Best Pub Golf Drinking Game Courses in the UK and USA

Get ready for a night of laughter, competition, and memorable antics with pub golf, the ultimate drinking game that combines the fun of pub crawls with the challenge of golf. Whether you’re planning a stag do, a group outing, or just a fun night with friends, pub golf offers a unique and hilarious way to enjoy your evening. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about pub golf, from the rules and penalties to the best locations and safety tips. We’ll also explore related games like beer golf, pub crawl, and beer scramble to ensure your night is packed with excitement.

What is Pub Golf? 

Pub Golf, also known as Beer Golf, is a social drinking game that combines the structure of a golf course with the fun of a pub crawl. Players navigate a series of pubs, each representing a “hole,” where they must complete a drinking challenge in as few “strokes” (sips) as possible. Players dress in golf attire, complete with flat caps and patterned vests, adding to the festive atmosphere. Originating from the UK, Pub Golf has gained popularity worldwide for its blend of strategy, social interaction, and spirited competition.

How to Play a Pub Golf Drinking Game?

To play pub golf, you’ll need the following:

• Golf attire: Flat caps, argyle sweaters, and patterned vests
• Scorecards: To keep track of each player’s “strokes”
• A course: Choose 9 or 18 pubs to serve as your “holes”

Setting Up the Pub Golf Game Course:

1. Choose 9 or 18 pubs to visit.
2. Assign a par (the number of sips or gulps) for each drink at each pub.
3. Designate someone to carry a copy of the rules.

Rules and Scoring:

1. Players take a sip or gulp for each stroke, aiming to finish their drink within the par.
2. Record the number of strokes on the scorecard.
3. The player with the fewest strokes at the end wins.
4. Breaking rules or not finishing drinks in par results in penalties.

Example of a Pub Golf Night: Start at your first pub, where the par might be 4 sips to finish a pint. If you take 5 sips, you score 1 over par. Move on to the next pub, continuing this pattern until all pubs have been visited.

Pub Golf Rules and Penalties

Basic Rules:

1. Follow the predetermined course of pubs.
2. Finish your drink in the assigned number of sips or gulps.
3. Keep track of your strokes on the scorecard.

Common Penalties:

1. Water Hazard: If a player needs to use the bathroom at a designated “water hazard” pub, they add 1 point.
2. Bunker Hazard: Failing to drink within par results in drinking a shot and adding 1 point.
3. Spilling Drinks: Spilling your or another’s drink adds 3 points.
4. Cheating: Lying about strokes adds 5 points.
5. Vomiting: Adding 10 points if a player throws up.

Fun Penalty Ideas:

• Silly Challenges: Perform a dance or sing a song.
• Embarrassing Outfits: Wear a funny hat for the rest of the night.

Variations of Pub Golf: Beer Golf, Pub Crawl, Beer Scramble

Beer Golf:

• Similar to pub golf but focuses on beer-only drinks.
• Rules and scoring remain the same.

Pub Crawl:

• A less structured version where the goal is simply to visit as many pubs as possible.

Beer Scramble:

• Teams compete to finish drinks fastest.
• Combine elements of relay races with drinking challenges.

Key Differences:

• Pub golf has structured rules and scoring.
• Pub crawl is more about the experience than competition.
• Beer scramble adds a team dynamic and speed element.

Best Locations for Pub Golf and Bar Golf

Best Pub Golf Locations in the UK

The UK is home to some of the best locations for pub golf, offering a mix of historic charm and vibrant nightlife.

1. London: The bustling streets of Soho and Shoreditch are packed with a variety of pubs, perfect for an exciting pub golf course.
2. Edinburgh: The Royal Mile, with its historic pubs and lively atmosphere, provides a unique setting for the game.
3. Manchester: The Northern Quarter is known for its trendy bars and vibrant nightlife, making it an excellent choice for pub golf.
4. Birmingham: The lively Broad Street area offers numerous pubs and bars ideal for a fun-filled pub golf night.
5. Leeds: The Otley Run, an infamous pub crawl route through Headingley, is perfect for pub golf enthusiasts looking for a challenging and memorable experience.

Classic card drinking games like Ring of Fire are huge in the UK. Try twisting pub golf into a pub crawl for a fun way to dive into UK pub culture, even if you’re not a golf fan!

Best Pub Golf Locations in the USA

The USA boasts some of the best locations for a thrilling night of bar golf, combining vibrant nightlife with unique bar scenes. 

1. New York City: The eclectic mix of bars in the East Village and Lower East Side provides a perfect backdrop for an exciting bar golf course.
2. Chicago: Wrigleyville offers a lively atmosphere with numerous pubs and sports bars ideal for the game.
3. Austin, Texas: Known for its vibrant music and bar scene, especially on Sixth Street, it makes for an unforgettable bar golf experience.
4. San Francisco: The Mission District, with its diverse and trendy bars, is another excellent choice for bar golf.
5. New Orleans: The French Quarter, with its historic charm and bustling nightlife, offers an unparalleled setting for bar golf enthusiasts looking to mix fun with culture.

Tips for Choosing Pub Golf Locations

Choosing the right pubs or bars for your pub golf game is crucial to ensure a fun and memorable night. Here are some tips to help you select the best locations:

1. Proximity: Choose pubs that are within walking distance of each other to make transitions between holes easy and quick. This helps maintain the flow of the game and keeps everyone engaged.
2. Variety: Select a mix of pubs with different atmospheres and drink options. Include lively bars with music and quieter, more relaxed pubs to provide a balanced experience.
3. Capacity: Ensure the pubs can accommodate your group size. Avoid small, crowded venues that might struggle to serve a large party efficiently.
4. Drink Specials: Look for pubs that offer drink specials or happy hour deals. This can make the game more affordable and add an extra layer of fun with unique drink options.
5. Theme Compatibility: Choose pubs that fit well with the theme of your pub golf night. For instance, if you’re going for a classic golf attire theme, pubs with a more traditional or sports bar vibe can enhance the experience.
6. Safety: Consider the safety of the locations, especially if the pub golf night will run late into the evening. Ensure the area is well-lit and known for being safe for night-time activities.
7. Accessibility: Check for pubs that are easily accessible by public transport or close to taxi ranks to ensure everyone can get home safely at the end of the night.
8. Local Favorites: Include some local favorite spots that are well-regarded for their ambiance and service. These venues often offer a unique charm and a welcoming atmosphere.
9. Signature Drinks: Select pubs known for their signature drinks or specialties. This adds a fun twist to the game as participants can try unique beverages at each stop.

Enjoy the Pub Golf Drinking Game for an Unforgettable Night

In the world of Pub Golf, every sip counts and every laugh echoes. Whether you’re aiming for the lowest score or simply enjoying the journey, Pub Golf is about creating memories with friends. So gather your team, don your best golf attire, and hit the pubs for a night that promises to be as entertaining as it is unforgettable. Remember, the real winner is the one who has the most fun—responsibly, of course!