WHERE TO GO CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING IN THE UK (A GEOGRAPHIC GUIDE)
We've updated our comprehensive, geographic guide to clay pigeon shooting experience days in the U.K. - so whether you're looking for a fun birthday gift for an adventurous giftee, or to learn something new, browse our guide to clay pigeon shooting days and target sports below.
Clay Pigeon Shooting Geographic Areas
Shooting Experiences Guide to the U.K.
Looking to sharpen your shooting skills with help from the professionals?
Wherever you live in the U.K., find the perfect shooting experience for your location and budget with our comprehensive geographic guide. In this ultimate guide to clay pigeon shooting locations in the U.K., we'll outline the greatest places to enjoy clay pigeon shooting experiences in various locations across England - with a few other target sports thrown in for good measure!
Worried it's not for you? Don't be!
No longer is clay pigeon shooting an elite sport reserved only for the wealthy, or those with access to expensive tweed jackets and flat caps... as stylish as those might be.
No, these days anyone who wishes to give clay pigeon shooting a go can take part, thanks to shooting schools across the country offering affordable tuition and experience days. (Tweed encouraged, but not required.)
Target shooting is an excellent way to sharpen your hand-eye coordination, improve balance, and enjoy the great outdoors.
So if you're looking to enjoy the benefits of this sport, read on to find where the best shooting venues are near you.
But first! A quick history lesson...
A brief history of clay pigeon shooting
So, where did the unique sport of clay pigeon shooting come from? Here's a brief history:
- 1860: The Glass Ball Trap
In 1860, sportsmen needed an affordable (and less cruel) alternative to shooting pheasants and game birds, and the "glass ball trap" was invented, a glass ball filled with feathers designed for sportsmen to practice their aim. You could argue this was the first prototype for the clay target... although it looks more like a fetching Christmas tree ornament.
- 1880: Clay Target Invented in America
Seeking an alternative to the fragile glass ball trap, George Ligowsky invented and patented the first clay target in the U.S.A in 1880.
Like all good American things (Oreos, hamburgers, comedians with much whiter teeth than us) the clay target eventually made its way over to the U.K.
By 1882, clay targets were being frequently used in Britain. And so the sport of clay target (or 'Inanimate Bird') shooting began...
- End of 19th Century: Artificial Target Shooting Gains Popularity
Along with the advent of the artificial target, the sport of shooting was opened up to those who couldn't afford the expensive shooting weekends reserved for the upper classes.
Not just for the middle and lower classes, artificial target shooting became popular amongst wealthy Victorians who wanted to practice their aim before going to shoot live birds. (Eugh - Victorian people, am I right?!)
- 1920's: Animal Rights Movement
Throughout the 1920's and 30's, a movement for the correct treatment of animals swept the world, arguing the extremely controversial claim that perhaps shooting innocent animals for absolutely no reason was not the nicest thing to do!
With animal rights gaining more awareness, it became less and less popular to be seen as someone who killed animals for sport, meaning that clay targets became the perfect alternative.
Who knew you could have fun without shooting a live pigeon, eh?! Revolutionary.
1938 Be Kind to Animals Week® posters featuring the artwork of Morgan Dennis. Collection of Robert Penney.
In 1921, shooting live birds was outlawed - giving way to a new and far less cruel kind of shooting. Hooray for the pigeons and animals of the world!
- 1927: British Open Championship held
By 1927, clay pigeon shooting had gained enough interest for an open championship to be held in Britain. This popularity only increased with the years, with clay pigeon shooting steadily regaining its original position as a sport for the privileged.
- Clay Pigeon Shooting Today
After its origins as a sport for the upper-classes, clay pigeon shooting faced economic downturn along with plenty of other industries during the recession of 2008. Now, however, it's a truly affordable and accessible option for anyone who wants to give it a go - with sessions as cheap as £10, depending on where you go!
That concludes our small overview of how the sport of clay pigeon shooting came into existence.
At this point, you might be feeling eager to head out and try the sport for yourself, but perhaps you have a few questions. You're not alone!
As an experience gifts company, we at Experience Days are often tasked with answering questions about the many unique activities we sell - one of them being (spoiler alert) clay pigeon shooting! For the purpose of this guide, we've rounded up the most frequently asked questions about clay pigeon shooting below:
Clay Pigeon Shooting FAQ's
"Do I need a licence to go clay pigeon shooting?"
No! For the most part, you do not need any previous experience to go clay pigeon shooting in the U.K., as the activity centre or shooting school will provide full tuition.
Contrary to popular belief, you also do not need a licence to try clay pigeon shooting in the U.K. The shooting venue you visit will have been provided with an Exemption Permit from their local police, meaning they are able to offer tuition and shooting experiences to those without a licence, or any previous experience.
"Is clay pigeon shooting safe?"
Yes! If you are practising clay pigeon shooting in a controlled environment such as a shooting club or activity centre, expert tuition and safety briefings will be undertaken before your experience, making it perfectly safe.
Ear defenders and goggles will be provided by the activity supplier, and the gun is never loaded until the participant reaches the stand.
"What do you wear for clay pigeon shooting?"
You should dress comfortably for your clay pigeon shooting experience, keeping the weather in mind. Most clay shooting venues are at least partially outside, so please keep this in mind when deciding your footwear and of course leave the high heels at home! Wellington boots might be advisable if it's a particularly rainy or muddy day; otherwise sensible, comfortable footwear is recommended. (And yes, if you have an adorable tweed cap, that doesn't hurt either!)
"Can I go clay pigeon shooting when pregnant?"
