The plan (and the optimism)
We decided to do our first ever Upton pub crawl. Because what could possibly go wrong with a group of well-fed, well-watered adults attempting “just five local pubs” and trusting transport to hold the whole thing together?
The mission was simple: set off from The Upton, hop on the bus, and visit five brilliant local pubs, raising money for Bristol Suicide Prevention.
And before anyone asks: yes, this is what community spirit looks like in the wild. It’s slightly chaotic, mildly competitive, and powered almost entirely by crisps and good intentions.
Stop 1: The Upton (a warm-up hug)
We started at home base — The Upton — where the atmosphere was exactly what you’d expect: friendly, loud, and full of people saying things like, “I’m definitely pacing myself,” while ordering a drink that suggests otherwise.
There was a bit of pre-crawl admin:
• Confirming everyone had their bus money (or at least a plan)
• Agreeing on the rules (which were immediately ignored)
• Pretending we were organised
Then we set off, full of hope, confidence, and the kind of energy usually reserved for people who haven’t yet tried to stand up too quickly.
The bus: our true sixth venue
There’s something uniquely British about starting a charity pub crawl with a bus. It adds a little spice. A little jeopardy. A little “will we make it, or will we become a roaming street choir outside a closed Co-op?”
We made it on. Mostly together. Nobody was left behind. No one officially got lost.
Stops 2–5: Five pubs, one noble cause, and a lot of opinions
We hit five local pubs, each with its own personality: The White Heart bridge yate, The Holly Bush, Dauphine, Crown, and finally the White heart in Bitton – big thanks to them all 😊
• One was cosy and calm (suspicious behaviour)
• One was lively and loud (our natural habitat)
• One had that “we do food but only if the chef feels emotionally ready” vibe
• One had the kind of lighting that makes feel look like you were most defo the oldest person in the pub.
Somewhere around pub three, the group split into two camps:
1. The Pacing Themselves Brigade (still talking about “hydration”)
2. The Charity Means Commitment (treating every round like a moral obligation to drink - that was me)
Both groups were equally convinced they were the responsible ones.
Why we did it (and why it matters)
Jokes aside: we did this for Bristol Suicide Prevention because mental health isn’t a side issue — it’s a people issue pub issues. It’s friends, family, colleagues, neighbours. It’s our community, our very own Pub family.
Bristol Suicide Prevention does vital work supporting people in crisis and helping prevent suicide through practical, compassionate support. If you’ve ever had a hard season (or known someone who has), you’ll understand why this matters.
And if a bunch of us wandering between pubs can raise money, spark conversations, and show support — then that’s a pretty good use of an Friday evening.
The highlights (in no particular order)
• The moment someone said “just a quick one” for the fifth time
• The bus ride turning into a full-scale comedy panel show
• The unexpected kindness of strangers
• The realisation that “five pubs” is both a number and a lifestyle choice
• The fact that we all made it back with out leaving someone behind (a miracle)
And if you fancy joining the next Upton charity adventure… keep your eyes peeled. We’ll do it again. Because we’re generous like that. And because apparently we learn nothing.
Final thoughts (from your slightly smug hosts)
Thank you to everyone who came along, donated, cheered us on, and tolerated the logistical masterpiece that was “bus + five pubs + enthusiasm.”
We’re proud of our community. We’re proud to support Bristol Suicide Prevention. And we’re proud that nobody tried to start a singalong until at least pub four.
Until next time: be kind, look after each other, and remember — the best pub crawls start with a hug.
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