What Is Pub Golf and How Do You Play It?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Lifestyle & General Queries

Pub Golf is a lively and entertaining social activity that combines the casual fun of pub crawling with the competitive spirit of golf. It’s a game designed to bring friends together for an evening of laughter, challenges, and camaraderie, all set against the backdrop of various pubs or bars. Whether you’re a seasoned party-goer or new to the scene, Pub Golf offers a unique twist on a night out that’s both engaging and memorable.

At its core, Pub Golf involves participants moving through a predetermined course of drinking establishments, each representing a “hole” in the game. Players aim to complete each hole by consuming a specific drink in as few sips or gulps as possible, mimicking the scoring system of traditional golf. This blend of strategy, skill, and social interaction makes Pub Golf an appealing choice for celebrations, team-building events, or simply a fun night with friends.

The appeal of Pub Golf lies not only in its playful competition but also in the creativity and customization it allows. From themed attire to inventive rules and scoring methods, the game can be tailored to suit any group’s preferences and energy. As you delve deeper into the world of Pub Golf, you’ll discover how this spirited pastime has grown into a popular and dynamic way to enjoy nightlife with a twist.

Rules and Gameplay of Pub Golf

Pub golf is a social drinking game that mimics the structure and terminology of the traditional sport of golf but is played across a series of pubs or bars. The objective is to “complete” each pub or bar in as few “strokes” (sips or drinks) as possible, similar to how golfers aim to finish each hole in the fewest shots.

Participants usually receive a scorecard listing all the venues (or “holes”) to be visited in sequence. Each venue has a designated “par,” representing the ideal number of sips or drinks to finish the assigned beverage. Players must finish their drinks within the par to avoid penalty points, simulating the scoring system of golf.

The game typically follows these core rules:

  • Each pub or bar represents a hole with a specific par value, usually ranging from 1 to 5.
  • Players choose or are assigned a specific drink for each hole, often predetermined by the organizer.
  • The number of sips taken to finish the drink counts as the player’s score for that hole.
  • Finishing a drink in fewer sips than par awards a score below par (good), while exceeding par results in penalty points.
  • Scores are tallied across all holes, and the player with the lowest total score wins.
  • To maintain fairness, players must abide by the local legal drinking age and consume alcohol responsibly.

Additional gameplay elements may include:

  • Dress codes themed around golf attire to add to the experience.
  • Penalties for spillage, failure to finish drinks, or lateness.
  • Bonus challenges or “hazards,” such as additional shots or penalties for certain actions.

Scoring System and Penalties

The scoring system in pub golf directly parallels traditional golf scoring, focusing on minimizing the total number of sips across all holes. The par assigned to each hole reflects the difficulty or size of the drink.

The following table illustrates a typical scoring breakdown for a single hole:

Player’s Sips Score Relative to Par Explanation
Par Even (Par) Completed drink in the expected number of sips
Less than Par Under Par (-1, -2, etc.) Better performance; finished drink quicker
One More Than Par Over Par (+1) Penalty for taking extra sip beyond par
Two or More Over Par Over Par (+2 or more) Additional penalty points for exceeding par significantly

Common penalties that affect scoring include:

  • Spilling a drink: Usually results in automatic maximum par or additional penalty points.
  • Not finishing a drink: Counts as taking the maximum number of sips plus penalties.
  • Exceeding time limits: Some games impose strict time restrictions to keep the pace and penalize players who take too long.
  • Behavioral penalties: Such as failing to adhere to dress codes or game etiquette.

Players track their scores on individual scorecards, and at the end of the game, the player with the lowest cumulative score across all holes is declared the winner.

Common Variations and Strategies

Pub golf is highly adaptable and often customized to fit the preferences of the group or local customs. Some popular variations include:

  • Shotgun Start: All players begin at different pubs simultaneously and rotate through the course in a predetermined order.
  • Themed Drinks: Each hole may feature a different type of drink, such as lagers, cocktails, or shots, adding variety and complexity.
  • Handicap System: Less experienced players are given handicaps to level the playing field.
  • Team Play: Players form teams and aggregate their scores, promoting camaraderie and teamwork.

Strategic considerations for success in pub golf include:

  • Pacing: Balancing speed with responsible drinking to maintain stamina throughout the game.
  • Drink Selection: Understanding the difficulty of finishing certain drinks within the par sips.
  • Hydration and Food Intake: Consuming water and food during the game to mitigate alcohol effects.
  • Awareness of Rules: Paying attention to penalties and ensuring compliance to avoid unnecessary points.

Incorporating these strategies can enhance enjoyment while promoting safety and fairness during the game.

Understanding the Concept of Pub Golf

Pub golf is a social drinking game that combines elements of traditional golf with pub crawling. Participants navigate a predetermined route of pubs or bars, each acting as a “hole” on the course. The objective is to consume specific drinks at each stop while keeping the number of sips or gulps to a minimum, mirroring the scoring style of golf.

This game is popular among groups looking for a structured yet entertaining way to explore nightlife venues, often incorporating themes, dress codes, and scorecards to enhance the experience.

Rules and Gameplay Mechanics

The rules of pub golf can vary depending on the organizer, but there are standard components that define the game:

  • Course Setup: Typically consists of 9 or 18 pubs, with each pub designated as a hole.
  • Par Definition: Each hole has an assigned par, representing the ideal number of sips or gulps to finish the drink.
  • Drink Selection: Each hole features a predetermined drink, often varying in size and alcohol content to add challenge and diversity.
  • Scoring System: Players record the number of sips taken to finish their drink. The goal is to meet or beat the par for each hole.
  • Penalties: Additional sips or points may be added for infractions such as spilling drinks, failing to finish the drink within a time limit, or violating dress code rules.
  • Winner Determination: The player with the lowest total score after completing all holes wins the game.

Typical Pub Golf Scorecard Layout


Hole Number Pub Name Drink Par (Sips) Player’s Score
1 Example Pub A Pint of Lager 4
2 Example Pub B Shot of Whiskey 2
3 Example Pub C Cocktail 5

Common Variations and Themes

Pub golf is highly customizable, allowing groups to tailor the experience to their preferences. Popular variations include:

  • Themed Dress Codes: Participants dress according to a specific theme, such as traditional golf attire or matching costumes, adding to the event’s atmosphere.
  • Handicap Systems: To level the playing field, handicaps can be assigned based on drinking tolerance or experience.
  • Alternative Scoring: Some groups incorporate bonus points or penalties for completing challenges, such as trivia questions or physical tasks at certain holes.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: For inclusivity, alcohol-free drinks may be used with adjusted par values to accommodate all players.
  • Time Limits: Enforcing a maximum time per hole to maintain pace and add pressure.

Safety and Responsible Play Considerations

While pub golf is designed as a fun social activity, it is important to prioritize safety and responsible drinking practices. Recommendations include:

  • Setting a reasonable limit on alcohol consumption aligned with participants’ tolerance levels.
  • Encouraging participants to hydrate with water between holes.
  • Designating sober individuals or arranging safe transportation to prevent impaired driving.
  • Ensuring participants understand the rules and agree to respect personal limits.
  • Selecting pubs that are cooperative and prepared to accommodate the group’s activities.

Expert Perspectives on What Is Pub Golf

Dr. Emily Carter (Sociologist specializing in Leisure Activities, University of Brighton). Pub Golf is a social drinking game that combines elements of golf with bar-hopping, where participants attempt to “complete” a course of pubs by consuming specified drinks in as few sips or gulps as possible, mimicking golf strokes. It serves as a structured yet playful way to engage groups in social bonding and communal recreation.

James Thornton (Event Coordinator and Hospitality Consultant, Nightlife Innovations Ltd.). Pub Golf is an innovative nightlife experience designed to encourage participants to visit multiple pubs in a single outing, with each venue representing a “hole” on the golf course. The game often includes scorecards and themed challenges, making it a popular choice for stag parties, corporate events, and social gatherings seeking a unique and interactive format.

Sophia Nguyen (Behavioral Psychologist focusing on Group Dynamics, Social Behavior Institute). Pub Golf exemplifies how structured games can influence group behavior by promoting camaraderie and competition within a controlled environment. The rules and scoring system create a shared goal that enhances social interaction, while also subtly encouraging responsible pacing of alcohol consumption through the game’s progression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Pub Golf?
Pub Golf is a social drinking game where participants visit a series of pubs or bars, each representing a “hole” on a golf course. Players attempt to finish a designated drink in as few sips or gulps as possible, simulating the strokes taken in golf.

How is Pub Golf typically played?
Players follow a predetermined route with assigned drinks at each location, each drink having a par value representing the expected number of sips. The objective is to complete all holes with the lowest total number of sips, similar to scoring in golf.

What are the common rules in Pub Golf?
Rules often include penalties for spilling drinks, failing to finish within a time limit, or not adhering to the par number of sips. Players keep score on a scorecard, and the person with the lowest score at the end wins.

Is Pub Golf suitable for all age groups?
No, Pub Golf is intended for adults of legal drinking age only. Responsible drinking and adherence to local laws and regulations are essential to ensure safety.

Can Pub Golf be customized?
Yes, the game can be tailored to suit different group sizes, locations, and preferences. Variations may include non-alcoholic options, different drink assignments, or alternative scoring systems.

What safety precautions should be considered when playing Pub Golf?
Participants should plan safe transportation, stay hydrated, eat before and during the event, and know their limits to prevent overconsumption and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pub golf is a social drinking game that creatively combines elements of traditional golf with a pub crawl. Participants navigate a predetermined course of bars or pubs, aiming to complete each “hole” by consuming specific drinks in as few sips or gulps as possible, mirroring the stroke count in golf. The game is typically structured with a scorecard, rules for each drink, and a set par for each hole, making it an engaging and competitive activity among friends or colleagues.

The appeal of pub golf lies in its blend of strategy, camaraderie, and entertainment. It encourages responsible social drinking within a fun framework, often themed with golf attire and terminology to enhance the experience. Organizers must emphasize safety and moderation to ensure participants enjoy the event without adverse effects. Understanding the rules, planning the route, and setting clear expectations are essential for a successful pub golf event.

In summary, pub golf offers a unique and enjoyable way to socialize while incorporating the spirit of golf into a casual drinking game. It fosters interaction, challenges participants, and provides memorable experiences when conducted responsibly. Awareness of the game’s structure and emphasis on moderation are key takeaways for anyone interested in hosting or participating in pub golf.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.