It is not advisable to go clay pigeon shooting if you are pregnant. This is mostly because it is not possible to protect the unborn baby's ears from the sound of loud shots being fired. Although it's unlikely that the sound would damage the baby's ears, it is not possible for the instructors to monitor this, and most clay pigeon shooting venues will advise pregnant people not to take part.
"Does clay pigeon shooting hurt?"
As long as you are maintaining the correct stance and holding the gun as demonstrated by your instructors, clay pigeon shooting should not hurt.
Experienced clay pigeon shooting instructors will take the time to go through the necessary safety procedures, stance, and fit you with the right gun for your size. As long as these factors are taken care of, your shoulder will be safe and you will not experience any pain or discomfort.
"Do I need to bring anything?"
In most cases, your clay pigeon shooting provider will have two differently priced options; one for bringing your own gun, and one for those who are starting from scratch and do not have any equipment.
So in short, no, you should not need to bring anything if you select an option where all equipment (guns, clays, cartridges, etc.) is provided for you.
"Is there a minimum age for clay pigeon shooting?"
For the most part, there is not a strict minimum age for clay pigeon shooting - but particularly small children may have trouble finding a gun that fits their frame. When in doubt, enquire directly with the provider to get their advice!
Where can I go clay pigeon shooting in the U.K.?
Okay, now you're fully briefed on all the FAQ's and history of clay pigeon shooting, where do you go to try it out?
Read on to find out Experience Days' top picks for where to go clay pigeon shooting in the U.K.!
EAST MIDLANDS
Derbyshire
East Midlands Clay Sports
Kicking things off with East Midlands Clay Sports, this clay shooting venue is based in rural Sawley between Nottingham and Derby, making it ideally located for those based in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire or anywhere else in the Midlands.
East Midlands Clay Sports cater to all abilities, so whether you're a first time shooter or a seasoned pro looking to brush up on existing skills, they'll have an experience for you.
For those looking to improve, this venue specialises in lessons with expert instructors. For 1 hour of instruction, it'll be £40, but it is necessary to bring your own clays and cartridges. You can then add additional hours onto your existing lesson for £35 apiece.
Alternatively, complete beginners will want to opt for the 'Have A Go' lesson, which includes full use of all equipment, clays and cartridges. £35 per hour gets you a lesson with one of East Midland Clay Sport's experienced instructors, and will last approximately one hour dependant on group size.
Prices increase incrementally depending on the number of clays and duration of lesson; £55 for 50 clays (up to 90 minutes) £70 for 75 clays (up to 2 hours) and £90 for 90 clays (up to half day.)
Leicestershire
Field Sport UK
Field Sport UK are an outdoor activity centre based in Lount, Leicestershire, offering a range of adventures.
Amongst their unique offerings are target sports (which is what we're here for!), bushcraft activities, and assault courses.
In the shooting category, Field Sport can offer Air Rifle & Pistol Shooting to those who want to practice their aim for £32, or the traditional Clay Shooting lesson for various prices, depending on the amount of clays used.
This £36 lesson teaches beginners all the essential tips and techniques to have a great time clay pigeon shooting.
Arriving at the centre, shooters will be introduced to their instructor and rest of the group for the day. There, everyone will be taken through a full safety briefing.
The instructor will teach the group about the gun, the correct stance, and most importantly how to follow and hit a moving target.
This experience includes full use of all the kit and equipment you need, so all you need to do from here on out is take note of the correct stance and hit as many clays as possible!
Instructors will be on-hand at all times to offer advice and ensure that shooters are attaining the correct stance to get the most from their experience.
Lincolnshire
White Lodge Shooting School
White Lodge Shooting School is located near the stunning medieval ruins of Thorton Abbey in North Lincolnshire.
Shooters who choose White Lodge to learn their sport will have their pick of woodlands and lakes, undercover shooting areas for wet and windy days, and a lakeside lodge for relaxing between sessions.
For those looking to learn to shoot, White Lodge's tuition packages start at £30 per person, and include full use of equipment, cartridges and clays, plus expert instruction.
They also cater for stag, hen, and kids parties. Prices vary depending on package chosen, so get in touch with them to make your next party a little bit different!
Northamptonshire
Northampton Shooting Ground
Northampton Shooting Ground is a dedicated shooting school located on Sywell Range in rural Northampton. Their facilities boast a well-stocked clubhouse with a fully licensed bar for winding down after shooting practise, four skeet layouts, two automatic ball trap layouts and six down the line layouts, based in 100 acres of lush green parkland.
Beginners can try their one to one coaching sessions for £76, which includes up to 50 clay targets, expert mentorship and instruction, plus all necessary equipment.
For those who want to learn to shoot as part of a group, prices per person decrease with the number of shooters added.
Private parties are also available upon request.
Nottinghamshire
Haywood Oaks Activity Centre
Haywood Oaks Activity Centre specialise in providing unique outdoor activities, from clay pigeon shooting to archery.
Based in the heart of North Nottinghamshire and on the edge of Sherwood Forest famously associated with Robin Hood, there couldn't be a more appropriate place to learn target practice with your band of merry friends.
Perhaps the most authentic target practise to learn in Robin Hood's territory would be archery, but of course we're here for the clay pigeon shooting, which starts at £40 and increases depending on the package chosen.
The link above will take you to a 50 clay shooting package from Experience Days for £60!
This package includes 1 - 2 hours of tuition at the activity centre, commencing with a safety briefing about correct procedures and how to handle the gun properly.
Once ready, your first clay will be released and you'll experience the deafening boom of the shotgun, and hopefully hit the target!
Throughout the session your expert instructor will give you tips and guidance, so by the 50th clay you'll be shooting like a pro, and swiftly signing up for more lessons.
The equipment can be adjusted to suit your build, and the guns use low recoil cartridges to avoid any painful kickback, meaning this experience is perfect for beginners and seasoned shooters alike.
"A really enjoyable introduction to clay pigeon shooting. The instructor was very knowledgeable and helped me to hit plenty of clays. It felt safe at all times. I would certainly recommend this activity at this venue."
Michael - Nottingham 03/04/2022 | Verified Experience Days Participant
EAST OF ENGLAND
Bedfordshire
Clay Shooting for Two with Sporting Targets
Sporting Targets is a stunning clay shooting complex set in 40 acres of countryside in Bedfordshire.
Tuition is offered in incremental price layers, beginning at £85 for 1 hour with 100 clays included. With this, you'll gain one-to-one tuition with one of Sporting Target's expert shooters.
They also offer a range of experience days, including multi-shooting adventures featuring a range of disciplines; archery, crossbows, air rifles and air pistols are all on offer, as well as quad biking and 4x4 driving for those who prefer to take their adventures on the dirt track.
If you’re looking to learn clay pigeon shooting with some company, this 2 person package is ideal for you.
Your clay pigeon shooting experience will begin with a safety briefing outlining the techniques, skills and potential hazards of firing a shotgun. Once briefed and ready to hit the range, you'll be coached on how to hold the gun, the stance to take and how to aim.
With 75 clays and 75 bullets, you and a friend will need your ultimate concentration and fearless nerves of steel.
With the expertise on hand at the centre, you'll be practising your stance, aim and your firing - hopefully resulting in a few orange puffs of smoke as you try and prove a better aim than your friend! The experience will then finish with a debrief from the instructor.
"What a fantastic day! My brother and I booked in to this experience to try something a bit different, and we most certainly enjoyed it. The sun was shining, all staff were friendly and my brother actually hit a few targets!! The complex is much larger than anticipated, with a clubhouse perfect for lunch. The staff are onsite to assist at all times!"
Ray Kenward - Luton 08/04/2019
Cambridgeshire
Cambridge Gun Club
Based on the serene Chear Fen Farm in Cottenham, the Cambridge Gun Club boasts a range of facilities for first time and advanced shooters, including an air rifle range, clay shooting stands, gift shops and even an on-site cafe for the post-shooting munchies.
They offer a taster session for beginners, starting at a rate of £45 for 25 targets, with no cap on duration. This can be booked on a one-to-one basis or as part of a group, and kids as young as 10 years can take part.
If you have some previous experience, lessons can be taken on an hourly rate starting from £50, excluding the cost of clays and cartridges.
Essex
Clay Pigeon Shoot
Clay Pigeon Shoot Ltd have been going since 2000, and its team have been working together even longer than that; since 1986.
Their venues are spread across the Essex and Hertfordshire areas, and offer a range of different clay pigeon shooting experiences for the novice and experienced shooters.
For total beginners, tuition is the best route to take, and £79 will earn you a one hour lesson with an expert instructor, plus 50 clays. The prices increase incrementally depending on number of shots used.
If you're a stag and hen party, you're in luck, as Clay Pigeon Shoot Ltd. have a range of different activity days to suit. Prices vary, so enquire on their website to find out more.
Hertfordshire
Target Practice with The Edge Outdoors
Now onto something a bit different for our Hertfordshire section!
This target practice shooting experience does not feature any clay pigeon shooting, and instead opts for three different disciplines, giving participants the chance to try out something new.
During this experience with Edge Outdoors, you’ll try:
Target Archery - where in a ‘bare bow’ style of shooting, you'll try to hit your target.
Crossbows - these take some strength to load, but you'll be amazed by their power and accuracy.
Air Rifle Shooting - using a .22 rifle, you'll attempt to hit a number of different objects, ranging from paper targets through to metal figures that flips back if / when you hit them.
The target practice experience kicks off with a safety briefing that means everyone is aware of how they must behave while out on the shooting ranges.
Once the briefing is done, you will be shown the correct stance , as well as how to hold each weapon. When you have shown you can stand and hold each weapon correctly, you will have a theory lesson on how to aim.
You will then spend time practising your aim, receiving coaching throughout. Once you have a handle on the basics, you will have the chance to get a little competitive, with a fun game. Here, all participants can show off their skills, trying to come out on top!
At the end of the shooting experience you will receive a certificate that will include your (surely perfect) shooting scores!
"We had such a good day at the shooting range! Our instructor was friendly and helpful, and the whole experience was fun and brill! I would highly recommend target practice in Hertfordshire!"
Adam - Edgware 06/02/2019 | Verified Experience Days Participant
Norfolk
Mid Norfolk Shooting Ground
Learn to shoot clays with the pros at Mid Norfolk Shooting Ground. This unique centre is located in over 50 acres of serene woodland, and features everything a first-time shooter could hope for from a clay pigeon experience. Facilities include floodlit skeet and DTL ranges, air gun range, club-house, a gun shop and an onsite cafe where you can unwind after shooting.
If you're a first-time shooter, you'll want to opt for their Beginner lesson, which starts at £70 for one shooter, earning you 60 minutes and 50 clays.
If you've shot before and are looking to build on existing skills, Improver lessons take the same pricing structure, beginning at £70 for one shooter and going up to £100 for two shooters. They also offer brush-up lessons for the same price.
Just looking to 'have a go'? There's an experience for that! For just £10, you can try your hand at clay pigeon shooting with all equipment provided. (Currently temporarily suspended due to COVID-19.)
Suffolk
Suffolk Activities
Suffolk Activities are an outdoor activity park based in Barnham, Thetford, offering a range of different adventures.
Amongst their offerings are quad biking, archery, fly fishing, and, of course, clay pigeon shooting.
One-to-one lessons are available, and include all necessary equipment and clays for £80.
For experience days and group sessions, experiences are priced according to how many clays are used and start at £43 per person for 20 clays.
LONDON
West London Shooting School
City mice needn’t miss out on the seemingly countryside-centric sport of clay pigeon shooting, and those who live in London might be surprised to learn that there is a shooting club right on their doorstep!
The West London Shooting School is based in Northolt, just 32 minutes outside London, and offers a broad range of shooting experiences.
In typical London fashion, the prices are a little steeper than if you opted for somewhere less central. A one hour lesson starts at £112 for non-members, but can be split out between participants to make it more affordable. A one hour lesson with two or more people sharing is £94 per person for non-members, making it the slightly more economical option.
Of course, if you're looking for a more long-term situation, you may want to look into their membership options! This can be paid on a monthly or annual basis and includes discounts for juniors, under 30's, family and corporate packages.
NORTH EAST
County Durham
The North East Outdoor Pursuits Centre
Based on Castlewood Farm, The North East Outdoor Pursuits Centre offers a challenging day's fun in the glorious Durham countryside.
Clay pigeon shooting prices start at just £40 per person for a 25 shot package and increase to £60 for a 50 shot package. Depending on group size, you can expect this lesson to last between 1 and 2 hours.
Firstly, your instructor will demonstrate how to properly handle and use a shot gun – with a clear emphasis on safety. Next, you’ll take to the shooting ground and attempt to master a variety of sporting targets.
Northumberland
30 Clays with All Out Adventures
Located in the idyllic market town of Hexham, All Out Adventures offer a range of outdoor activities, from quad biking to segways to archery.
This clay pigeon shooting experience includes 30 clays, and begins with an introduction to the day. You’ll learn about the clays, and the guns you'll be using to blow them into absolute smithereens. After a quick talk on how to hold the guns, how to stand, how to aim, and how to hit those flying targets, you'll pick up your weapons and put theory into practice.
You’ll have plenty of time to really get to grips with your gun and work on your stance, your aim, and your focus. Perfect for first time shooters!
Tyne and Wear
Clay Pigeon Shooting with Turboventure
Located just outside Newcastle, Turboventure is a thrilling outdoor activity centre with a huge portfolio of experiences to try. Amongst them are paintballing, tank driving, hovercraft, quad biking, off-road driving and archery.
The star of the show however is their clay pigeon shooting experience, which costs £55 per person and includes 25 cartridges and clays, full tuition from an expert instructor and plenty of practice time!
After being taken through a safety briefing, you'll be shown how to use the shotgun in a private lesson with your instructor. Once you're confident, it's time to begin your experience.
From here, you'll don your eye and ear protection (included in the price), take aim and shoot. Your instructors will be on-hand at all times to ensure you're hitting your targets as accurately as possible.
NORTH WEST
Cheshire
50 Clay Shooting with Mickley Hall Shooting School
Mickley Hall are a shooting school specialising in clay pigeon shooting, based in the beautiful countryside of Nantwich. Their facilities boast a wide range of targets to suit both beginners and advanced shooters, and include an undercover range for those less than beautiful days.
This voucher for £57 will earn you a 50 clay shooting experience with the school’s best instructors. Your shooting experience will begin on arrival at the centre, where you'll be welcomed and given a thorough safety briefing so that you are confident in handling the equipment.
You'll then go over the basic shooting techniques such as stance, grip, aim and tracking a target across the sky. Then the REAL fun can start as you put what you have learned into practice!
There are ten stands on the site which all offer a challenging and very different variety of targets, so there really is something to suit all abilities, and 50 clays will give you plenty of chances. As soon as you knock a clay out of the air you'll be hooked on this exhilarating activity; there's nothing like the thrill and sense of achievement!
Cumbria
Green Quarries Shooting Ground
Located just 9 miles southwest of Carlisle, Green Quarries Shooting Ground is on the fringe of the Lake District National Park - meaning that it benefits from some incredible scenery.
Lessons can be taken on a pre-booked basis, and are given by Peter Hetherington, a C.P.S.A. qualified and registered coach. First-time shooters, small groups, individuals, children, shooters with experience and game shooters are all welcome to take advantage of Peter's expertise.
Greater Manchester
Manchester Clay Shooting
Manchester Clay Shooting are based in 400 acres of woodland, just a 20 minute drive from Manchester city centre. Their club benefits from a cosy club house, where shooters can relax and unwind between sessions.
A one hour lesson with their onsite professional clay pigeon shooting instructors costs £75 for non-members, £68 for members.
For those who are more serious about taking up shooting, there is the option of a pre-shotgun certificate 5 lesson course. This includes guns, clays, cartridges, and instruction. A 5 lesson voucher comes at a price of £435, whereas 6 lessons will cost you £522.
Juniors aren't left out of this sport, and Junior Series Lesson Packages can be purchased at a starting price of £200.
There are plenty of packages for stag and hen do's, and take the form of bronze, silver and gold tiers starting at £77. Corporate packages are also available as part of this pricing structure.
Lancashire
Toplands Clay Shoot
Based on Toplands Farm in Woodplumpton, Toplands Clay Shoot has been running for 15 years.
