Around the Clock darts rules
In Around the Clock, you have to hit the numbers 1 to 20 in order, then the bull. Each player throws three darts per turn and moves on one number with every successful hit. The first to hit the bull after 20 wins. It's the ideal game to warm up or to learn.
- Players
- 1 or more
- Length
- 5 to 15 minutes
- Targets
- 1 to 20, then bull
- Darts per turn
- 3
How it works
Start on 1. A hit anywhere in the 1 segment (single, double or treble) moves you to 2, and so on up to 20. Darts that miss the current number don't count. After 20 comes the bull: 25 or 50, as agreed.
Keep going on the next number with the remaining darts of your turn: a good turn can move you on three numbers.
Variants
Doubles only
Only the double of the current number counts. Excellent checkout practice.
Trebles only
Only the treble counts: for experienced players.
Bonus
A double moves you on two numbers, a treble three.
Shuffled
Numbers are drawn at random or follow the board order (20, 1, 18, 4…).
Common mistakes
- Losing track of where you are: write down the current number, or use a scorer.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to finish on the bullseye?
As agreed at the start: the outer bull is often enough, the bullseye makes the finish harder.
Can you play it alone?
Yes, it's a classic practice routine: count how many darts you need and try to beat it each time.