From your first set of darts to finding the right setup for league night, Bar Sports Supplies is preparing to bring specialist darts equipment, practical services and almost 20 years of playing experience to Common Ground in North Shields.
Behind the business is Dan, a keen player who wants to make getting into darts—and improving your game—more accessible and affordable.
With plans to join us in early December, Bar Sports Supplies will bring another specialist independent business to the growing community at the Beacon Centre.
From Friday nights at the local to starting a business
Originally from Gateshead, Dan discovered darts through his stepdad. Watching the team play at their local on Friday nights sparked an interest that has stayed with him ever since.
He has played in Whitley Bay and the surrounding leagues for almost 20 years, with a break while living in Bristol before returning to the sport around five years ago.
The idea for Bar Sports Supplies grew out of time spent around the game and a simple ambition: helping more people enjoy darts without making the equipment unaffordable.
What began through word of mouth and an online presence has developed into a business supplying players, sponsoring local talent and now working towards a physical home at Common Ground.
What will you find at Bar Sports Supplies?
Dan is planning a space where customers can browse equipment, try different sets of darts and discover what works for them.
The range will include:
- Darts for different preferences and playing styles.
- Flights, shafts, cases and accessories.
- Stock from suppliers including Datadart and Red Dragon.
- New products as the collection develops.
Whether you’re starting out, returning to the sport or already playing regularly, the aim is to offer plenty of choice at accessible prices.
Bar Sports Supplies also plans to offer free dart repointing with any set of points purchased. Further services, including flight engraving and barrel conversion, are ambitions for the future.
A business built around the darts community
For Dan, the appeal goes well beyond the equipment.
“I enjoy the togetherness that being part of the community and even a team brings with it.”
There’s the excitement of a close game, the satisfaction of a win and the friendships built around regular league nights. That sense of connection is something he hopes to bring into his Common Ground space.
A specialist shop will give players somewhere to explore equipment in person and introduce newcomers to a sport Dan has enjoyed for much of his life.
Why Common Ground?
Asked what attracted him to Common Ground, Dan’s answer was straightforward:
“Definitely the community feel.”
Joining other independent businesses under one roof offers an opportunity to reach new customers and contribute something different to North Shields.
We’re looking forward to welcoming Bar Sports Supplies and seeing another personal passion grow into a local shopping destination.
Find Bar Sports Supplies at Common Ground
Planned arrival: Early December 2026, with the exact trading date to be confirmed.
Location:
Common Ground, former Wilko building
The Beacon Shopping Centre
Bedford Street
North Shields
NE29 6QF
Common Ground opens to the public on Friday 20 November 2026. Look out for a separate update confirming when Bar Sports Supplies is ready to welcome customers.
Explore the range online at Bar Sports Supplies.
Interested in trading at Common Ground?
We’d love to hear from independent businesses, makers, artists and specialist retailers interested in joining our community.
Email simmie@ilovenorthshields.com with a little about your business, photographs of your products, website or social media links and your preferred start date.
Enquiries are considered alongside the trader mix, practical requirements and available space.