Lessons can be purchased from £40, which includes 25 clays and tuition.
They also offer memberships, including a 12 month senior membership for over 65's, which starts at £18.
Merseyside
Zombie Survival Experience - Zombie Infection Liverpool
Now for something a little different... If you prefer your weapons to be of the airsoft variety, this Zombie Infection Survival experience in Liverpool may be the answer.
You'll carry out your airsoft mission in a 'deserted mental asylum'. The ZI soldiers will brief you and your team on the mission ahead, and train you in proper use of the replica airsoft weapons that'll help you defeat the zombies that wait in the darkness, then you're on your own!
You'll face a number of challenges that will test your determination, your instinct, and most importantly, how well you work as a team in the face of danger. This experience is not for the faint-hearted, as the zombies will not be afraid of grabbing your clothing to slow you down and fail your mission. Make sure you have each other's backs!
NORTHERN IRELAND
Londonderry
Lock N Load Derry
Kicking off the Northern Ireland section with another airsoft experience, Lock N Load Derry is a great place to come and blow off some steam!
Lock N Load features a 9 lane range, and an array of airsoft weapons including snipers, assault rifles, shotguns, hand guns and more.
A truly affordable option for those who just want to practice their aim, Lock N Load's pricing starts at £25 for 40 minutes gaming, £30 for 60 minutes, and £35 for 80 minutes.
Should you wish to add more excitement to your target practice, the centre also features paintball, laser tag, nerf wars, and battlefield experiences!
Tyrone
Urbalshinny Sporting Lodge
Urbalshinny Sporting Lodge is based in rural Omagh, surrounded by picturesque countryside.
They specialise in clay pigeon shooting for novices, experienced shooters, stag and hen do's, plus corporate events.
Their facilities feature both Down the Line and Simulated Game & Sportrap ranges, and 25 clays with cartridges can be purchased for £10. Gun hire is purchased separately at a cost of £10.
If you're looking to take part in clay pigeon shooting as part of a stag or hen do, a group of 10 people or less are priced at £35 a head, which includes full use of equipment, safety briefing and some coaching.
Antrim
Courtlough Shooting Grounds
Courtlough Shooting Grounds in Balbriggan offer a wide range of lessons for experienced shooters and novices, so whatever your level of ability, they have a lesson to suit.
An introductory clay shooting lesson starts at €39, and is ideal for the absolute beginner. You'll meet your instructor for the day, who will assist you with a gun fit, take you through a safety briefing and teach you basic techniques for shooting different targets. Your lesson includes 25 clays and cartridges, but a 50 clay package can be purchased instead for €59.
Shooters can benefit from the cosy onsite club house to relax with a drink after sessions. The clubhouse serves hot food from 9:30 am - 4:30pm on weekends, two fully licenced bars and barista trained staff.
SCOTLAND
Edinburgh
Mad Max Adventures
If you’re looking for a fun day out in Edinburgh, look no further than Mad Max Adventures. At this unique outdoor activity venue, you can take part in quad biking, off-road 4x4 driving, archery, highland games, and clay pigeon shooting.
£60 will buy you 1 hour of clay pigeon shooting with 25 cartridges and unlimited clays on their purpose built shooting range, including tuition from an expert instructor. You can expect to start easy and get slowly more difficult as the session progresses, meaning that as your skill level improves, so does the challenge of the sport!
Fife
Scottish Clay Shooting Centre
For clay pigeon shooting in Fife, the Scottish Clay Shooting Centre is the place to be.
Nestled in the heart of the Leuchars leafy green countryside, this venue is conveniently located 10 minutes from St. Andrews and 15 minutes from Dundee. This shooting centre will happily cater to any skill level, with expert instructors on-hand to assist.
An introductory lesson will cost you £30, and last for approximately 30 minutes. This is the perfect way for a beginner to get to grips with the sport. More advanced, longer lessons are available for more experienced shooters.
If you're more interested in an experience day than a straightforward lesson, group packages are available for stag do's, hen parties and corporate events.
Glasgow
Clay Target Shooting
Clay Target Shooting in Glasgow is a premier clay pigeon shooting centre offering several different shooting areas, a wide range of guns and a friendly, well-stocked club house.
Upon arrival at the centre you'll be met by your expert instructor, who will give a brief introduction to the sport. They'll then assess your ability and experience level before equipping you with your gun for the session.
After a safety briefing, they will show you all the techniques you'll need to implement in order to hit the target. By the end of your session, you'll feel like an expert shooter!
This centre offers a range of packages and price points; just contact them to find out more.
Perth
Clay Pigeon Shooting, Nae Limits Perth
Nae Limits are an Experience Days provider, and home to the biggest clay pigeon shooting range in Scotland!
For £65 a head, you can expect an hour of expert instruction and clay pigeon shooting.
Upon greeting you and signing you in, they'll give you a safety briefing and show you all the skills you'll need to perfect your aim, fire, and (hopefully) hit the target!
This activity is available all year long, so whatever the weather, you can practice your aim.
Stirlingshire
Clay Pigeon Shooting In Falkirk with the National Shooting Centre - 50 Clays
For the perfect clay pigeon shooting experience day in Stirlingshire, visit the National Shooting Centre.
The clay pigeon shooting experience is ideal whether you are a total beginner, have tried clay shooting before, or are even setting your sights on competing - your instructor will tailor your experience to suit your needs and make sure that you get the tuition you need.
