Darts Betting August 2025: Ultimate UK Guide From Oche to Odds

UK punters have fallen in love with darts betting in recent years. With several tournaments being played throughout the year, including major competitions, betting on darts has become a staple for many when seeking alternatives to traditional sports like football and horse racing.

When using darts betting sites, bettors must ensure they have a solid understanding of the betting process. It can be a simple sport, but many nuances need to be recognised, including how the game is played and how it can impact the darts odds offered.

BestOdds has created a guide that will highlight everything readers must know about the sport and how to wager on it with a better chance of success. Read on to find out everything about this rapid sport and how to make bets!

About BestOdds.com & Editorial Team

The BestOdds editorial team is formed of betting experts who all understand how to bet correctly on the most popular sports in the UK. Experts have been betting on darts for several years, allowing readers to trust the content on this page. It has been created with them in mind, with the experts aiming for honesty and transparency.

When using the BestOdds page, readers can access the data-driven model that has been created. This is an extremely useful tool for bettors, providing statistical data that can be used to make informed betting decisions that are justifiable.

How Darts Betting Works

This BestOdds guide will teach readers everything to know about darts betting, highlighting the core markets that have become popular with UK punters. Many of them are favoured by bettors because they are straightforward and easy to understand when watching live play, while some are liked because they can offer significant value.

Match Winner (Leg/Set)

The Match Winner market is the most straightforward form of darts betting, allowing punters to bet on which player will win a particular match, which may be structured by legs or sets depending on the format. In “legs” format, the match is decided by a set number of legs, while “sets” formats break the match into sets of legs.

Implied Probability is a core betting concept, providing insight into the likelihood that the bookmaker assigns to an outcome. For decimal odds, the calculation is: Implied Probability = 1/Decimal Odds

For example, decimal odds of 1.80 equate to an implied probability of: 1/1.80 = 0.555 = 55.6 %

This means a selection priced at 1.80 is considered to have a 55.6% chance of winning, factoring in the bookmaker’s margin.

Understanding the implied probability will allow bettors to recognise whether there is any value in backing the selection and how likely the outcome is to occur.

Outright Tournament Winner

The Outright Tournament Winner market involves betting on which player will win an entire tournament, such as the PDC World Championship or the Premier League Darts. Odds fluctuate during the event, particularly after the tournament draw when matchups are set.

Some contenders may experience a “price drift” (odds lengthen) if handed a tougher path to the final, while others with favourable draws might see their odds shorten.

The Outright Tournament Winner bet can be placed at any time before or during an event. Bettors may find that there is more value in backing a winner before it begins, as it is harder to predict what may happen without matches being played.

At the same time, it can be worth waiting until the competition begins, as players may show signs of struggle that can lengthen their darts odds but still come out on top.

Speciality Markets

The popularity that darts betting enjoys in the UK has led to many other markets being made available by top UKGC-licensed bookmakers. Many offer diverse betting odds and markets across a range of in-game aspects that can help to increase the excitement and potentially offer more value for knowledgeable punters.

Common darts betting specials can include:

• Most 180s: Bettors predict the player to score the highest number of 180s (maximum score with three darts) in a match or tournament.
• Highest Checkout: Punters place a wager on the player to achieve the highest single checkout (the score needed to win a leg). The highest checkout is 170 (T20, T20, Bull).
• Nine-Dart Finish Yes/No: Bettors bet on whether a nine-dart finish (the minimum number of darts to complete a leg) will occur in a match or tournament.
• Match to Finish on Bull: Punters can predict whether the match will finish with a bullseye.

In-Play Darts Odds

Live darts betting provides punters with several opportunities to enjoy placing wagers while the action takes place live on the oche. It allows punters to watch and bet on what could happen in real-time, such as whether a player will win the next leg, hit a 180, or record a nine-dart finish.

Momentum is huge within darts betting, with games between players often played based on confidence and rhythm. Players who can’t hit their doubles or make checkout attempts can become disheartened, which will impact their chances of winning.

Bettors can spot this and make decisions when betting live, and make changes to the bets that are made. With games being played at a quick speed, anything can happen in darts, which is why live betting is typically enjoyed throughout the UK for this sport.

The latency for updating live darts odds is typically very low, often just a few seconds, but can be briefly suspended during critical darts, such as match-winning checkout attempts.

Darts 2025: Key Facts for UK Viewers

The darts calendar is extensive, with several tournaments taking place worldwide. Many events are shown on British TV, with Sky Sports and ITV typically splitting broadcasting duties. When using a reputable bookmaker, it is possible to find live streams for smaller tournaments.

Thousands of people attend many of these events, with the PDC World Darts Championship over the festive season being the biggest. The weekly Premier League Darts competition also regularly sells out venues across the UK and Europe when it is held, with events held on a Thursday night across several cities.

For the 2025 PDC darts season, the following competitions were scheduled (events and dates are subject to change):

Tournament	Dates	Venue/Location
World Darts Championship	Dec 11, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026	Alexandra Palace, London
The Masters	Jan 30 – Feb 2, 2025	Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes
Premier League Darts	Feb 6 – May 29, 2025 (weekly)	Finals: The O2 Arena, London
UK Open	Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025	Butlin’s Minehead Resort
World Cup of Darts	Jun 12 – 15, 2025	Eissporthalle, Frankfurt
World Matchplay	Jul 19 – 27, 2025	Winter Gardens, Blackpool
Women’s World Matchplay	Jul 27, 2025	Winter Gardens, Blackpool
World Grand Prix	Oct 6 – 12, 2025	Mattioli Arena, Leicester
European Championship	Oct 23 – 26, 2025	Westfalenhalle, Dortmund
Grand Slam of Darts	Nov 8 – 16, 2025	WV Active Aldersley, Wolverhampton
Players Championship Finals	Nov 21 – 23, 2025	Butlin’s Minehead Resort

The current top-ten PDC Order of Merit is based on the career earnings that a player has accumulated in PDC tournaments. It is also used to rank players in terms of their world standing in the game. The player who is ranked #1 in the Order of Merit is considered the #1 player in the world, etc.

Premier League Darts Betting

The Premier League Darts event is one of the biggest on the PDC calendar. It is traditionally held between February and May, with matches taking place on a Thursday night. A new city hosts each week, with players competing in packed venues to reach the finals, which are held at The 02 Arena in London.

The Premier League Darts format underwent its most recent significant change in 2022, a system that continues through the 2025 season. This structure is designed as an eight-player knockout bracket contested at 17 different venues in the UK and Europe.

Each Thursday, all eight players compete in a mini-tournament composed of:

• Four quarter-final matches (best of 11 legs)
• Two semi-final matches (best of 11 legs)
• One final match to determine the night’s winner (best of 11 legs)

Players earn points based on their progress each night:

• Winner: 5 points
• Runner-up: 3 points
• Semi-finalists: 2 points
• Losing quarter-finalists: 0 points

In the league, each player faces every other once in the quarter-finals across weeks 1–7 and again in weeks 9–15. Weeks 8 and 16 quarter-final pairings are seeded according to league standings. The top four in the league table progress to the play-offs, where semi-finals (best of 19 legs) and a final (best of 21 legs) determine the overall champion.

Before 2022, the tournament used to be a round-robin league format. Players would play each other twice and accumulate as many points as possible before the final four played in the Finals night.

To bet on the PDC Premier League Darts, punters can use a recommended bookmaker by BestOdds. UKGC-licensed bookies will offer several darts odds and markets that can be explored before and during each night of the competition’s action, with the following among the main betting options:

• Outright Betting: Punters can wager on which player will win the overall league or qualify for the play-offs. Outright markets are typically available before the event starts and are updated week by week.
• Match Winner: Each weekly fixture offers separate markets for the winner of each match.
• Correct Score and Total Legs: Bettors can predict the exact score or total number of legs played in a match.
• Handicap Markets: Popular with closely matched players, handicap betting adjusts the final result by a certain number of legs.
• Specials: Bets are available on most 180s, highest checkout, nine-dart finish, or even the first player to break throw. In-play (live) betting is also widely available, allowing bets to be placed as matches progress, with odds updated in real time based on momentum swings and performance. 

The new format and variety of darts betting opportunities available have made the sport extremely popular with fans and bettors. Premier League Darts is also highly popular due to its weekly primetime format, with the competitive and unpredictable round-robin structure providing plenty of value in entertainment and betting.

Latest Tournament Prices

Live Odds can be tracked across major tournaments, allowing readers to find the best possible prices when events like the PDC Darts World Championship, PDC Premier League Darts, or the Darts World Cup are taking place.

Price Movement Chart

BestOdds allows readers to track player odds price movements before and during a tournament with its hourly line graph on the outright winner.

From Odds to Probability

UK bettors using UKGC-licensed bookmakers will notice that darts odds are often displayed as fractions when they visit a betting site for the first time. This is the standard in the UK.

The user can change this within the settings, as they can swap to a format that suits their understanding better. For instance, decimals can be easier to read and multiply against a stake to understand the return better.

Darts odds offered by a betting site usually factor in many different aspects of the game and individuals. This leads to the bookie creating an Implied Probability, which is then reflected in the odds that are then offered to punters. The formula used is:

• Implied Probability = 1/decimal odds x 100%

A 5/2 fractional example will see it appear as odds of 3.5 as a decimal. The implied probability of odds at 3.5 will then be worked out using the formula. This will result in an implied probability of 28.57%.

Punters may want to place a bet on a 9-darter being scored in a match. A bookmaker may offer this market at 12/1. When converting the figures into implied probability, there is a 7.69% that the outcome will happen.

How to Get Started With Darts Betting

BestOdds recommends that punters do the following when getting started with darts betting:

1. Choose a Trusted Betting Site

Start by selecting one of the recommended UK betting sites listed above. These operators are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and can be trusted. If you decide to use another site, always double-check that it holds a valid UKGC license.

2. Register and Create an Account

Sign up with your chosen betting site by creating a login. You will need to provide personal details such as your name, date of birth, email, and address. Screenshots in this guide illustrate what the registration process looks like.

3. Claim Your Welcome Bonus

Most bookies offer a welcome bonus to new customers. Be sure to claim this when registering, as it may not be available afterward. Always review the terms and conditions, since bonuses often require a minimum deposit, wagering within a time limit, or using specific bet types.

4. Complete Verification (KYC)

Bookmakers usually verify your identity automatically using the personal details provided. However, you may be asked for additional documentation (passport, driver’s licence, or proof of address). Completing KYC early is highly recommended, as this avoids delays when withdrawing funds later.

5. Make Your First Deposit

Head to the cashier section and choose from the accepted UK payment methods such as debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers. Enter your details and deposit the desired amount, most deposits are instant.

6. Navigate to the Darts Betting Section

From the betting site’s homepage, locate the darts section within the sports menu. Here you will find a full list of live and upcoming matches, plus a wide range of betting markets.

7. Place Your Bet

Click on the event you want to wager on, select your market, and add it to your betting slip. Enter your stake, double-check the odds, and confirm your bet.

8. Watch and Use Cash-Out Options

Some bookies provide live streaming of darts events. Watching in real time can help you decide whether to use the cash-out feature, allowing you to settle a bet early if the match swings in your favor.

Tips for Getting Started With Darts Betting

BestOdds aims to provide readers with the best darts betting tips and advice consistently. The team of experts at BestOdds only recommend methods that have been used themselves as part of the ongoing commitment to offer the very best service that readers can trust.

Among the top darts betting tips, it is recommended that bettors do the following:

• Learn Match Formats: Know the difference between sets and legs, and understand the impact on betting markets.
• Follow Player Form: Track recent performances, stage averages, and finishing statistics.
• Specialise Early: Focus on core markets like match winner and each-way before venturing into props.
• Check Head-to-Head Records: Analyse past meetings for trends and psychological edges.
• Monitor Market Movers: Pay attention to sharp price moves and team/stable information.
• Leverage In-Play: Use live betting to react to momentum swings and missed doubles.
• Shop for Value: Compare odds across multiple bookmakers to get the best possible returns.
• Budget Wisely: Set a clear bankroll for betting and avoid chasing losses.
• Stay Informed: Use expert analysis and news for injury updates and player mindset.
• Use Promotions: Take advantage of extra-place offers or enhanced odds, especially for majors.

BestOdds has a detailed darts betting tips page that can be accessed for more comprehensive coverage. It is recommended to visit this page to gain a fuller understanding if readers are new to darts betting or want to maximise the potential of success.

Historical Trends & Betting Angles

BestOdds wants readers to have a full understanding of what to look for when betting on darts. Readers should understand that there are many different aspects to the sport that need to be recognised and understood beyond the simple scoring of a match.

BestOdds has highlighted a couple of betting angles that should be examined when placing bets:

Set-Length Upsets

Early rounds of major darts tournaments, such as the World Championship, are often played in a best-of-5 sets format.

Statistical analyses show that shorter matches have a higher frequency of upsets, with lower-ranked or debutant players winning roughly 22–28% of first-round encounters against favourites in best-of-5 sets, compared to win rates below 15% in longer best-of-7 or best-of-11 formats.

Bettors should be aware of this increase in volatility and the potential for shocks. They can be a crucial angle for upsets and each-way betting, with value often at its potential highest if backing a perceived underdog.

Checkout Efficiency

Check-out efficiency (how often players finish legs on a double) correlates strongly with the three-dart average.

Data from the last five PDC World Championships indicates that players with a three-dart average above 100 win approximately 72-80% of their matches at Alexandra Palace and show a notably higher percentage of legs won on their first or second visit to a double.

High averages generally reflect sustained scoring and composure under pressure, making them a key metric for win probability and match betting. Bettors can do well to spot this trend and take advantage of it.

Stage vs Floor Form

While some players dominate floor events with high averages and frequent wins, others excel under the pressure and atmosphere of major televised competitions. Some people thrive under the pressure of being on TV and in front of large audiences, while others may find it daunting, which could impact their game.

Major televised competitions can sometimes be inaccurate of a player’s ability or talent due to the conditions that some find themselves in. If the player is inexperienced or does not feature regularly on stage, nerves can get the better of them. A poor performance may follow, but as soon as floor events return, better displays return.

Bettors should aim to recognise which players have been performing well on the stage and which individuals excel when playing on the floor. If this can be achieved, bettors may find more value in bets and obtain potential profit.

Advanced Markets Explained

Darts betting sites will provide punters with advanced markets that can be used to enhance the overall betting experience. BestOdds highlighted many core markets above, but advanced bettors may want to consider the following to maximise sessions and potentially find additional value elsewhere:

Handicap Legs/Sets

In darts handicap betting, bookmakers assign a leg or set handicap to even out the odds between favourites and underdogs.

A short-priced favourite might carry a handicap of -2.5 legs, meaning they must win by at least three legs for the bet to succeed. If the favourite wins by only two legs or fewer, the handicap bet loses. Betting on the underdog with a +2.5 handicap means they can lose by up to two legs, or win outright, for the bet to pay out.

A handicap bet can help to balance matches when there is a mismatch between the quality of the two players. In doing so, value can be generated in the betting.

Nine-Dart Insurance

Nine-dart finish markets allow bettors to place wagers on whether a perfect leg (finishing in 9 darts) will occur during a match or tournament. Some bookmakers offer nine-dart insurance promotions, refunding stakes if no nine-darter occurs, enhancing bettor value.

These promotions increase betting interest, encouraging wagers on highly unlikely but exciting outcomes.

Exchange Trading vs Fixed Odds

Betting exchanges differ from fixed-odds bookmakers by allowing bettors to back or lay selections. Exchange platforms charge a commission (commonly around 5%) on net winnings rather than building a margin into odds, often resulting in better prices.

In darts exchange markets, bettors can cash out or trade positions after the first mini-session (e.g., after a few legs or sets), locking in profits or cutting losses as the match progresses. This flexibility contrasts with fixed-odds bookmakers, who offer limited or no early cash-out options and have fixed prices.

