Edinburgh: 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts

If you’re looking to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife beyond the usual tourist spots, this pub crawl offers a compelling way to see the city through the local lens. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from hundreds of reviewers, it’s clear that many find this tour both fun and value-packed. But does it live up to the hype?

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to visit 7 diverse venues in one night, enjoy 7 complimentary shots expertly chosen by the guide, and access VIP entry and discounts that save you money. The chance to skip the lines at all venues is another major perk, especially in a bustling city like Edinburgh.

One potential consideration is the group size and pace, which could feel rushed or crowded for some. Also, since most of the drinks are shots, it’s wise to pace yourself if you want to stay on your feet until the end.

This tour is best suited for solo travelers, groups of friends, or couples eager to meet new people, explore Edinburgh’s nightlife, and have a lively, structured evening. It’s not ideal for those who prefer a quieter night or have limited alcohol tolerance.

Good To Know

• Diverse Venues: Visit 7 different bars, clubs, and live music spots across Edinburgh.
• Alcohol Perks: Enjoy 7 free shots at handpicked venues plus discounts up to 25% on drinks.
• Skip-the-line Access: No queues or cover charges at all stops, saving you time and money.
• Popular Guide Service: Well-reviewed guides like Ál and Belle make the experience engaging.
• Flexible & Convenient: Duration of around 5 hours with multiple starting times.
• Authentic Social Scene: A great way to meet fellow travelers from around the world.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on This Edinburgh Pub Crawl

The Itinerary and Venues

The tour kicks off at The Tron bar, where guests check in with staff holding a large sign. From there, the journey takes you through seven carefully selected venues—ranging from traditional pubs to lively live music venues and clubs, with the final stop typically concluding back at the meeting point.

Each venue is chosen for its local character and vibrant atmosphere. For example, reviewers mention visiting places like Frankenstein, Revolution, and Stramasho, with some stops requiring an additional drink purchase to receive the free shot—something to keep in mind if you’re trying to maximize the free drinks. One review notes, “Three of the seven bars needed us to buy another drink to receive the free shot,” so pace yourself accordingly.

The Shots and Drink Deals

At each venue, you get a handpicked free shot, which adds a fun element and allows you to sample different spirits or flavors. The shots are a highlight for many, with travelers mentioning “free shots at most bars” and “discounted drinks all night.” The discounts can be up to 25%, making this a smart way to stretch your drinking budget.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

The guides, such as Ál and Belle, consistently receive praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and ability to keep the group energized. One reviewer mentions, “Bell was so nice and really great at getting everyone hyped up,” highlighting how a good guide enhances the experience.

Group sizes seem to be large enough to meet new people but manageable enough for the guide to keep everyone together. Many travelers comment on meeting international friends and enjoying the lively, sociable atmosphere. Some even say, “This was my first pub crawl, and I had an absolutely brilliant time.”

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Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts around 5 hours, which is generous enough to explore the bars comfortably without feeling rushed. Starting times vary, so check availability to plan your night accordingly. The pace is lively but flexible—if you find a venue particularly appealing, you can often stay longer.

Entry and Queues

One of the best aspects of this pub crawl is the skip-the-line access. No long waits or cover charges mean you spend more time enjoying drinks and music rather than queuing. This is especially valuable in Edinburgh, where popular spots can get crowded.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Social

As many reviewers point out, this isn’t just about drinking; it’s about the vibe and social connections. Guide-led events like this are tailored to make newcomers feel at ease, with guides often acting as hosts and storytellers.

One participant described the experience as “a great way to visit the local pubs and meet new people,” emphasizing how the tour balances sightseeing, drinking, and socializing. Another noted, “It was all really fun and I’d recommend it to other visitors.”

Authentic Local Flair

The selected venues are praised for their authenticity, giving travelers a taste of Edinburgh’s local pub scene rather than tourist traps. Some stops feature live music, adding to the lively ambiance. The guide’s knowledge about each venue’s history and vibe enhances the experience, making it more than just a drinking tour.

Value for Money

At $16 per person, this tour offers significant value, especially considering the 7 free shots, VIP entry, and discounts. When you factor in the time spent at multiple venues, this is a cost-efficient way to enjoy a night out. Reviewers often mention how they appreciated the inclusions, especially when compared to paying cover charges or buying individual drinks.

Practical Tips for Your Night Out

• Pace Yourself: While shots are fun, they add up quickly. Drinking water and eating in between can help keep your energy levels high.
• Bring ID: You’ll need your passport or ID card for age verification and possibly to claim discounts.
• Arrive on Time: Meeting at The Tron bar ensures a smooth start. Latecomers might miss out on some of the initial fun.
• Group Size: Expect to be part of a lively group—perfect for socializing and making friends.
• Duration: The 5-hour window gives you ample time to enjoy without feeling rushed.
• Stay Safe: The best nights are when you drink responsibly and know your limits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pub crawl is ideal for solo travelers eager to meet others, groups of friends celebrating, or couples seeking a fun way to explore Edinburgh’s nightlife. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and are comfortable with a bit of drinking.

If you prefer quieter, more relaxed evenings or are sensitive to alcohol, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone wanting an energetic, social, and authentic experience, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Edinburgh pub crawl offers a well-organized, sociable, and value-packed way to explore the city’s nightlife. With its diverse venues, knowledgeable guides, and generous perks like free shots and skip-the-line access, it provides a memorable night out for a reasonable price.

You’ll love the opportunity to try different drinks, meet people from across the globe, and enjoy Edinburgh’s vibrant bar scene without the hassle of planning each stop. Its relaxed yet lively pace makes it especially good for newcomers or first-time visitors.

However, keep in mind that the experience is geared toward energetic, social nights with a focus on drinks. If that aligns with your travel style, this tour will be an excellent addition to your Edinburgh itinerary.

FAQ

How many venues will I visit?
You’ll visit 7 bars, clubs, or live music venues, each offering a unique part of Edinburgh’s nightlife.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you receive 7 free shots at handpicked venues, and there are up to 25% discounts on other drinks.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best to dress casually but neatly—think comfortable shoes and smart casual attire for a fun night.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 5 hours, with the start times varying so check availability.

Do I need to pay additional cover charges?
No, all venues provide free entry, and you skip queues, so no extra cover charges apply.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Mostly geared toward those who enjoy drinking and socializing, so non-drinkers might find limited appeal unless they’re happy to participate in the social scene.

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

Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for a weekend or just looking for a fun night with friends, this pub crawl packs a lot of value and energy into a manageable evening. You’ll come away with more than just memories—perhaps some new friends, a few stories, and a new appreciation for Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.

You can check if your dates are available here: