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

If you’re heading to Edinburgh and looking to experience its lively nightlife, a guided bar crawl may just be your best bet. We’ve reviewed this popular tour to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what’s worth your attention, and whether it fits your style of exploring. While it’s not a perfect outing, it offers genuine opportunities to mingle, enjoy some free drinks, and capture the fun moments with a professional photographer.

Three things we love about this experience: the generous inclusion of free shots, the ease of skipping long lines at busy venues, and the chance to meet fellow travelers in a relaxed, fun setting. It’s a smart way to discover some of Edinburgh’s best Old Town bars without the hassle of planning each stop. A possible downside? The tour’s social nature might not appeal if you’re after a more quiet, intimate night out. But if you’re ready for a lively, sociable evening, this could be perfect.

This tour suits visitors who are keen to make new friends, enjoy a structured yet flexible night, and appreciate a good deal on drinks. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, it’s designed to make the night memorable—plus, it offers a taste of Edinburgh’s vibrant pub scene in a safe, organized format.

Good To Know

• Ideal for social travelers seeking a lively night out in Edinburgh’s Old Town
• Includes free shots, fast-track entry, and exclusive drink discounts
• Guides are friendly and help create an inclusive, fun atmosphere
• Capture memories with professional photos, available within 48 hours
• Duration of about 5 hours, with varying start times to fit your schedule
• Cost-effective at $11 per person, considering the perks included

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This bar crawl is a 5-hour guided tour through Edinburgh’s iconic Old Town, designed for those who want to experience the city’s nightlife without the hassle of organizing multiple venues. Starting at Pilgrim Bar, the guides lead you through at least five different bars and clubs, each with its unique vibe and atmosphere. It’s an excellent way to discover hidden gems that you might not find on your own, all while enjoying some exclusive deals.

The experience is geared toward making social connections. The guides—who are enthusiastic and approachable—actively encourage mingling, making introductions, and creating a friendly environment. Whether you come alone, with a partner, or a small group, you’re likely to find plenty of opportunities to chat, share stories, and enjoy the night.

The Venues and the Experience

The tour stops at a curated selection of Edinburgh’s best venues, including popular spots like Frankenstein, Ballie, and Bar Fifty, which have received praise for their lively atmospheres. Reviewers note that each bar offers a different vibe, from lively dance floors to cozy pubs, giving you a well-rounded taste of the city’s nightlife.

The guides, such as Shoub, Apurv, and TJ, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer highlighted how they “made everyone feel included” and facilitated introductions. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling solo or want to expand your social circle.

What Happens at Each Venue?

• Fast-track entry: No waiting in long lines, so you can maximize your time enjoying the drinks and atmosphere.
• Free shots: Each participant gets at least five shots during the night, enough to get the party started without getting overwhelmed.
• Exclusive deals: Discounted drinks are available, giving you more bang for your buck, especially when prices in Edinburgh can add up quickly.
• Photo capture: A professional photographer is on hand to take candid shots of your group, which are then accessible within 48 hours. These photos serve as fun keepsakes of your night out.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $11, you receive a lot of value:

• Fast-track entry to over five venues
• Free shots at each stop
• Exclusive drink discounts to stretch your budget
• Professional photos of your group
• A lively, inclusive guide to help facilitate connections

However, the tour does not include specific drinks or food, so you’ll want to keep some cash or cards handy for additional purchases outside the provided deals.

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The Practicalities

Meeting point: The tour begins inside Pilgrim Bar, with guides on hand to direct you. Remember to bring a valid ID, as entry to some venues is at the bouncers’ discretion. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan the rest of your evening.

Duration and timing: The tour runs for approximately 5 hours, but start times vary, so it’s worth checking availability. You’ll want to account for walking between venues, which is manageable given the close proximity within the Old Town.

Group size: While not explicitly stated, the reviews suggest a lively but manageable size, allowing for easy interaction and quick movement through venues.

What Our Reviewers Say

One reviewer, who traveled with friends, raved about the guides: “Shoub, Apurv, and TJ were great guides! Each pub provided a unique atmosphere.” They also appreciated the safety aspect, noting it’s “a safe, fantastic way to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife.” This echoes the overall sentiment that the guides help create a welcoming environment, which is vital when navigating unfamiliar venues.

Another mention was that the shots weren’t overwhelming—something important if you’re trying to pace yourself—making it a suitable option for those who want a fun night without overdoing it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re a social traveler wanting to meet new people in a lively setting. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a feel for Edinburgh’s nightlife without the stress of planning individual stops. If you’re budget-conscious, the included discounts and free shots make it a solid deal.

However, if you prefer quieter nights or don’t enjoy guided group settings, this might not be your best fit. Similarly, those looking for a more curated, private experience should explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh bar crawl offers a fun, affordable way to experience the city’s Old Town nightlife. With free shots, fast-track entry, and professional photos, it combines value with entertainment. The guides play a big part in making sure everyone feels included and has a good time, which enhances the overall experience.

While it’s not a party-forcing event, it’s perfect for those who enjoy socializing, discovering new venues, and capturing some great group photos. The 5-hour duration means you get an extensive look at Edinburgh’s vibrant bar scene without feeling rushed.

If you’re travelling alone or with friends and want a lively, organized night out, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a lively, well-priced option that balances fun with safety, making it a highlight for many visitors to Edinburgh.

FAQ

Does the tour include food?
No, the tour focuses on drinks and venues, but you’re free to purchase additional food outside the included deals.

What is the starting point?
The meeting point is inside Pilgrim Bar, 3 Robertson’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1LY. Guides will be there to meet you.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be 18 or older, and you need to bring valid ID for venue entry.

How long does the photo access take?
Photos are available within 48 hours after the tour.

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

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The guides foster an inclusive environment, making it easy to meet new people if you’re traveling alone.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, and some cash or card for extra purchases outside the tour perks.

How much does it cost?
It’s priced at $11 per person, offering great value considering the inclusions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, since the venues are within the Old Town and the focus is on walking between bars, it’s best to check directly with the provider if you have specific accessibility needs.

In all, this guided bar crawl provides a lively, affordable night out in Edinburgh’s historic heart, perfect for mingling, tasting, and capturing memories—all within a well-organized framework designed to maximize enjoyment.

You can check if your dates are available here: