It’s nearly time for the LARGESTEVERDARTSWORLDCHAMPIONSHIP, which means thousands of dartists travelling to London over the next few weeks. If you fancy chucking some arrows before (or after) your visit to Ally Pally, here are a few suggestions for different areas of central London.
North – Camden
The Sheephaven Bay is a lovely Irish locals pub with a friendly bunch of darters. The board near the bar is frequently in use, but there’s another board at the back of the pub, which would be good for a larger group.
If busy… the Golden Lion is a 10-minute walk away. Call first as they will need to move some tables.
East – Whitechapel
You can check on the website if the Sir Sydney Smith’s board is available; it’s a decent pub with a good size darts area.
If busy... the Artful Dodger round the corner is friendlier than it first looks, and has a couple of boards. Or try the Brown Bear, equally nearby (and let me know what it’s like, I’ve not played there for a while).
West – Sloane Square
Just a 10-minute walk from Sloane Square station the Rising Sun has a dedicated darts area well suited for a small group. It’s particularly festive at the moment.
If busy… Rileys is less than 5 minutes away, has multiple boards, and will probably show the darts.
South – Borough
The Libertine has a board on a stage (and does great pizzas). Call to reserve at it is frequently in use. One strength of this venue is that the board can always be used, no matter how busy the pub gets.
If busy… head back 5 minutes towards London Bridge and try either The Sheaf or Katzenjammers, both with multiple boards. (German visitors, note Katzenjammers is meant to be a Bierhall, so there’s a good chance it’s the last place you want to be!)
Central – Fitrovia
The One Tun is a busy pub not far from Goodge Street tube that shows a lot of sport and has a small dedicated oche at the back. Note the online booking system isn’t entirely trustworthy.
If busy... The Glasshouse Stores, Blue Posts, Cock Tavern and Horse & Groom are all less than a 10-minute walk away.
Note: not all pubs open at weekends; if you are visiting with a larger group, and want a venue with more than one board, go to the Advanced Search page, scroll down to Tags, and tick Multiple Boards.