Darts isn’t just a pub pastime – it’s a game of skill, focus, and a bit of friendly competition. Whether you’re a complete newbie or trying to beat your mates on a weekend away, knowing how to get good at darts starts with the basics and builds with practice.
So grab your darts, and let’s dive into this handy (and fun) guide!
How to Play Darts for Beginners
If you’ve never thrown a dart in your life (or you’ve hit more walls than the board), don’t worry – we all start somewhere. Traditional darts is usually played with a score of 501, and the aim is to reduce your score to exactly zero, finishing on a double. Each player takes turns throwing three darts per visit, and your score is deducted from your running total. Easy, right?
Get yourself a standard dartboard, stand about 7 feet 9 ¼ inches away (the official distance), and aim for the board’s high-scoring areas. Most importantly – relax, enjoy, and don’t put pressure on yourself to hit treble 20 straight away!
How to Score Darts
The dartboard is split into 20 numbered sections, with trebles (3x the number) in the thin inner ring, doubles on the outer ring, and the bullseye worth 50 points (25 for the outer bull).
Treble 20? That’s 60 points – the top score with one dart.
Three treble 20s? That’s a 180, and yes – people will cheer if you hit it.
Start by aiming for the big numbers like 20, 19, and 18, and keep track of your running total. Apps and scoring guides can help, or just use a chalkboard like the good old days.
How to Aim Darts Like a Pro
Aiming is where skill starts to shine. First, find a comfortable stance – most players stand sideways, with their dominant foot forward.
Hold the dart like a pen: firm, but not too tight. Raise your arm so your elbow is steady and level with your eye, and throw with a smooth, consistent motion – not a flick. Aim small – even if you miss, your grouping will improve. And remember: don’t overthink it. Smooth and steady wins the game.
How to Improve at Darts: Practice That Pays Off
Getting better at darts is all about consistency and fun practice. Try these ideas:
Around the Clock: Hit every number from 1 to 20 in order – great for accuracy.
Finishing Practice: Try hitting doubles and bulls under pressure.
301 Practice Games: A quicker version of 501 to sharpen strategy and rhythm.
Aim to play regularly – 15–30 minutes a day makes a real difference. And always challenge yourself with new games and targets.
How Many Legs in a Set of Darts? Understanding the Game Format
If you’re stepping into competitive play (or just want to sound like you know your stuff at the pub), let’s talk game format.
A leg is one game of 501 (or another score). A set is made up of multiple legs – usually best of 3 or 5. For example:
Best of 3 legs = first to win 2 legs
Best of 5 sets = first to win 3 sets (each made of several legs)
It might sound like lingo, but once you’ve played a few matches, it’ll feel second nature.
Why Choose a Weekend Away to Play Darts?
Practising at home is great, but there’s nothing quite like a weekend away with friends, good food, entertainment – and a proper darts setup. At Serious About Events, our Darts Weekends are made for people who want fun, competition, and a brilliant social experience, all in one.
You don’t have to organise a thing. We handle the venue, accommodation, meals, entertainment – and, of course, the darts. Whether you’re coming solo, in a pair, or with your whole squad, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded players and plenty of laughs.
Bonus Tips: Stay Focused and Have Fun 🎉
Here are a few quick-fire tips to keep in mind:
Breathe before you throw – it really helps!
Keep your eye on the target, not your hand.
Play with better players – you’ll improve faster.
Have fun – darts is a game, not a test!
Ready to Hit the Bullseye?
Improving at darts takes time, practice, and a little bit of cheeky competition. Whether you’re aiming for a 180 or just trying not to bounce one off the floor, enjoy the journey. And if you fancy putting your skills to the test in a relaxed, social setting – come and join us on a Serious About Events Darts Weekend.
Your throw might start at the oche, but the good times start the moment you arrive.
