January 15, 2024

Bullseye! The latest in social entertainment technology is hitting the right target with fans at Clacton Pier.

Augmented reality darts has really taken flight in the Boardwalk Bar and Grill following the recent World Darts Championship.

A change in age limit for those able to play the game at the seaside attraction, has also helped to increase its popularity with fans with last weekend being the busiest so far.

The system, which includes multi-player games for beginners right up to experts, was introduced at the pier last year with an initial steady interest.

But it has taken off over the past month with teenage darts sensation Luke Littler having captivated a whole new audience with his performances at Alexandra Palace.

Pier director Billy Ball said the exciting new concept is making an impact.

“We have started to see a significant rise in numbers playing reality darts and I think it is down to two factors,” he added.

“There was previously an age limit of 16 plus but after consulting 501 Darts, who supplied the equipment, we now allow all ages provided they are accompanied by an adult. This has opened up the game to more families to enjoy together.

“However, I sure that the Luke Littler effect – and more people being drawn towards the sport after the 16-year-old made it through to the world final where he lost to Luke Humphries – has had a part to play.

“It seems we introduced it at just the right time to benefit from a surge in popularity from the recent world championships.”

Augmented reality darts involves an autoscoring system that projects all game play graphics, targets and scores directly into the board itself.

There are three separate lanes at the Boardwalk which underwent a £130,000 facelift which also included two shuffle boards.

Lanes for darts can be booked at clactonpier.co.uk/book-online/ by going to attractions and selecting darts.

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