Circus Tavern

Did the Circus Tavern always smell of beer and anticipation? I wonder. Here at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, the echoes of roaring crowds and the thud of darts hitting the board are almost palpable. The Circus Tavern isn’t just any venue. It’s a legend, etched into the heart of darts history. From 1994 to 2007, this was the home of the PDC World Darts Championship, broadcast to the world by Sky Sports. Imagine the tension, the drama that unfolded within these walls. Phil Taylor, a name synonymous with darts, dominated the Circus Tavern. He reached every single PDC World Championship final held here, winning an astounding eleven titles. But the Circus Tavern also witnessed Taylor’s defeats, adding to its legendary status. In 1994, Dennis Priestley snatched the first championship title here. John Part triumphed in 2003. And in 2007, in what many consider the greatest darts match ever, Raymond van Barneveld staged an epic comeback, defeating Taylor 7-6 in a sudden-death leg. That 2007 final was more than just a match. It was the Circus Tavern’s farewell to the PDC World Championship. The tournament moved to Alexandra Palace in 2008. But the Circus Tavern’s story didn’t end there. The spirit of competition lives on. It continued to host other darts events, like the BetFred League of Legends in 2008 and the Players Championship Finals in 2009 and 2010. And in 2022, the legend was reborn as the Circus Tavern became the home of the World Seniors Darts Championship. The legacy continues. The Circus Tavern remains a vibrant hub for entertainment, hosting functions, cabaret acts, and even operating as a nightclub. So, as you stand here, remember, you’re not just at a venue. You’re at a piece of sporting history. A place where legends were made, and where the thrill of the game still hangs in the air.