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

Edinburgh’s Best Bar Crawl: Free Shots, Discounts, Photos – A Practical Guide

If you’re heading to Edinburgh and want to experience its nightlife in a lively, social way, a bar crawl might be your best bet. Priced at just $11 per person for around five hours, this tour takes you through at least five of the city’s top venues in the Old Town, with fast-track entry, free shots, and exclusive drink deals. Led by energetic guides, it’s designed to help you meet new friends and soak in the local atmosphere with ease.

What we love about this experience is how inclusive and fun it sounds—especially with a professional photographer capturing the night’s moments. The guides make sure everyone feels part of the group, whether you’re traveling alone or with friends. It’s a simple way to get a taste of Edinburgh’s nightlife without the hassle of planning every stop yourself.

One thing to consider is that the tour is about five hours long, so it’s best suited for those ready for a lively, social evening. Also, you’ll need to bring your passport or ID for venue entry, as bouncers are strict about identification. If you’re looking for a relaxed way to meet people, try new bars, and enjoy some local drinks, this bar crawl should definitely be on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is perfect if you enjoy socializing with strangers, want to explore Edinburgh’s Old Town, and value the ease of guided pub hopping. It appeals especially to solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone keen on a safe, fun, and well-organized night out.

For more beverage-focused experiences, here's what we've covered in Edinburgh

Key Points

Affordable price: At $11, you get a lot of value including multiple venues, free shots, and discounts.
Inclusive atmosphere: Guides encourage mingling and help everyone feel part of the group.
Photographic memories: A professional photographer captures the night, giving you photos to remember.
Fast-track entry: Skip lines at popular venues, saving time and hassle.
Multiple venues: Visit at least five distinctive bars and clubs in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Social experience: Ideal for solo travelers or groups wanting a lively night out.

A Detailed Look at Edinburgh’s Best Bar Crawl

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For just $11, this tour provides fast-track entry into over five venues, meaning you won’t waste precious time waiting in line. That alone offers great value, especially in a city like Edinburgh where busy nights can mean long waits. The inclusion of free shots and exclusive drinks discounts enhances the experience, giving you a chance to try different beverages without breaking the bank.

The on-hand photographer is a neat touch. You might be the one taking selfies all night, but this professional ensures you’ll have high-quality photos from the event, which you’ll access within 48 hours. It’s a fun souvenir and a way to remember the night authentically.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary and Venues

The guides take you to at least five venues in Edinburgh’s vibrant Old Town. While the specific bars aren’t listed, reviews mention stops like Frankenstein, Ballie, and Bar Fifty—each offering a different atmosphere. Expect a mix of lively pubs, stylish clubs, and perhaps some quirky or themed venues that reflect Edinburgh’s diverse nightlife scene.

Each stop is chosen for its unique vibe, ensuring you’re not just visiting the same type of place repeatedly. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your evening afterward or continue exploring on your own.

Want to capture memories? We've looked into these other photo experiences in Edinburgh

Guides and Group Dynamics

Our review from a recent traveler praises guides like Shoub, Apurv, and TJ, calling them great and noting how they made everyone feel included. They actively encourage mingling, which is ideal if you’re traveling solo or just want to expand your social circle. The guides’ enthusiasm and attention pay off; many travelers say they met amazing new friends along the way.

The Experience

Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere with the guides leading the way through Edinburgh’s lively night scene. The free shots are well-received, with reviews describing them as manageable and fun. The venue selections allow you to enjoy different atmospheres, from casual pubs to more energetic clubs.

The photo service gets high marks, with travelers like the one who said, “Each pub provided a unique atmosphere,” and appreciated that they “met some amazing new friends.” The tour offers a safe, structured way to experience the city’s nightlife, especially if it’s your first time in Edinburgh.

Practical Tips

Bring a valid passport or ID—venue entry is at the bouncers’ discretion.
Be prepared for a five-hour night; wear comfortable shoes.
Check the availability and starting times, as they vary.
If you’re traveling with kids or under 18, this isn’t suitable.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers may find the duration a bit long if they’re not used to extended nights out. Also, since the specific venues aren’t listed, you might want to research the locations beforehand if you’re particular about the kinds of bars you visit. But overall, the balance of guided ease and social interaction makes this a strong value proposition.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a solo traveler eager to mingle and explore, this tour offers a safe, friendly environment. It’s also ideal for groups wanting a hassle-free way to experience multiple venues. Beer, cocktails, and shots are part of the fun, but the focus on socializing and photos makes it more than just a pub crawl—it’s an opportunity to create memories.

It’s best suited for those aged 18 and over who enjoy lively nightlife and social outings. If you’re after a relaxed, quiet evening, this might not be your scene, but if you’re up for a fun, bustling night, it’s hard to beat the value.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $11 per person, which covers multiple venues, free shots, discounts, and a professional photographer.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about five hours, with starting times varying—check availability when booking.

Where does it start?
Meet your guide inside the Pilgrim Bar at 3 Robertson’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1LY. If you have trouble, ask the bar staff for help.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best to dress casually but neatly, suitable for bar and club entry.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a passport or ID card, as venue bouncers will check IDs.

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

Is this suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 18.

Will I meet new people?
Absolutely. Guides encourage mingling and group interaction, making it a perfect activity for solo travelers or groups.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh bar crawl offers an energetic, social way to experience the city’s nightlife with a clear focus on value and fun. For just over ten dollars, you get multiple venues, free shots, exclusive deals, and professional photos, all led by friendly guides who know how to make everyone feel comfortable.

It’s especially appealing if you love meeting new people and want an organized, hassle-free night out. The emphasis on inclusivity and the variety of venues makes it a memorable way to see Edinburgh after dark—without the stress of planning each pub visit yourself.

While it may not suit those looking for a quiet night or a detailed historical experience, it excels as a lively, social introduction to Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife scene. If you’re ready for a fun evening of drinks, new friends, and good stories, this tour could be your perfect starting point.