How to Do a Pub Crawl: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re going out on a low-key night with friends, planning a party for a special occasion, or celebrating the end of an exam, a pub crawl is an ideal way to have fun while exploring different places. Pub crawls are a popular, easy, and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by adults of all ages.

But what is a pub crawl exactly? A pub crawl is a social event in which two or more people go from one drinking establishment to another, with drinks being consumed along the way. A pub crawl can either be planned in advance or organically come together as the evening progresses. Pub crawls can also be tailored for specific events or holidays, such as St. Patrick’s Day or Halloween.

No matter how you organize it, a pub crawl can be an enjoyable and entertaining way to spend an evening. Ready to take your next outing up a notch? Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to do a pub crawl.

Choose Your Partners

The first step in organizing a successful pub crawl is to choose who you want to invite. A pub crawl is typically an adult event, so depending on your local laws, you’ll want to make sure everyone in your group is at least 21 years old.

In terms of group size, that’s totally up to you and the size of your venues. Depending on the number of bars and pubs you’d like to visit, an ideal group size for a pub crawl is anywhere from four to twelve people. Make sure you decide on an even number because some pubs and bars may require patrons to pair up to get in.

Make a List of Bars and Pubs

The next step is planning your pubs and bars route. The best way to do this is by making a list of all of the places you want to include on your pub crawl. This will help you determine how much time and money you need for the evening and how close each stop is together. Make sure to include all the information about each venue, such as its location, opening hours, and types of drinks offered.

Set a Budget

Once you’ve decided on the venues, it’s time to determine your budget. An essential part of successfully executing a pub crawl is setting a budget to prevent overspending and can even help control the overall flow of your event. In addition to covering food and drinks, you might also want to include money for taxi rides or transportation in between the venues.

Set the Rules

Another important factor in planning a safe and successful pub crawl is setting rules both before and during the evening. This helps ensure everyone sticks together and makes sure that everyone participates in the evening responsibly. By setting individual limits on drinks consumed and having at least one designated person in charge of keeping track of people drinking, you can feel good knowing that everyone will enjoy the evening safely.

Designate Transportation

When it comes time to actually go from one bar to the next, it’s important that you plan out how you’re going to do so responsibly. Public transportation, walking, or having someone in the group designated as a driver are all great ways to get around throughout the night. Make sure that no one drives when they shouldn’t: designate drivers in advance or plan ahead for taxi rides or public transportation in between venues.

Get Creative

Finally, planning a fun pub crawl doesn’t have to just be about drinking—get creative! You can make your pub crawl extra special by organizing mini-games or activities in between bars, adding a themed element such as 80s music or costumes, or even trying out some new beers or cocktails at each venue. The options are only limited by your imagination!

Enjoy Responsibly

Remember: A pub crawl should always be enjoyed responsibly! Make sure everyone has eaten before heading out and plan ahead for rides home so no one has to worry about driving after drinking. Planning out these details ahead of time can ensure that you have the most fun possible while keeping your group safe during an exciting night on the town!

Insider’s Guide to a Pub Crawl in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is not just famous for its iconic Edinburgh Castle or its renowned festivals. It is also home to a diverse array of historic drinking establishments, with pubs that date back to the 14th century. If you are looking for a unique way of exploring this city, then why not embark on a pub crawl? Here is a step-by-step guide to the best pubs in Edinburgh and some local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your itinerary unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Explore Hidden Gems

While Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile are must-visit spots, there are many hidden gems scattered around the city that locals love to visit. One of these is the Dean Village, a picturesque area located on the Water of Leith, where you can take a walk along the riverside and marvel at the colorful buildings. Another hidden gem is Mary King’s Close, a warren of subterranean streets and tenement buildings that offer an insight into what life was like in the Old Town during the 17th century. And if you are a fan of Harry Potter, then you cannot miss The Elephant House, the café where author J.K. Rowling wrote some of the early drafts of her Harry Potter books.

Dining Spots: Savor Local Cuisine

Edinburgh is famous for its whisky, haggis, and fresh seafood. For a taste of traditional Scottish cuisine, head to The Witchery, located in a historic building on the Royal Mile. For a budget-friendly option, try MUMS Great Comfort Food, which serves up hearty Scottish dishes such as macaroni cheese and battered haggis. If you are craving something sweet, then stop by Mary’s Milk Bar for some artisanal ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. And if you are looking for a drink to accompany your meal, then try a pint of Belhaven Best, the city’s favorite beer.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the City’s Traditions

One of the best cultural experiences in Edinburgh is attending a ceilidh, a Scottish dance party, where you can learn some traditional reels and jigs. You can also visit the Scottish National Gallery, which showcases both international and Scottish artworks, including paintings by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, as well as the Scottish National Museum, which features exhibits on the country’s history and culture. If you have the chance to visit during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year’s Eve celebration, then do not miss the opportunity to join in the festivities and experience the city’s vibrant culture.

Local History: Discover Captivating Stories

Edinburgh has a rich and fascinating history, filled with duels, murders, and ghost stories. Visit the grave of Greyfriars Bobby, a faithful dog who guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years, or take a historical walking tour of the Old Town to learn about the city’s many dark and mysterious tales. You can also visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where Mary, Queen of Scots, once lived and where modern-day monarchs still reside when they visit the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Make It Unforgettable

For a unique and unforgettable experience, head to The Pitt, a street food market that pops up every Saturday with a mix of international and local cuisines. You can also take a ghost tour of the Edinburgh Vaults, a network of underground chambers once used for storage that are now said to be haunted. For something more relaxing, visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, where you can admire over 70 acres of beautiful plants and flowers, or climb Arthur’s Seat, a 251m-high hill that offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

In conclusion, Edinburgh has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and pub crawls. With this insider’s guide, you can experience the city’s hidden gems, savor traditional cuisine, immerse yourself in local traditions and culture, discover captivating stories from its past, and try some off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Make sure to take your time and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer.