Not the pub dartboard version — this is yard/lawn darts, thrown underarm at a ground target from a distance. Simple to set up, easy to explain, and genuinely competitive once you get a feel for the lob.
How to Play Garden Darts: A Beginner’s Guide
| 2-4 Players (teams of 2) | 35ft Distance between targets | 2 Darts per turn | 8+ Recommended age |
What’s included: giant darts with rounded plastic tips, designed to stick into grass — safe to use, with no risk of physical injury even if one hits a person.
How to Set Up
- Place the two circular targets on the ground 35ft apart — move them closer together for younger or beginner players.
- With two players, stand together on the same side and aim at the same target, swapping ends each round.
- With teams of two, put one player from each team at each end so you’re always throwing against your opponent.
How to Play
- Each team gets two darts (one colour each).
- Players alternate throws, one team at a time.
- Throw underarm toward the target on the other end, aiming for enough of an arc that the dart lands nearly upright.
Tip: A flat, hard throw tends to bounce off target rather than land cleanly — a high, arcing lob beats it almost every time.
Scoring
A dart landing inside the circle (a “ringer”) scores 3 points. If both teams land a ringer in the same round, those points cancel each other out and nobody scores. The first team to reach exactly 21 points wins — agree before you start whether going over 21 busts you back down, or whether it’s simply first past the post, since house rules vary.
A Few Strategy Tips for Beginners
- Arc it, don’t flatten it. A high lob is the throw least likely to skid off target.
- Watch your opponent’s landing. It helps you judge the distance before your own throw.
- Aim clean, not just close. A tie in the circle cancels both scores out.
Fun Variations
- Handly Cup scoring. A more competitive points system (1, 2, 3, 4, or 6 points depending on how darts land relative to each other) for groups who want more scoring nuance than the standard ringer-only rules.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Darts
Is Garden Darts safe for a family event?
Yes — the darts have rounded plastic tips designed to stick into grass, with no risk of physical injury even if one hits a person.
How many players can play?
Two, or teams of two — up to four players in total.
What’s a ringer?
A dart that lands cleanly inside the circular target, scoring 3 points.
How do you win?
Standard play is first to exactly 21 points, though house rules vary on whether going over busts you back down.
Other Garden Games
Please have a look at our other giant games. When multiple games are ordered as a package, a discounted rate may apply. Garden Darts pairs particularly well with Giant Skittles for a full outdoor games area.
Garden Darts Hire FAQs
Is Garden Darts suitable for indoor and outdoor use?
Garden Darts is designed for outdoor use on grass, since the darts are made to stick into turf. For outdoor Scottish events we recommend a covered backup area in case of weather.
What events is Garden Darts hire popular for?
Garden Darts is a great choice for wedding drinks receptions, garden parties, corporate events, and family celebrations. No experience is needed — guests get involved straight away.
What areas of Scotland do you cover for Garden Darts hire?
We deliver across Central Scotland — Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth, Fife, the Lothians, Stirling and the Scottish Borders. Get in touch to confirm availability for your date and venue.
Can Garden Darts be combined with DJ or other entertainment?
Yes — games and DJ services are frequently booked together. See our full giant games range or get in touch for a combined quote.