Your experience begins at the shooting centre where you will meet your instructor for a briefing and an introduction to the experience and the sport. Once you have been provided with all the necessary safety and protective gear, you will head or the shooting range to begin the real fun!
SOUTH EAST
Berkshire
Donnington Grove
Donnington Grove in Berkshire is a great place to discover the joy of clay pigeon shooting or brush up on existing skills! Nestled in the stunning Berkshire countryside, this activity centre is a serene setting to get to grips with this thrilling sport.
For individual lessons, £80 will get you one-to-one tuition with an expert instructor. If you’d prefer a group lesson, the centre requires a minimum of 3 people and £35 a head.
Buckinghamshire
Experience The Country
Take part in a thrilling group clay pigeon shooting lesson with Experience The Country, Buckinghamshire!
You’ll meet your expert instructor at the activity centre located just a short journey from Milton Keynes. After meeting the rest of your group, there’ll be a safety briefing and introduction to the art of shooting at moving targets.
Then, it’ll be your turn to give it a go! Your instructor will be on hand throughout, giving you hints and tips on how best to hold the gun and where to aim in order to hit the clay and get that all important ‘Kill’!
You’ll be out in the countryside for around one and a half hours as you shoot at 50 clays, giving you plenty of time to perfect your skills and enjoy the excitement of this awesome shooting activity.
East Sussex
High Powered Air Rifle Shooting - Sussex
Not strictly clay pigeon, but still an excellent shooting experience for those wanting to practice their aim!
Located in the woodland of Crowborough, Go Wild At the Warren boasts a purpose-built range and the instruction of a shooting expert with years of experience in the industry.
You'll start by learning how the guns work, and going through all the safety aspects to ensure you have proper control over the firearm. Taking turns, you'll shoot from a seated position and aim through telescopic sights at a variety of targets - from swinging cans of cola hung from string overhead to stationery targets on the ground, you won't be able to get enough of seeing those objects explode into tiny pieces!
These guns are so powerful that they need special pellets to take the strain, making this experience not one for the faint of heart...
Hampshire
Spitfire Shoot Hampshire
Spitfire Shoot are located in the beautiful countryside of Stockbridge, so you'll be surrounded by rolling green fields as you learn to shoot clays!
Lessons are available from £80 and taster sessions are available for £55 per person including clays, cartridges, gun hire, safety equipment and full instruction through out.
Isle of Wight
Top Targets, Yarmouth
Top Targets is a clay pigeon shooting centre in the Isle of Wight, located on Tapnell Farm.
Offering a huge array of packages and price points, Top Targets can cater to any skill level.
On the lower end of the scale, £45 will get you rifle hire, 30 shots, ammunition, expert tuition and score cards - along with the necessary hearing and eye protection, of course.
On the higher end of the scale, the £65 'Gold Shotgun' package consists of 60 clays, shotgun hire, ammunition, tuition from an experienced coach, and hearing / eye protection.
Top Targets truly does cater for everyone, so enjoy target practice whatever your skill level!
Kent
Dartford Clay Pigeon Shooting with 100 clays
Along with clay pigeon shooting lessons and facilities, Dartford Clay Shooting Club in Kent benefits from an in-house catering service providing hot and cold food and drink, plus a club house with snooker table and large screen TV.
Your shooting experience will begin with a welcome to the Dartford clay shooting club, and a safety briefing and introduction to the guns and clays.
Once you have been kitted out with all the equipment you need, it's time to start shooting! You'll be in an all-weather, sheltered shooting station, where your qualified shooting instructor will teach you the correct stance and how to hold your gun. You will learn a bit about aiming and timing, however the only thing that will really help you learn and improve is to start doing it!
With 100 clays to aim at, you should see a great improvement in your skills throughout the course of the lesson, and should experience plenty of moments of pure satisfaction, as you enjoy the immensely rewarding sound of the clay smashing when you hit your target!
If you have previous shooting experience, you'll have the chance to hone your skills, or perhaps work on any bad habits or difficulties you have. This shooting experience includes a light lunch (a baguette with a drink) in the clubhouse after your lesson.
Oxfordshire
Clay Pigeon Shooting Overnight Break For 2 - Oxford
The Oxfordshire Golf Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to learn a new sport as part of a relaxing mini break.
This weekday overnight package in Oxford is the perfect combination of outdoor activities and blissful relaxation, giving a lucky couple the opportunity to enjoy an exciting clay pigeon shooting experience, a delicious three-course dinner, a stay in one of the hotel's luxury rooms, and a cooked breakfast in the morning to top off a wonderful break.
The Oxfordshire Hotel and Spa is located in the beautiful Chilterns, and is designed to replicate the classic decor of English country houses. It boasts a Championship Golf Course and a luxury spa that was awarded 4 Bubbles by the Good Spa Guide, as well as a restaurant overlooking the grounds and 46 uniquely styled rooms.
Included with the Clay Pigeon Shooting Overnight package is a three course dinner in the Sakura Restaurant, one night's stay in a double room, a cooked breakfast the following morning, and an exciting 50 shot Clay Pigeon Shooting experience - making this the ideal getaway that can be enjoyed by everyone!
Surrey
Headley Clay Pigeon Shooting
Headley Clay Pigeon Shooting Club is a family-run centre set in 11 acres of forest. 5 qualified instructors provide over this facility, which boasts a Greek Cypriot barbecue for when all that shooting inevitably works up an appetite!
Headley features a range of shooting packages at different price points, but for beginners, there’s the £60 Essential Basic Tuition package. This will get you a 1 - 1.5 hour lesson with one of their seasoned shooting pros, featuring tuition on eye dominance and stance, information on gun safety, loan of a gun with 25 clays, safety wear and a BBQ lunch. At the end of your lesson, you'll have earned your certificate of completion, which you can proudly display in your home so everybody knows you're a clay pigeon shooting champion!
West Sussex
Special Ops Experience with 3xtreme
Based in the East Grinstead countryside, 3xtreme specialises in a range of outdoor activities – including shooting! (Not clay pigeons, but still a great way to work on your aim.)
The day will begin with an introduction and briefing from the expert instructors, before getting kitted out and shown to the first activity. Each task involves different skills that soldiers will use in various high-pressure situations, so participants must listen carefully to the instructions and advice of the marshals in order to be successful.
There's knife throwing, C02 pistol shooting, axe throwing, airsoft assault rifle shooting, spear throwing, air pistol shooting and sniper air rifle shooting to try, followed by a 40ft tower to abseil down and an indoor climbing wall to top it all off.
This is a fantastic day out for competitive friends that you'll be talking about for weeks to come!
SOUTH WEST
Avon
Coombs Clay Shooting, Bath
Coombs Clay Shooting is based in Springleaze Park, Bath, and benefits from on-site toilets, parking, and refreshments available to purchase on the day of your clay shooting adventure.
If you are based in Bath and looking to learn clay pigeon shooting, this introductory lesson is the perfect place to start.
Priced at £45.99 a person, this roughly one hour session includes an introduction to clay shooting, firearm safety brief, eye and ear protection, 30 clays and 25 cartridges. You have the option to double up for £15.
Cornwall
Lower Lake Shooting School
Lower Lake Shooting School is located in the picturesque countryside between Devon and Cornwall. Offering a wide range of shooting options from beginner lessons to advanced clay shooting, this school cater to every ability and experience level.
Lessons start at £80, which earns you one lesson for 2 people, shooting 50 targets each.
You'll be taught by expert instructors, and use top of the range cartridges and clays. Full safety gear and ear protectors will be provided.
Lessons increase to £88 and £115 incrementally, which increases the duration and number of targets used.
Devon
Devon Clay Shooting
Devon Clay Shooting is a great place to go for a well-rounded clay pigeon shooting experience day.
Set in the stunning Devon countryside, your range for shooting could include steep valleys, country house lakes, open moorland or even a view of the English Channel as you perfect your shot.
Devon Clay Shooting provide a bacon roll and tea / coffee for breakfast before starting your safety briefing, and cater lunch for participants after you've worked your appetite back up again!
Prices vary depending on package chosen; contact Devon Clay Shooting to find out more!
Dorset
Medieval Sport Trio with Insight Activities
Another clay pigeon shooting alternative for those who prefer their target practice medieval, this sport trio in Dorset is a brilliant activity day in the countryside.
Located in the Dorset countryside, Insight Activities will show you how these traditional sporting activities should be played.
Arriving at the centre, you will meet your group in the car park, where you will taken to the shooting ranges for your activities. Beginning with Archery, you will receive expert tuition from a professional ArcheryGB coach. You will be trained to hit targets from up to 20m away and practise your aim by shooting small balloons.
Once you are confident in Archery you can go up a level to Crossbows. If you are a fan of The Walking Dead, this is sure to make you feel like you’re the next Daryl! You will be aiming at zombies from a 25m distance, with the help of the magnified scope you will definitely succeed in hitting bullseye - or in this case - the zombie’s head!
Once you’ve mastered the crossbow, you can move onto the rugged activity that is Axe Throwing! You will learn this ancient skill with custom designed unique battle axes that have been forged by a local New Forest blacksmith.
Once you have had a go at each of the activities and still want more, you can work your way around the activities at your own pace. You may want to focus on perfecting your throw, hitting those balloon targets by engaging in your inner Robin Hood, or concentrate on getting those zombies with the more modern alternative, the Crossbow.
Gloucestershire
Hailes Shooting Ground
Located in the picturesque Cheltenham countryside on Hailes Fruit Farm, Hailes Shooting Ground offers lessons and experience days for all abilities.
For 2 or more shooters, you can purchase the group lesson at £65 per person. This gets you 40 shots per person and expert tuition from qualified instructor. You can also pay the same price for a private lesson, but with 50 shots instead of 40.
Somerset
1-Hour Private Rifle Shooting Experience with Aim Training South West
This experience takes place at Rifleman Firearms, a dedicated rifle range near Hambridge, Somerset. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by an instructor who’ll begin the session with a safety briefing and introduction to the .22 caliber bolt action rifle you’ll be using. They’ll then demonstrate the correct way to hold, aim and fire your weapon, before letting you have a go yourself!
The state-of-the-art lanes feature illuminated electronic targets, an MOD-spec ventilation system, heated firing points and ambient lighting. The kiosks can be set up for prone, bench and standing shooting disciplines, and even if you’ve never held a gun before, you’ll be amazed at what a little practice can do.
With 150 rounds of ammunition at your disposal—plus more tips and advice from your instructor—you’ll be hitting those targets in no time!
Wiltshire
Barbury Shooting School
Barbury Shooting School is located in acres of beautiful countryside, near Barbury Castle. Providing everything from shooting practice to expert tuition, this school caters to all needs.
Prices vary depending on the package chosen and number of shooters taking part. 1 hour lesson costs £80 for one person, £100 for 2 or £105 for 3.
WALES
Cardiff
Adventure Wales
Based in the Taff Valleys of South Wales, just 20 minutes outside Cardiff, Adventure Wales are an outdoor activity centre offering all manner of outdoor adventures. Included in their offerings is archery, quad biking, gorge walking, axe throwing and more.
