Edinburgh Stag Do

Why is Edinburgh Good for Stag Do?

Want to give the groom-to-be an unforgettable weekend before he ties the knot? Then you’re in the right place!

Famous for its world-class comedy festival and legendary Hogmanay celebrations, Scotland’s capital knows how to throw an epic party, making it a cracking choice for any stag do. If you’re whisky lovers, you’re in for a treat, because Edinburgh’s cobbled streets are lined with traditional pubs where you can sample a wee dram or two. We’re willing to bet it’ll be some of the best you’ve ever tasted!

And it’s not just the nightlife that makes an Edinburgh stag do stand out. This vibrant, picture-perfect city is packed with history, culture and more than a few surprises (it’s a UNESCO City of Literature, after all). There’s also a massive variety of activities to get stuck into. Whether you want to dance ‘til you drop, kick back and relax, or satisfy your need for speed, you’ll find loads to keep the whole group buzzing long after the weekend ends.

Top 10 Stag Do Activities in Edinburgh

1) Highland Games

Celebrate in the great outdoors and get into the Scottish spirit with the hilarious Highland Games. You will take part in a range of wacky challenges such as hurling wellies, tossing the caber, hammer toss, tug of war, shopping spree dash and tyre flip. Laugh, joke and unleash your competitive side as you launch that welly as far as you can. Get ready for the banter to flow from the get-go. There are prizes to win including a bottle of booze, so you better bring your A-game. You can even come in fancy dress to make things even more fun.

2) Paintballing

Ready for a quintessential stagtivity? Paintballing is one of our most popular activities for stags and it is easy to see why. It is a lively and competitive game that gets you working as a team or against each other with hilarious results. You will be split into teams and have to work together to find the best hiding spots while trying to shoot your opponents with paintballs. What could be better than pelting your best mates with paint? To make things even more exciting, we also offer capture-the-flag games and other activities that will keep everyone engaged and having a blast until the very end.

3) Bubble Football

Who does not love a kickabout with their mates? But it is your stag do in Edinburgh, so we think you should push the boat out and spice up your regular footie match. Bubble football will do just that as you climb into big, inflatable, one-man zorbs to play a fast and furious game that sees you bounce, barge and roll around the pitch. You will not be able to keep a straight face when you see each other dressed as giant beach balls. To tackle, you will need to bump each other out of the way. The zorbs take the impact, so you can give it everything you have got.

4) Nude Life Drawing

Fancy something quirky? We have just the thing. Nude life drawing classes are designed as a fun, cheeky way for men to get together with their mates and create something memorable while learning a few new skills. And did we mention you get to gaze upon a gorgeous naked woman throughout the class? A professional model will de-robe and pose for you. Do not worry if you laugh or blush, she is a total pro. You do not need to be arty for this tongue-in-cheek class as an art teacher will share all their tips with you.

5) Escape Rooms

If you have ever wanted to be a detective and solve crimes or you have just watched loads of TV mysteries, you will love the challenge of an escape room. These themed rooms present you with puzzles and riddles to solve and codes to crack. You will need to work together if you want to escape within the time limit, usually around one hour. There are loads of themes to choose from, from scary to funny, carrying out a bank heist to uncovering a double agent, and all are packed with mystery. Are you ready to unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes or Watson?

6) Bar Crawls

Whether you are looking for a place to throw back a few shots or just a quiet pint with friends, we can help. Get yourselves on a bar crawl and get the inside scoop on all the best watering holes in town. A friendly guide will show you around. They know all the best places to go and will make sure you have a night to remember. Some bar crawls even include free shots, drink deals and games. If you choose a public crawl, it is a great way to meet new people who love to party as much as you do while exploring the city centre at night without having to navigate it alone.

7) Quad Biking

Are you ready to get down and dirty? If you have been looking for an off-road adventure, we have just the ticket. Quad biking is a rip-roaring good time that takes you off the beaten path on a guided course through 120 acres of woodland with a qualified instructor and your mates at your side. You will ride these beastly bikes over mounds, slopes, hills and muddy puddles as you make your way around the twists and turns of this mud-soaked obstacle course. So what are you waiting for, lads? Get out there and see how much mud you can splash.

8) Female Strippers

If you are looking to get your stag do off to a sexy start, look no further than a female strip show, gazing upon the most gorgeous women in Edinburgh. They will dance and undress for you, maintaining eye contact that will make you go wild and blush like a tomato. Whether the groom-to-be has asked to see strippers or you want to surprise him, he will love every minute with these lovely ladies. You can even stitch him up by arranging a seductive lap dance. Sit back, relax and enjoy the banter and the view.

9) Clay Pigeon Shooting

We fully understand that arranging a wedding can be super stressful, so the stag do is the time to blow off steam when a walk around the block or a cup of tea just will not cut it. Shake away all that stress with clay pigeon shooting, a traditional countryside activity that sees you fire a shotgun at a range of moving clay targets. A highly skilled instructor will be with you at all times, carrying out a safety briefing, showing you how to use the equipment and setting you fun challenges. It does not matter if you have never even seen a gun before, let alone held one, as you will get full tuition. Just give it your best shot.

10) Beer Bike

A beer bike is easily one of the most popular stag do activities you can book, ideal if you are not from the city as you can embrace all the amazing sights, from the castle to the National Museum, while having a cheeky beer or two along the way. The guide will talk you through the history of the area and all the key landmarks while you pedal as fast or as slowly as you like. Unlike some, this one is BYOB, so you bring your own booze, which is ideal if you do not all like beer. You can pop into a supermarket, pick up anything you like and drink it onboard, perfect if you would rather sip a spiced rum and coke. There is an onboard sound system that blasts out music, with LED lights all around the bike.

More Stag Do Ideas in Edinburgh

Whatever you are into, you will find it here. We have a brilliant array of activities that are ideal for both daytime and evening stag antics.

Daytime Stag Do Ideas in Edinburgh

If you are a group of guys who love a kickabout, then why not give Bubble Football in Edinburgh a whirl? But be warned, this is nothing like the classic game. Each member of the group will be encased in giant, inflatable, one-man zorb balls that cover the entire upper body. Your group will then be split into teams and the games will begin. You will quickly discover that having your arms encased seriously affects your balance, but luckily your legs are still free to run around and kick the ball.

The best part of this game is the tackling. To steal the ball, you will need to run at, bounce, barge and bump the opposing team members out of the way. As you can imagine, this leads to highly comical moments as you flail around on your backs. Just make sure you do not spend too much time down there, you have got a match to win after all.

For something a little less energetic for your stag weekend in Edinburgh, how about taking part in a Graffiti Art Masterclass? This unique experience will give you an in-depth crash course in everything street art. You’ll learn all about its New York routes back in the 1970s before unleashing your creative juices. Learn to create characters, paint beautiful lettering and discover stenciling techniques. Could you be the next Banksy?

Evening Stag Do Activity Ideas in Edinburgh

When it comes to nightlife options for the stag do, then you’ll be spoiled for choice with the vast choice of restaurants, bars and clubs that the city has to offer. But before you let the evening celebrations commence in full flow, we’d suggest taking a look at some of our top recommendations to get your evening started the right way

First of all, a night on the beers doesn’t bode well without some food, so make sure you find a stag friendly restaurant that’s happy to accommodate a large group. We recommend The Discovery Group or Indulge Dining, where you’ll be able to enjoy a two-course meal and drink. These lively restaurants offer a fun and laid-back atmosphere, in addition to a vibrant choice of dishes to enjoy. Also, The Cauldron are famed for their tasty cocktails, with many favourites available on the happy hour deal all day, every day!

Alternatively, you could enjoy a two-course meal with a gin tasting masterclass beforehand if you’d like to combine two great options. This experience is available at Slug & Lettuce on George street and here, you and your group will enjoy sampling a brilliant variety of gins and learning about the history of this spirit, before tucking into a two-course meal afterwards.

Getting around Edinburgh during a Stag Do

Edinburgh is a brilliant city and it’s a complete doddle to navigate your way around. If you’re flying into Edinburgh, then making your way into the city centre couldn’t be easier. There’s an efficient and frequent tram service, available from Edinburgh airport, providing a speedy journey into the heart of the city, in addition to trains and buses too. There’s also plenty of taxis at the airport, ready to ferry you and your luggage to your accommodation.

For those arriving by train, Waverley Train Station is situated right in the centre of Edinburgh, and when you arrive, you’ll be conveniently situated for everything that the city has to offer.

Edinburgh itself is considered to be a compact city, that’s easily accessible by foot. You can of course make use of the available public transport options to make your way around during the trip, but why not take in the sights of the traditional cobbled streets during your time here? In the early hours, once you’ve slunk out of the bars and clubs and finished the obligatory kebab, you’ll never be too far from a taxi, that’ll be on hand to whisk you and those tired feet back to your accommodation!

Edinburgh Stag Do FAQs

Is Edinburgh good for a stag do?

