Playful nights out with a dash of friendly rivalry – say hello to Flight Club, Newcastle’s new stylish social darts venue.
~ Advertorial ~
Flight Club boasts glitzy venues in far-flung destinations such as Las Vegas, Sydney and New York – and it’s now launched here in the Toon!
This is the latest city centre opening to tap into the rising popularity of the ‘competitive socialising’ trend, which combines food and drink with interactive games and experiences for adults.
It appears us grown-ups are looking for something cool to do with our friends these days, instead of just drinking and chatting on a night out. And this is where venues like Flight Club are right on target!
What is social darts?
Social darts is a fun, group-friendly take on the traditional game of darts that you’d expect to see down your local pub.
The idea is that anyone can play (you don’t have to be the next Luke Littler in the making!) and the dartboards are tech-enabled. Another essential ingredient is that the venue brings more of a party vibe.
And this is what Flight Club has in spades!
The bar exudes a lively atmosphere, combined with a fairground-inspired decor, ambient lighting and top tunes.
You can choose from six dart games, including Demolition, Killer and Shanghai. And, similar to bowling, you input your name and take a profile pic that displays on a digital screen (look out for instant replays of your best throws!).
It’s worth mentioning, you throw real darts at a dartboard in a booth-like setting, and the tech does all the hard work in totting up your scores. Each playing area, known as an oche, holds up to 12 people, with space to chill, drink and gorge on tasty food.
On the menu
The drinks menu is extensive, with lagers, ales, cider and fruit beer, low and no alcohol options, spritzes, spirits, and wine.
The Fairground Old Fashioned, Salted Caramel Espresso Martini, and Coco-Rita are just a few of the cocktails available. You can also order cocktail slushies, or a sharing trophy cocktail for four people – with the concoction served in a trophy cup.
Food-wise, choose from small plates such as honey-glazed chorizo and padron peppers, or larger platters. There are also ‘tear ‘n’ share‘ dishes, burgers, sourdough pizza paddles, nachos and sweet treats. Definitely a nibble for every tastebud!
Planning your visit
Flight Club is located in Eldon Square, although you can enter the venue from Nelson Street, just along from Mowgli and The Alchemist, within short walking distance of Monument Metro.
It’s open Sunday to Thursday from 11.30am to midnight, Friday from 11.30am to 1.30am, and Saturday from 11am t0 1.30am.
Off-peak games start from just £9pp, with standard pricing (Thursday to Saturday) starting from £12pp. You can also book events, brunch, and food and drink packages.
It’s worth noting that you need to be over 18 to play social darts.
Is it bullseye or bust for Newcastle's Flight Club?
I went along on the bar’s launch night, and it was the first time I’d ever properly played darts – and you could tell!
It was really good fun though, and I can imagine it being popular with groups of mates or work colleagues seeking something a bit different on their night out.