot of value with free shots, entry, and discounts.
• Great for socializing: Guides encourage mixing and meeting new people, making it ideal for solo travelers or groups.
• Includes photos: A photographer captures your night, with access you can review within 48 hours.
• Multiple venues: You’ll visit at least 5 bars/clubs in Edinburgh’s Old Town, each with its own vibe.
• Skip the lines: Fast-track entry means you avoid long waits at busy venues.
• Lively atmosphere: The guides and group dynamics tend to foster a fun, energetic vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The Meeting Point and Duration

Your night begins inside the Pilgrim Bar, located at 3 Robertson’s Close, Edinburgh. The guides usually meet you there, and from there, the adventure kicks off. Expect a 5-hour experience, with the exact starting time depending on availability. The tour ends back at the same point, making it easy to plan your evening.

The Venues and Experience

You’ll visit at least five venues in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Each venue offers its own unique character—some might be lively pubs, others more intimate bars or clubs. The tour is designed to keep the energy high, with energetic guides making sure everyone feels included and encouraged to mingle.

Drinks, Shots, and Deals

During the night, you’ll receive at least five free shots, which gives you a good start and helps set a fun tone for the evening. In addition, there are exclusive drinks discounts for the group, meaning you can enjoy a variety of beverages without spending too much. The fast-track entry is a real plus, especially on busy nights, saving you from long queues at popular spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Photography

One of the tour’s highlights is the on-hand photographer. They’ll capture candid shots of the group, the venues, and the fun moments—so you don’t have to worry about snapping your own pictures. Within 48 hours, you get access to these images, giving you some keepsakes from your Edinburgh night.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

Based on reviews, guides like Shoub, Apurv, and TJ are praised for making everyone feel comfortable and included. They help break the ice and introduce everyone, which is great whether you’re flying solo or with friends. The lively group atmosphere and the guides’ friendly approach really enhance the experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just $11 per person, this tour offers a solid value—especially if you enjoy meeting people and trying a variety of drinks without worrying about paying at each venue. The free entry and shots, combined with discounts, mean you’re likely to spend less than if you were going solo at each bar.

However, keep in mind that this isn’t a VIP or luxury experience—it’s a social pub crawl designed for fun and socializing. If you’re looking for more exclusive venues or a more refined night out, you might find this a bit straightforward. But if your goal is to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife with a group and get some great photos, it delivers.

The Actual Experience in Detail

The Vibe and Atmosphere

The tour is packed with energetic, friendly people who are there to have a good time. Guides make it a point to foster a welcoming environment; they encourage mingling and introduce everyone, helping to break down any initial shyness. The lively atmosphere is a common thread in reviews, with many noting how much fun they had meeting new friends.

The Venues

Each of the 5+ venues offers something different, though specific venues aren’t named in detail. From the reviews, Frankenstein, Ballie, and Bar Fifty are highlighted as “especially fun” spots, hinting at a mix of lively, characterful places that keep the party going. You might find some venues more crowded or lively than others, but the variety keeps the night interesting.

The Food and Drinks

While the tour mainly focuses on drinks, some venues might offer food options, and the exclusive discounts could extend to food as well. The free shots are a great way to kick things off, and the discounts help stretch your budget. Expect a mix of classic pub fare and some places offering more modern bar snacks—good for keeping your energy up.

The Photos

The photographer captures the group’s highlights, from goofy moments to more candid shots. Having these photos can really add to the fun, especially since you’ll get access to them within two days. It’s a nice touch that some reviews praise, especially for those who love to document their nights out.

The Group Size and Dynamics

While the exact number of participants isn’t specified, the guides are experienced at making sure everyone feels included. The group tends to be lively and social, with new friendships often forming. This makes the tour quite inclusive, whether you’re traveling solo or with friends.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This bar crawl is perfect for those looking to maximize their night in Edinburgh without breaking the bank. If you enjoy meeting new people, trying different drinks, and having a lively, guided experience, you’ll likely enjoy this. The inclusion of free shots and photos adds a nice touch that makes it feel more special than just a regular pub walk.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking luxury or exclusive venues, but for casual fun and socializing, it’s a solid choice. The knowledgeable guides and energetic atmosphere help make the most of a night out, especially if you’re in town for a short visit or looking to break the ice.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, the tour includes free shots and exclusive drink discounts. You’ll just need your ID for venue entry.

Can I join if I’m traveling solo?
Absolutely. The guides make an effort to include everyone, and the lively atmosphere tends to be very welcoming for solo travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 5 hours, starting at a time that varies with availability. You’ll visit at least five venues in that span.

Is it suitable for under 18s?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, as it involves alcohol and venue entry at the discretion of bouncers.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is usually fine—just dress comfortably for a night out. Some venues might have dress codes, but generally, casual is acceptable.

How do I find the meeting point?
You meet your guide inside the Pilgrim Bar at 3 Robertson’s Close. If you’re unsure, ask the bar staff to point out your guide.

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

In the end, this Edinburgh bar crawl offers a laid-back, social way to enjoy the city’s nightlife. It’s best suited for those who want a fun night out without fuss, and who value good company, drink deals, and some memorable photos. If that sounds like your kind of evening, it might be worth giving it a shot.

You can check availability for your dates here: