Iconic Edinburgh pub set to give away free pints this weekend to celebrate historic milestone
The Old Chain Pier is celebrating after new legislation was passed to allow pubs to break free from restrictive purchasing obligations
A iconic Edinburgh boozer is offering customers free pints this weekend as part of celebrations following a huge milestone for the industry.
The Old Chain Pier, located on Trinity Crescent in Newhaven, is passing celebrations onto customers after the Scottish Pubs Code was implemented.
The legislation has enabled pub owners to request a rent-only agreement without being tied to a pub-owning business for stock supply.
This means that the historic pub, which is more than 200 years old, has been given more independence to stock a wider range of products, as well as permanently slashing the price of its house lager to £5 per pint.
The Old Chain Pier owners Malt Group said that the legislation comes at a vital time for venues which are facing pressures resulting from high VAT, soaring business rates, road closures, and rising employer National Insurance Contributions (NIC) among other factors.
January Watson, area manager for Malt Group, said: “The Scottish Pubs Code has been a massive relief for us.
“Operating in Edinburgh's hospitality sector is incredibly tough right now with mounting taxes, rates, and the highest table and chair charges in Europe.
“Being able to step away from tied stock means we finally have the freedom to curate our own beer selection, support brilliant local breweries, and pass those savings directly on to our loyal customers with £5 pints.”
The new legislation has prompted celebrations from The Old Chain Pier team, who are laying on a week-long event to commemorate the historic move.
From Monday, June 29 until Sunday, July 5, all pints at the pub will be priced at £5.
The Old Chain Pier’s famous beer garden will also be taken over this weekend by some of the city’s best breweries including Stewart Brewing, Newbarns Brewery, and Campervan Brewery, with free pints available to the first 20 customers.
The beer garden will also be the hotspot of celebrations with a garden BBQ from 6pm and playground games.
The party won’t stop there as live music performances, free face painting and a pet fancy dress competition is also set to take place, with more events and surprises set to be announced.
Additionally, customers who book a table to dine at the venue until Thursday, July 2 will receive 20% off their food bill.