Think darts is all about beery blokes in dingy pubs? Think again.
Flight Club is leading the social darts revolution. This is not your old-fashioned Queen Vic darts in a pub, but a cosy, fairground-themed bar three minutes from Tottenham Court Road station.
Classic dartboards have been updated for the 21st century: when you throw your dart, a computer registers its position and tots up the scores for you, so there’s no need to do the maths. A screen above the board shows you whether you’re winning or losing. If you’ve never played darts before ( I haven’t) it’s a good place to start.
Refuel with a pizza paddle mid-game
Because this is social darts. All you need is a bunch of mates and your best game face.
Each oche (the throw-line in front of the dartboard) has a tablet which takes your name and a quick snap of your face. You can then pick a game and start playing.
You don’t even have to leave your oche to get a drink: one touch of a button on the tablet and a host will arrive within seconds to take your order, then bring it back to you.
There are four different games from the simple – a race to zero points – to the more advanced. It’s not always about hitting the bullseye: one of the games asks you to aim for specific areas, which can be tricky.
It truly is a case of the more the merrier, as games are charged per oche, per hour. So the more mates you bring, the cheaper it is.
The game is surprisingly addictive: most people improve after a few drinks. Talking of which, the cocktails are exceptional. I recommend Lady Killer, a sweet and syrupy mix of strawberry liqueur, vodka and prosecco, with basil and strawberry.
Modern darts comes with cocktails
Whether you’re playing competitively or just want a laugh, social darts is a good night out for anyone who’s bored of sitting in pubs. It truly is a case of the more the merrier, as games are charged per oche, per hour – not per person. So the more mates you bring, the cheaper it is. What’s not to like!
Flight Club, 55 New Oxford St, WC1A 1BS/2a Worship St, EC2A 2AH
Off-peak: Mon-Fri 12-4pm, £15 per hour Sunday, £15 per hour all day
Peak: Mon-Fri 4pm-close, £25 per hour Saturday, £25 per hour all day (minimum six people.)
