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

Planning a night out in Edinburgh? This pub crawl experience promises a lively mix of bars, free shots, exclusive deals, and dancing until dawn. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s worth your evening.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to skip queues with VIP access, the chance to meet international travelers, and the fun, interactive challenges that keep the energy high. The cost of just $16 per person for a six-hour night of drinks and dancing seems quite reasonable, especially considering the included free shots and exclusive deals.

However, a potential downside is the variable quality of the venues—some reviewers noted that the pubs were just “okay to nice,” and the tour guide, at times, appeared disengaged, focusing more on a friend than the group. So, if you’re after a highly curated or intimate experience, this might not be your perfect pick.

This tour generally suits social butterflies, solo travelers, or groups eager for a fun, low-pressure night. If you’re looking to party, meet new people, and experience Edinburgh’s nightlife without fuss, this pub crawl could very well be your best bet.

Good To Know

• Affordable for a 6-hour night out with drinks, games, and dancing.
• Skip the queues with VIP access at top Edinburgh venues.
• Includes 7 free shots and some exclusive drink discounts.
• Great for solo travelers and groups wanting a lively, social experience.
• Venue quality varies, so expectations should be flexible.
• Ends in a lively club perfect for dancing and late-night fun.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting Point: Kick Ass Greyfriars

The adventure begins at Kick Ass Greyfriars on Cowgate, right in the heart of the city. The name alone hints at the fun you’re about to have. Your check-in kicks off at 7:30 PM, with the hosts wearing bright Ebrius T-shirts—hard to miss amidst the vibrant Edinburgh nightlife scene. Arriving early is recommended, because the first free shot is part of the deal, and the sooner you start, the more you can enjoy the chaos ahead.

Venue 1-3: The First Bars

The first few stops are meant to ease you into the night, with the hosts providing friendly guidance and playful drinking games. These venues are usually lively but not overly crowded, allowing some interaction and mingling. The free welcome shot at each bar keeps spirits high from the get-go, with some places offering additional drink deals that help stretch your penny further.

Mid-Point: Exploration and Challenges

As you move through seven bars, the tour becomes more than just drinking. Expect fun challenges and icebreakers that make the group giggle and loosen up. The guide’s role here is to keep the vibe upbeat, although one review notes that their engagement can be inconsistent—at times, the guide was more interested in a friend than the group.

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The Final Stop: The Club

After the bar-hopping, the tour culminates in a popular nightclub. This is where the party truly heats up with loud music and a packed dance floor. Dancing here is inevitable, and it’s the ideal place to let your hair down after a night of socializing and drinking.

What You Can Expect at Each Venue

Skip the queues: One of the biggest benefits is avoiding long waits, thanks to VIP entry at some venues. This means more time for drinking, chatting, and partying rather than waiting around.

Drinks and deals: The 7 free shots are a nice perk, especially as they set the tone for the night. At selected venues, you’ll also find exclusive drink deals, so you can keep your spending in check while maintaining your buzz.

Games and challenges: From silly drinking games to icebreaker challenges, the activities are designed to keep the energy lively and help you connect with strangers. One reviewer mentioned the challenges as “ridiculous,” but fun, adding an unpredictable element to the night.

Group dynamic: The tour attracts a mix of students, travelers, and locals all eager to enjoy Edinburgh’s nightlife. While some may find the group size too big or the guide a tad distracted, most will enjoy the lively, social atmosphere.

The Cost-Value Breakdown

At $16 per person for six hours, this pub crawl offers a lot of value. The inclusion of 7 free shots alone is a significant perk, especially considering the typical cost of drinks in Edinburgh. When combined with VIP access and exclusive discounts, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the city’s nightlife without worrying about the logistics of each venue.

However, the quality of venues can vary, meaning that if you’re expecting high-end pubs or curated experiences, you might be disappointed. Still, for those who prioritize fun, socializing, and meeting new people, this price point is quite fair.

The Group Experience and Atmosphere

The tour generally attracts a mixed crowd, including solo travelers, groups of friends, and international visitors. The social aspect is a big selling point, with many noting the opportunity to make new friends and share wild stories. The party games and challenges inject humor and camaraderie, even if the guide’s engagement is sometimes uneven.

The atmosphere is relaxed but energetic, with plenty of opportunities for selfies, laughs, and dance-offs. The ending in a lively club ensures that the party doesn’t fizzle out too quickly, giving you ample time to dance your night away.

Practical Tips for a Great Night

• Arrive on time: The tour starts promptly at 8:15 PM, and arriving late means missing out on that first free shot.
• Bring your ID: A passport or driver’s license is required to prove you’re 18+.
• Dress casually but neatly: Some venues are strict about attire—avoid flip-flops, sportswear, or open-toed shoes.
• Charge your phone: You’ll want to capture memories and stay connected.
• Be open-minded: Venues may be mixed in quality, but the overall vibe is fun and festive.
• Solo travelers: Don’t worry—you’ll find plenty of people to chat with and probably leave with new friends.

Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

This pub crawl is ideal for young travelers, students, or groups seeking a lively, no-fuss night out. If you’re after a way to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each venue, this tour offers a straightforward, fun-filled evening.

It’s less suited for those seeking a more refined or intimate evening, or anyone who expects a highly curated experience. Also, if you’re part of a stag or hen party, you’ll need to arrange a private crawl, as this experience explicitly excludes those groups.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh pub crawl offers a cost-effective, energetic way to enjoy the city’s nightlife. With VIP access, free shots, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to turn a weekday into a memorable party.

The experience is best suited for adventurous, social travelers who don’t mind the unpredictability of venue quality and occasional guide distraction. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Edinburgh’s vibrant bar scene, especially if you’re visiting solo or with friends.

Remember, like any group tour, it’s what you make of it: bring your party spirit, keep an open mind, and you’re in for a wild night of drinks, games, and dancing.

FAQ

Can I join if I’m under 18?
No, you must be 18 or older to participate, and you’ll need to show valid identification.

What should I bring?
A valid passport or driver’s license is required. Don’t forget your phone for selfies and a charged device for the night.

Are there any dress code restrictions?
Yes, casual attire is fine, but avoid sportswear or flip-flops, as some venues are selective.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers join these tours to meet people and enjoy Edinburgh’s nightlife in a social setting.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 6 hours, starting around 8:15 PM, ending in a busy nightclub.

What’s included in the price?
Entry to 7 bars, 7 free welcome shots, some exclusive drink deals, a fun guide, and party games.

Are there any restrictions on groups?
Yes, stag and hen groups are not accepted unless you arrange a private crawl directly with the provider.

What’s the main downside?
Venue quality can vary, and at times, guides might be less engaged, so expectations should be flexible.

To sum it up, this pub crawl provides an energetic, budget-friendly way to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife. It’s perfect for those wanting a fun, social night out with minimal planning, especially if you’re eager to meet new friends and dance into the early hours. Just bring your best party attitude—and your ID!

You can check if your dates are available here: