A fast‑growing darts retailer has fired in a maximum after snapping up a prime spot on Nottingham’s Bridlesmith Gate — and the deal was done quicker than a Luke Littler checkout.
DartsScene, which only opened its first shop in Heanor last year, has bagged the unit at 52 Bridlesmith Gate in a whirlwind four‑day turnaround. The space, owned by ALB Group, was let through property firm FHP.
The new store is now being fitted out and is set to open on Saturday, May 23, with darts creator and player Charlie Murphy cutting the ribbon.
ALB Group boss Arran Bailey said the street is firmly back on the map after years of Broadmarsh‑related footfall woes. With neighbours like The Ivy and Watches of Switzerland, he says Bridlesmith Gate is “flourishing” again.
DartsScene’s rise mirrors the sport’s own boom, fuelled by the so‑called Luke Littler effect. Sky Sports pulled in record audiences for the 2024 World Championship final, with millions tuning in to watch the teenage sensation.
The Heanor store has been so busy that expansion was inevitable. Director Ryan Clarke — a former roofer who ditched the tools to follow his passion — says darts is no longer “just a pub game”.
He said the sport’s appeal spans generations: “We get six‑ and seven‑year‑olds coming in with their dads and grandparents.”
The Nottingham shop promises a full darts experience, from expert advice to a “try before you buy” setup and on‑site repointing. The Heanor branch even offers board hire by the hour for serious practice sessions.
Clarke said the Bridlesmith Gate unit was “bang on” the moment he saw it, and with footfall rising and Broad Marsh’s redevelopment underway, the team moved fast to seal the deal.
FHP surveyor Ellis Cullen called it one of her “speediest deals to date”, with viewing on Tuesday and contracts signed by Friday.
She added: “Bridlesmith Gate is once again a thriving, prime city centre location — and perfect for DartScene.”
