What is Pub Golf – How to Play this Drinking Game

Pub golf is a popular golf-themed drinking game for two or more players.*

Whether you’re an experienced amateur golfer like me or entirely new to golfing terminology, this article will guide you through the basics of pub golf, explain how to play the game, and show you how to finish your round with the best score.

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Pub Golf Explained

Pub golf mimics a real-life round of golf. You and your mates visit various pubs, which represent a ‘hole’ on the course. Each player tries to score the lowest number of sips (or ‘strokes’).

The game follows a planned course. Drink a specific drink at each pub while following the pre-written game rules. And you also negotiate hazards to avoid penalty strokes.

You get to dress up in golf clothing. Just try to keep steady, moving between each pub. It’s a memorable experience that combines golf, drinking, and a top night out with friends. Pub Golf is a great way to have a memorable night of real fun when not playing the real game of golf.

Pub Golf Basic Rules

Now let’s run through the main pub golf rules.

Number of Pubs (Holes)

A standard pub golf game means visiting 9 to 18 different pubs. Each venue is a “hole” and is associated with a specific drink (say a lager, spirit, or other alcohol based drink).

Designated Drinks

At each pub, there is a designated drink to consume, which will require a certain number of sips (strokes). For instance, a vodka shot may need 1 sip, whereas a pint of lager may need 3 sips, or a cocktail 5 sips.

These sips represent the ‘par’ score for the hole. In other words, the expected score.

Lowest Score Wins

The aim of the event in pub golf is to score the fewest sips possible. Just like in golf, each pub represents a hole, and you try to finish each hole in the fewest sips. Whoever achieves the lower score overall is the winner.

Write out a detailed pub golf scorecard before you start. Include on your scorecards the name of all the pubs, the number of drinks, par value and all information a player needs to complete their round.

Hazards

Much like the sport of golf, a pub golf course has hazards that can disrupt your flow. 

On a water hazard hole, you would incur a penalty stroke for using the toilet. Or a bunker hazard may ask you to take extra ‘penalty’ sips.

Modify the hazard rules and penalties to fit with your group’s dynamic and preferences.

Maintain the Pace

Timing is vital to pub golf success. Your group should aim to stay on schedule, moving at a consistent pace from one pub to the next pub. This can help you to avoid penalty strokes or distractions en route. Plan your route in advance to keep on the straight and narrow!

Dress Code

Unlike other drinking games, pub golf usually has a dress code. Golf-themed attire is expected. Wear a golf polo shirt, argyle sweater, khaki trousers or bottoms and golf shoes. Also consider accessories such as a visor or bringing inflatable golf clubs to fully immerse yourself in this social drinking game.

How to Play Pub Golf

Now we’ve covered the basics, here’s a more in-depth guide on how to play pub golf:

1: Plan Your Course

The key to a successful round of pub golf lies in planning a well-thought-out course. Choose a mix of pubs that offer a variety of atmospheres, from cozy locals to livelier spots, to keep the game engaging. Map out the route in advance, ensuring the pubs are within walking distance or easily accessible to avoid logistical hiccups.

Assign each “hole” a par (the number of sips or gulps needed to complete the drink), keeping difficulty levels reasonable to maintain the fun throughout the game. Consider dietary preferences and alcohol-free options for players who may prefer alternative beverages. With a carefully planned course, your pub golf game will flow smoothly, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

2: Drinks Choice 

Assign a specific drink to each pub (hole). A hole is assigned a par rating depending on how many sips are needed to finish a drink. The wider variety of drinks the better! Introduce your friends to new drinks at your favourite pubs.

As an example:

• A pint of beer in 3 sips (par 3)
• A tequila shot may be 1 sip (par 1)
• A large cocktail 5 sips (par 5) 

Before the game starts, brief the group on the designated drink and sip rules.

3: Start Your Game

Now your course is planned and your drinks set, it’s time to play a game of pub golf! 

You will go to  each pub in numbered order and drink the designated drink for each hole. The aim is to visit the series of bars and finish your drink in the least  number of sips. Just follow the game rules, aim to avoid the water and bunker hazards, and good luck in hitting a low score!

4: Final Scores

Once the final pub has been conquered, it’s time to add up the scores and crown the champion of your pub golf adventure. Each player’s scorecard should reflect their performance at each “hole,” with penalties clearly marked for spills, unfinished drinks, or breaking any agreed-upon rules.

The player with the lowest overall score claims victory and ultimate bragging rights. For an extra layer of fun, consider awarding additional prizes for categories like “Best Dressed” or “Most Creative Penalty Excuse.” While winning is exciting, remember that the real success lies in enjoying the camaraderie and laughs along the way. Avoiding excessive drinking in this game is difficult, but it’s important to stay safe and look after each of your golf partners.

Add more Fun to your Pub Golf!

Of course, you can add your own rules according to the number of players taking part. Consider the following extra rules to add a little bit more fun:

• Add penalties for spilling drinks, falling over or a tactical or non-tactical chunder.
• Make sure the full rules are written down before play begins
• Split the group into pairs. Keep each other’s scores along the course 
• Allow pub golfers to only drink using their left hand
• Always drink within sight of your playing partner 
• Have a forfeit for the player with the highest (worst) score
• Award bonus points for the best-dressed golfer
• Add a prize for the last player

On top of additional rules, why not consider theming your Pub Golf like the chaps at TheBurntChip did with their recent “Winter Edition” Pub Golf below. Themed events will allow you to play Pub Golf time and time again with a different experience each time. Warning, this video is not suitable for children … although children also shouldn’t be researching pub golf!

Pub Golf Etiquette

Pub golf is good fun, but please remember your group’s safety. Either nominate a designated driver or use public transport to get around the course. Remember to please drink responsibly, stay hydrated (drink enough water between pubs to avoid water hazards), and be mindful of your individual drinking limits.

Also, keep in mind that pub golf is a social game, so involve the whole group, and respect each person’s wishes. The goal is to have fun, not to be too serious or competitive. It is meant to be a friendly competition!

Final Thoughts

Pub golf is a sociable night out. You can enjoy different drinks and explore new pubs with your pals. To create the best experience, keep track of sips, avoid hazards, and respect the dress code. Also remember that the lowest score wins, so choose your drinks wisely, stay on schedule, and most of all have fun! 

Why not sport your best golf attire, plan a cool pub crawl, and prepare for a night of laughter, top drinks, and unique pub golf fun.

Bye for now!

*Disclaimer: Please drink responsibly and know your limits. Pub Golf is meant to be a fun and social activity, but it’s important to prioritise your safety and the well-being of others. Always have a designated driver, use public transport, or arrange alternative transportation. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation, stay hydrated, and never drink and drive. Enjoy responsibly!