Where will the 2026/27 PDC World Darts Championship take place?
The 2026/27 PDC World Darts Championship will be held at Alexandra Palace, a well-known venue in North London. Fans commonly refer to it as Ally Pally, a name rooted in its rich history of hosting major events. This location has become the main home for the championship in recent years. The venue is close to its own train station and is accessible via public transport, including the Wood Green tube station on the Piccadilly Line. Its central location offers ease of access for both local and international fans.
Alexandra Palace is more than just a darts venue. It regularly serves as a site for large-scale events such as concerts, festivals, and sports activities throughout the year. It also features an ice rink, which showcases its diverse appeal. The journey to the venue includes a steep hill that many fans must climb, but this is balanced by the convenience of trains and buses. Public transit options like the W3 bus and Wood Green tube station provide direct access, making it a straightforward destination for attendees.
When is the PDC World Darts Championship scheduled to run?
The PDC World Darts Championship is set to run from 11 December 2026 to 3 January 2027. The tournament will begin with the first round in late 2026 and will feature a temporary pause during the Christmas break, which typically lasts from 24 to 27 December. The championship is designed to span into the new year, with the finals taking place after the New Year's Eve celebration. This schedule allows for a full and immersive event that stretches over a month.
Traditionally, the championship starts in the second week of December and continues past New Year’s Day. The 2025 edition followed this pattern, with the final between Luke Littler and Gian van Veen drawing a lot of attention. Fans expect a similar structure in 2026/27, with the same festive timing and the same intense competition that the event is known for.
What are the other major darts events in the UK?
Another major darts event is the WDF World Darts Championship, which will be held at the Lakeside Country Club in Frimley Green from 27 November to 6 December 2026. This venue was the home of the BDO World Championship before the WDF took over in 2023. It is a traditional and historic location for darts events, with a dedicated following. The WDF event gives players from different circuits a chance to compete and highlights the sport's growing global reach.
The World Seniors Championship, once a popular event for older players, was also a notable tournament. It allowed players like Steve Beaton, Simon Whitlock, and Mervyn King to continue competing after their PDC careers. This event was usually held in late February but has since been folded, ending a chapter in darts history. It was an alternative platform for those who still wanted to play at a high level but were past their prime on the main tour.
The PDC World Darts Championship is not the only major darts event. The Circus Tavern in Wigan has also played a role in hosting significant tournaments, such as the World Masters and the Champion of Champions. These events provided opportunities for top players to compete in high-profile matches, even when they were not part of the main PDC World Darts Championship. The PDC eventually moved its World Championship to Ally Pally, shifting the focus to this iconic London venue.
PDC players are generally prohibited from competing in the WDF World Championship. This restriction was relaxed briefly in 2023 but was later reinstated to maintain the integrity of the two systems. The rule ensures that PDC players who do not hold a Tour Card cannot compete in both championships, preventing potential conflicts. This policy helps keep the WDF and PDC events distinct and competitive in their own right.
How can fans travel to Ally Pally?
Fans planning to attend the event can reach Ally Pally by train from either Moorgate or King’s Cross stations to the dedicated Alexandra Palace station. Once there, a short uphill walk completes the journey. For those using the tube, the Piccadilly Line stops at Wood Green. From there, fans can either walk for about 15 minutes or take the W3 bus directly to the venue. These transport options provide a practical and efficient way to reach the site.
The W3 bus route connects Finsbury Park to the venue, making it a flexible option for fans coming from different parts of London. Given the steep hill leading to the venue, walking is an option, but public transit is the most convenient. No shuttle buses are currently planned, so fans are encouraged to rely on these public transport links to avoid delays and ensure a smooth arrival.
Details about ticket sales and prize money for the 2026/27 championship are yet to be fully confirmed. However, in 2025, the event featured a prize fund of £1 million, and the same amount is expected this time. The format of the tournament likely includes 128 players, as was the case in 2025. While the full list of qualifiers is not yet known, fans can look forward to a competitive and highly anticipated event.
Luke Littler, the reigning champion from 2025, is set to return to Ally Pally in 2026/27 to defend his title. He defeated Gian van Veen in the final last year, and fans are watching closely to see if he can secure a third consecutive title. Littler is a young but highly skilled player, and his potential success could further cement his status as one of the best in the sport.