What is Pub Golf? 7 Simple Rules for the Elite Drinking Game!

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Ah, pub golf. Just uttering those two words reminds me of some wild memories from my university days. Whenever I see a group of youngsters running around in their see-through visors and inflatable clubs, I reminisce about the good ol’ days. You uncultured individuals might ask what pub golf is. Lucky for you, I remember some of the times I played it and will be getting you ready to tee off, pint in hand.

What is Pub Golf?

Pub golf is essentially a themed pub crawl that mimics the scoring system of traditional golf. Instead of swinging clubs on a green, players navigate a “course” of pubs or bars, each representing a “hole.” Participants must drink a designated drink at each venue in as few “strokes” (sips or gulps) as possible. The aim is to complete the course with the lowest score, just like in real golf.

Pub Golf Rules

Like with any fun game, there are a series of rules. If you’re familiar with normal golf, they’re fairly similar, just more boozy. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. The Course Layout: Typically, a pub golf course consists of nine or eighteen “holes,” mirroring the structure of a real golf game. Each hole corresponds to a different pub or bar.
2. Par System: Each hole is assigned a “par,” which represents the number of sips or gulps in which you should aim to finish your drink. For example, a par 3 might be a pint that should be consumed in three sips.
3. Scoring: Just like in golf, the objective is to complete each hole in as few strokes as possible. If you finish your drink in fewer sips than the par, you score under par for that hole. Here’s a free template.
4. Hole-in-One: Achieving a “hole-in-one” means finishing your drink in a single gulp. It’s a commendable feat that often earns bragging rights and might even come with a bonus in the scoring system.
5. Scorecard: Each player keeps track of their scores on a scorecard, noting how many sips it took to finish each drink.
6. Honesty Policy: Pub golf relies on the honour system. Players are expected to keep an accurate account of their scores to maintain fair play. No point playing if you’re going to lie, ey?
7. Order of Play: To keep things organised, decide on an order of play before starting. This way, everyone knows when it’s their turn to tee off (start drinking) at each pub.

Pub Golf Challenges

Adding challenges to your pub golf game can make the game that little bit more exciting and test your skills (or your ability to hold a drink). Here are some popular pub golf challenges:

1. Hole in one: A classic challenge where players attempt to finish a full pint in a single gulp. This could be designated as a hole-in-one opportunity.
2. Drinking with the Wrong Hand: For a twist, players might be required to drink using their non-dominant hand. Failing to do so could result in penalty strokes.
3. No Bathroom Visits: Restricting bathroom visits adds a layer of difficulty, though it is best to avoid picking this if you’re playing with your small-bladdered uncle.
4. Silent Hole: At a designated hole, players must remain silent—any talking results in penalty strokes.

Incorporating these pub golf challenges not only spices up the game but can provide some hilarious moments.

Pub Golf Forfeits and Penalties

Penalties and forfeits are often assigned for breaking the rules or failing challenges to keep everyone on their toes. Here are some common ones:

1. Additional Shots: A typical penalty requires the player to take an extra shot, adding to their overall score (and perhaps their level of drunkenness).
2. Silly Attire: The player might have to wear a humorous accessory for the rest of the night, such as a flamboyant hat or a novelty item.
3. Dance Dare: Performing an impromptu dance in the pub could be a forfeit, much to the amusement of onlookers.
4. Speaking in Accents: The penalised player must speak in a designated accent until the next hole, with penalties for slipping back into their normal voice.
5. Skipping a Hole: If a player skips a hole, hit them with a penalty.
6. Being Kicked Out: A player that gets kicked out of the bar would not only have to wait for everyone but be given a penalty.

Pub golf forfeits can be customised by the group to suit everyone’s sense of humour and comfort levels. Basically, try not to offend anyone.

Pub Golf Funny Rules

For those looking to inject even more hilarity into their game, consider implementing some pub golf funny rules:

1. Caddie Duty: Assign one player as the “caddie,” responsible for carrying everyone’s drinks or belongings between pubs. This role can rotate or be assigned as a penalty.
2. Sand Trap: At certain pubs, designate an area as a “sand trap” where players must sit on the floor while drinking.
3. Water Hazard: If a player spills their drink, they receive penalty strokes, mimicking the setback of hitting a ball into a water hazard.
4. Dress Code Violations: Any deviations from the agreed-upon attire result in penalties, encouraging everyone to commit to the theme fully.
5. Sick Penalty: If a player is sick during the night, they receive a penalty for being a mess—including tactical chunders!

Planning Your Pub Golf Course

A successful pub golf night requires some planning. Here are tips to help you set up the perfect course:

1. Choose the Right Pubs: Select pubs that are within walking distance to keep the group together and maintain momentum. Consider the atmosphere and whether the venues accommodate larger groups. I have been turned away in the past when with a large group of guys.
2. Drink Selection: Assign specific drinks to each hole, varying between pints, shots or cocktails. Ensure the drinks match the par difficulty.
3. Group Preferences: Take into account the preferences and tolerances of your group. The aim is for everyone to enjoy themselves, so consider offering alternatives for those who may not drink alcohol.
4. Time Management: Allocate sufficient time at each pub to avoid rushing. Remember, the goal is to have fun, not to sprint through the night.
5. Safety First: Plan the route to avoid any unsafe areas and consider transport options for the end of the night.

Pub Golf Attire

One of the most entertaining aspects of pub golf is the attire. Dressing up adds to the hilarity and the overall experience. Traditional pub golf attire includes:

1. Polo Shirts: Often in bright colours or with humorous slogans.
2. Argyle Sweaters: For that authentic golfer look.
3. Flat Caps or Visors: A nod to classic golfing headgear.
4. Knee-High Socks: Paired with shorts for a quintessential golfer’s outfit.
5. Plastic Golf Clubs: As props (though check with pubs beforehand to ensure they’re allowed).

Encouraging everyone to dress the part enhances the theme and makes for fantastic group photos.

Summary

So, what is pub golf? Well, pub golf is a themed pub crawl that mimics the scoring system of traditional golf. Participants visit a series of pubs, with each pub representing a “hole.” The goal is to finish a designated drink in as few sips (or “strokes”) as possible. The game includes rules like keeping scorecards, following a “par” system for drinks and imposing challenges or penalties for added fun. Players often dress in golf-themed attire, and the event usually involves humorous forfeits and challenges to keep things lively. Proper planning and safety considerations are essential for a successful Pub Golf night.

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