The commission factor on exchanges must be considered alongside better odds and trading opportunities to assess overall value. Experienced bettors use exchanges for dynamic market positions, while casual bettors may prefer the simplicity of fixed-odds markets.

How to Withdraw Winnings

Once you’ve had success betting on darts, the next step is cashing out your winnings. BestOdds recommends following these steps to ensure your withdrawal is smooth, secure, and without unnecessary delays.

1. Log In to Your Betting Account

Start by visiting the betting site where your funds are held. Enter your username and password to access your account. Always make sure you’re logging in on a secure, official website or mobile app to protect your funds and personal information.

2. Head to the Withdrawal Section

Once logged in, navigate to your account area or the cashier section. Select the ‘Withdraw’ option. Each bookmaker labels this slightly differently, but it is always located within the account or payments menu.

3. Select Your Preferred Payment Method

Most betting sites require withdrawals to be made using the same method as your deposit. For example, if you deposited with a debit card, you’ll usually need to withdraw to the same card. This rule is in place to comply with UKGC anti-fraud and money laundering regulations. If your deposit method does not support withdrawals, the betting site will guide you to an alternative.

4. Enter the Withdrawal Amount

Enter the amount you wish to withdraw. Double-check that you’ve typed the correct figure, as some operators set minimum and maximum withdrawal limits. Review the details carefully and then click ‘Confirm’.

5. Processing Times and Transfer Speeds

The betting site will now process your request. Processing times vary by operator and by payment method:

• Debit cards: Typically 1–3 business days.
• E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller): Often instant or within 24 hours.
• Bank transfers: Can take 2–5 working days.

Each site will display an estimated processing timeframe during the withdrawal process.

6. Complete Verification (KYC) if Required

Before your first withdrawal — or occasionally on later ones — you may be asked to provide Know Your Customer (KYC) documents. This usually involves uploading a photo of a passport or driver’s licence, plus proof of address (utility bill or bank statement). These checks are standard for UKGC-licensed operators and ensure your winnings are paid securely. To avoid delays, it’s best to complete KYC verification as early as possible.

7. Monitor and Confirm Your Withdrawal

After submitting the request, keep an eye on your transaction history in your account. You will usually see your withdrawal marked as ‘pending’ until it has been approved. Once processed, funds will appear in your chosen payment account within the timeframe stated.

8. Contact Customer Support if Issues Arise

If your withdrawal is delayed beyond the stated timeframe, or you run into any technical issues, contact the bookmaker’s customer support team via live chat, phone, or email. Licensed UK operators are required to assist with withdrawal issues and typically resolve them quickly once raised.

UK Legal & Tax Position

As part of the Gambling Act of 2005, all UKGC-licensed betting sites are governed by the regulation. This is overseen by the UK Gambling Commission, which sets rigorous standards for operator licensing, fairness, player protection, and the prevention of crime and disorder.

To gamble in the UK, players must be at least 18 years old. They must prove their identity and confirm their age when signing up to a betting site, with operators required to carry out specific checks to validate the information that is received.

To complete these KYC checks, an operator may request a player’s identity card (passport/driver’s licence), proof of their address, and carry out affordability checks. They must do this as part of the conditions when holding a UKGC licence.

All winnings made from gambling activities are tax-free for UK residents. The UK government abolished the need for players to pay a tax of 6.75% on winnings in 2001 when Gordon Brown, the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the time, introduced the new reforms. Operators were instead handed the responsibility of paying taxes.

Still, individuals who bet professionally or have business-related activities that are associated with gambling may be liable to pay taxes on earnings generated. It is always advisable to check with a tax professional or financial advisor to determine the individual’s legal obligations.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements have been set out, which require all licensed UK betting sites to carry out source-of-funds checks. These are designed to ensure players are not betting with illicit funds and that betting activity is affordable and sustainable. Enhanced affordability checks are expected in the near future, with regulatory reforms likely.

In 2023, the UK government published a Gambling White Paper outlining stronger protections, including financial risk checks and stake limits. This has included “light touch” checks at £125 monthly or £500 yearly net loss, and more detailed checks at higher thresholds.

Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling is a core focus of the UK Gambling Commission, with the regulatory body placing an emphasis on it through the operators who hold a UKGC licence.

Darts betting sites that hold an active licence must provide players with a variety of tools that help to promote responsible gambling. These tools can include resources such as:

• Reality checks
• Deposit and loss limits
• Self-exclusion opportunities
• Support and assistance for problem gambling

Players must also practice responsible gambling themselves. Bettors should be disciplined with their bets and adopt various measures to ensure they do not fall to potential harmful gambling. These can include managing bankroll, playing with small stakes, never chasing losses, and using independent support when required.

Support is available through the following organisations:

• GamStop
• GameCare
• GambleAware

These bodies are available 24/7 and can be accessed with confidentiality. Support is offered by professionals.

Major Darts Calendar 2025

Bettors should keep ahead of the schedule to ensure they receive the best darts betting experiences.

Below, a table of the PDC’s major tournaments has been listed to allow punters to keep track of upcoming events/competitions:

Event	Dates	Venue	Prize Fund
PDC World Championship	15 Dec 2025 – 3 Jan 2026	Alexandra Palace, London	£2.5 m
Premier League	Feb – May 2025	17 arena nights (UK/Europe)	£1 m
World Matchplay	12 Jul – 20 Jul	Winter Gardens, Blackpool	£800 k
UK Open	Early March 2025	Butlin’s Minehead Resort	£600 k
World Grand Prix	Late Sep/Early Oct 2025	Morningside Arena, Leicester	£600 k
Grand Slam of Darts	Mid-November 2025	Aldersley Leisure Village, Wolverhampton	£650 k
Players Championship Finals	Late Nov 2025	Butlin’s Minehead Resort	£650 k
European Championship	Late October [Year]	Selected European venues	£500 k
World Cup of Darts	Mid-June 2025	Selected international venues	£450 k

Main Takeaways

Darts betting is an activity that many UK punters engage in, especially amid the rise of players who take the sporting world by storm when they stand on the oche. Tournaments and events have become increasingly competitive in recent years, adding to the overall value of betting opportunities for bettors.

Many different aspects are involved in the sport that bettors can look to use to form strategies to make potentially successful bets. Punters must understand the markets that are on offer and recognise which darts odds offer value to ensure a positive betting experience is obtained.

Responsible gambling measures must always be followed when using darts betting sites. Players can do this by using a UKGC-licensed site and using the responsible gambling tools that are in place to ensure protections are in place.

TL;DR:

• Darts betting continues to increase in popularity.
• Bettors must understand the different tournaments and formats played before wagering.
• Value can be found in darts odds at the best UKGC-licensed betting sites.
• Advanced darts betting markets are available; core/basic markets must be understood first.
• Many darts competitions held all year.
• Responsible gambling must be practised at all times.

FAQs

• When are PDC World Championship odds released?
  PDC World Championship odds can often be released a month or so before the tournament starts. Some UK bookies will offer them much earlier; sometimes a year in advance.

• How many sets is the final played over?
  The PDC World Darts Championship final is played as a best-of-13 sets match, meaning the first player to win 7 sets is crowned the world champion.

• Can I cash-out Most 180s bets in-play?
  Yes, most UK bookmakers that offer in-play cash-out allow you to cash out Most 180s bets during a match, but availability depend on the chosen betting site.

• Are darts winnings taxable in the UK?
  No, all darts betting winnings are completely tax-free for UK residents.

• Which UK books stream tournaments live?
  Bet365, Unibet, and Paddy Power commonly stream live darts tournaments for registered customers.

• What happens to bets if a player retires mid-match?
  Most bookmakers void all match and related bets if a player retires before the match is completed, unless the market has already been settled according to house rules.

• How is a nine-dart finish market settled?
  A nine-dart finish bet is settled as a winner only if a player completes a perfect leg in the designated match or tournament, otherwise stakes are lost.

• What each-way terms apply to outright markets?
  Each-way terms on outright markets typically pay 1/2 or 1/3 odds for the top two, four, or sometimes even more places, depending on the bookmaker and tournament size.