News & Updates
Marston’s is on the hunt for the UK’s best pub darts team
17th January 2026
Marston’s is challenging darts enthusiasts from across the country to step up to the oche in more than 500 of its local pubs, as the Cool Hand Cup returns for 2026.
Following the success of last year’s tournament, Marston’s and Multiple Darts Major Winner Luke Humphries have teamed up once again; this time, looking to find the UK’s best darts team.
The 2026 Cool Hand Cup will be tournament-style event, featuring a four-week Round Robin League of 501, where each team will battle it out to be crowned their local pub champion. Team captains have until 25 January to sign up their teams, either online or via QR code in their local pub.
Following the league stages, the local teams with the highest number of points will advance to a Regional Knockout, taking place between 9-13 March, competing to be one of 16 teams that advance to the Grand Final. There, the winning regional teams will compete in a knockout tournament, with the ultimate champions taking home £10,000, the coveted Cool Hand Cup trophy, and the chance to play against Cool Hand Luke himself.
Luke Humphries said:
“The pub is a special place for me and my family, and I grew up playing darts at my local. Having the opportunity to meet players from up and down the country last year was fantastic, and I’m delighted to be working with Marston’s again to bring back the Cool Hand Cup. This year we’re on the lookout for the UK’s best team for me to take on and I’m already looking forward to the Grand Final. See you at the oche!”
John Green, Director of Operations at Marstons, added:
“We’re so excited to be bringing back the Cool Hand Cup with Luke again this year, this time with an even bigger cash prize. This year we’re celebrating darts as a team sport, encouraging friends and family to come together to see if they can do their pubs proud and take the title.”
“Darts is at the heart of so many of our pubs across the country, and we know how important the game is to those communities too, with thousands of players visiting their locals to socialise and throw a few darts together.”