Edinburgh has tons of historic charm and buzzing nightlife, making it an ideal stag do spot. The Old Town is jam-packed with atmospheric pubs and quirky bars, while the New Town offers classy cocktail lounges and bustling clubs. You can explore Edinburgh Castle during the day and hit George Street at night for one to remember. The city’s compact layout is another bonus, as you can easily hop between activities or pubs without wasting time.

What are the most popular stag do activities in Edinburgh?

Whether you fancy some classic or quirky stag action, there’s loads to do here. Popular experiences include whisky tasting sessions where you’ll learn about Scotland’s favourite tipple, and inflatable knockout games for a hilarious competitive twist. Beer bikes are great for pedalling through the city while enjoying a few pints, and nude life drawing with a female model adds some banter and cheekiness. Bar crawls along Cowgate and Grassmarket are, of course, staples, while bubble football guarantees laughs and a chance to show off your footie skills while wearing a one-man zorb.

Which famous attractions should we visit?

No stag do in Edinburgh is complete without a trip to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock with stunning city views. Arthur’s Seat offers a great hike for groups who want some fresh air and photo ops. The Royal Mile is a must-see for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. For something quirky, visit the Scotch Whisky Experience or check out Mary King’s Close for a spooky underground tour. There’s tons to explore here.

What are the best areas of the city for a stag night out?

Edinburgh has nightlife to suit every stag group and budget. The Grassmarket and Cowgate are perfect for lively pub crawls with a mix of traditional Scottish pubs and modern bars. George Street in the New Town offers an upmarket vibe with chic cocktail lounges and late-night clubs. The Old Town’s Royal Mile has a range of quirky watering holes and live music venues. Leith is great for a more laid-back evening with craft beer spots and trendy restaurants by the waterfront.

What’s the weather like in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack layers. Summers (June–August) are mild, with temperatures averaging 15–20°C. Autumn and spring bring cooler days with averages around 10–12°C, while winters (December–February) dip to 1–7°C. Rain is common year-round, so a waterproof jacket is a must. If you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking Arthur’s Seat or a beer bike tour, check the forecast and be prepared for all conditions.

Is Edinburgh expensive for a stag night?

Edinburgh can suit a range of budgets, but it’s generally on the pricier side compared to other UK cities. Expect to pay around £5–£6 for a pint in central areas like George Street or Grassmarket, though smaller pubs may be cheaper. Club entry typically costs £10–£15, but some bars offer free entry. Meal prices vary, with pub grub usually around £10–£15 per dish. If you’re on a budget, do your research and get things booked in advance.

Are stag groups welcome in Edinburgh?

Of course! Edinburgh is a warm and welcoming city and is used to hosting big weekends and stag parties – especially around the Old Town, Cowgate and Grassmarket areas. Most venues are happy to welcome groups, but it’s always worth booking ahead if you have a big group or you’re planning to visit some of the most popular bars and clubs.

How many nights should we stay for a stag do in Edinburgh?

Generally, two nights should do the job for a stag weekend in Edinburgh. This gives you plenty of time to explore the city, do an activity or two, and enjoy a great night out. If you want to include some sightseeing or have a leisurely Sunday, three nights works perfectly.

Do we need to book activities in advance?

Yes, we can’t stress this enough! Edinburgh is busy year-round, but it’s at its busiest during summer, the Fringe Festival, rugby weekends and bank holidays. Booking activities and nightlife in advance means you won’t miss out or have to settle for last-minute options. It also ensures zero planning stress for the best man!

Is Edinburgh easy to get around for stag groups?

Yes, definitely. The city centre is very walkable, and most bars and attractions are close together. For anything further out, you can hop on a bus or tram or grab a taxi. There’s no need for a car in the city centre, and parking can be a hassle, so public transport or taxis are the way to go.

What should we wear on a night out in Edinburgh?

Most bars and pubs are pretty relaxed, but many clubs on George Street and in the New Town lean towards a smarter dress code. If one of these more luxurious venues is on your agenda, bring shirts, smart jeans and clean trainers or shoes. If you’re planning fancy dress, keep it tasteful and check ahead, as some venues won’t allow it.

When is the busiest time for stag dos in Edinburgh?

As mentioned earlier, summer is always popular, but the city goes into full party mode during the Fringe Festival in August. Rugby weekends and the December markets are also very busy, but there’s always a great buzz. If you want cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds, look at spring or early autumn – you’ll still enjoy a lively atmosphere, just with a little less chaos!