Of course, what we're most interested in for this guide is the clay pigeon shooting, which you can take part in using 12 bore Beretta shotguns, Promatic traps and Eley Hawk cartridges. All instructors are A.P.S.I trained, so you know you're in safe hands.
Prices start at £40, which gets you approximately an hour and a half of clay pigeon shooting with expert instruction and safety gear included. If you fancy making a day of it, you can add gorge walking and a packed lunch to your clay pigeon shooting for a total of £81.50.
Swansea
Clay Shooting in Wales
Located just outside Swansea, this clay pigeon shooting centre in Waun Uchaf offers a variety of options and lessons.
For £50, you can take part in a private lesson, which includes use of a gun, cartridges and clays.
Upon arrival at the centre, you can choose a shotgun from the wide variety available to find your perfect fit!
If you're a group wanting to take part in clay pigeon shooting together, there's no shortage of options.
For a minimum of 2 people, £40 a head will get you a clay pigeon shooting session with 25 clays, or £60 per person for 50 clays. A non-refundable £10 deposit is required to secure the booking.
WEST MIDLANDS
Herefordshire
Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting for Two with Laserclayz
Lazerclayz shooting range is in Ewyas Harold, on the welsh border between Hereford and Abergavenny.
On arrival, you’ll be greeted by your instructors who’ll begin by explaining how the system works. As the name suggests, laser clay pigeon shooting is an electronic version of the popular sport. Modified shotguns fire laser beams instead of shells, and a digital scoreboard keeps a continual score.
It’s eco-friendly, quiet, cost-effective and suitable for the whole family (aged 10+). Better still, it allows up to five people to shoot at once, so there’s scope for some real competition! During the one-hour session, you’ll enjoy six rounds of shooting, including fastest finger and twist & pull games.
The winner of the final, individual round will be crowned the day’s hotshot and awarded a prize bottle. The question is—will it be you?
Shropshire
The Edge Adventure, Shropshire
Based on Newtown House Farm in Shropshire, The Edge Adventure offer all manner of outdoor activities. Included in their activity packages is archery, climbing walls, quad biking and high ropes, amongst others.
Most importantly, their clay pigeon shooting comes at a price of £40 for 25 shots, or £55 for 50 shots, and will last anywhere between one and two hours depending on the size of your group.
Staffordshire
Oakedge Shooting Ground
Prices range from £8.00 - £140.00 depending on experience chosen
Set in the sprawling, green Wolseley Park Estate, the Oakedge Shooting Ground is the perfect place to get to grips with this unique sport.
£100 will get you a lesson and 100 clays and cartridges. To see all price points, click here.
Warwickshire
Honesberie Shooting School
Honesberie Events are a venue and activity provider based in Warwickshire. Featuring a lakeside hut and beautiful surrounding countryside, this venue makes for the perfect place to learn to shoot.
Prices vary depending on the package chosen, but available are 25 and 50 shot packages for an introduction to shooting, plus newcomers days for those who wish to actively take up clay pigeon shooting after their introduction. These newcomer days offer a more in-depth look at the sport and equipment used.
For a unique package that feeds you as well as teaching you to shoot, opt for the Ladies who Brunch and Shoot package, exclusively for women to practice their shooting, enjoy food in peaceful surroundings and get to know other women who love clay pigeon shooting just as much as they do!
Worcestershire
Hereford and Worcester Shooting Ground
For clay pigeon shooting at Hereford and Worcester Shooting Ground, you can either choose a 'Have A Go' package or the 'Clay Pigeon Shooting Starter Package'. Your Have A Go package costs £45, earning you 32 clay pigeons per person, target presentations, safety briefing, 1.5 hours of shooting and tea / coffee in the club house after your session.
The starter package is more intended for those who might want to take up the sport seriously after their session, and comes at a price of £525.00 for adults and £450.00 for juniors.
Included in the package are 6 private lessons with a qualified shooting instructor, where you'll learn proper use of a suitable shotgun, and use high-grade safety equipment, clays, and fibre wad cartridges; an introduction to the different clay shooting disciplines offered at the venue; access to clay pigeon shooting help sheets; guidance on how to complete your shotgun license application; and a police-approved Brattonsound metal cabinet worth £181 to hold your shotguns.
YORKSHIRE AND HUMBERSIDE
Humberside Shooting
Humberside Shooting Ground are a family-run clay pigeon shooting facility offering a range of lessons and shooting packages for beginners and more advanced shooters.
Featuring the largest clay shooting range in the north of England, Humberside Shooting Ground are a professional-grade shooting facility who cater to all abilities!
A 'Have A Go' lesson will cost you £45, and includes full tuition from qualified instructors, cartridges, hearing protection and insurance.
25 Clay Pigeon Shooting with Yorkshire Outdoors
Taking full advantage of the stunning Yorkshire countryside, Yorkshire Outdoors are located in beautiful, rural Felixkirk and offer a huge range of activities, including 4x4 driving, quad biking, segways and of course, clay pigeon shooting.
With this clay pigeon shooting experience voucher, your day will begin with a safety briefing so that you are comfortable and familiar with all the equipment. Next, highly trained instructors (AMICSI qualified) will take you through the basics, such as stance, grip, aim and tracking a target across the sky, and before you know it you'll be dusting your first clay.
This clay pigeon shooting experience also gives you the chance to shoot with light or heavy guns, soft or hard cartridges and at a wide variety of targets - all of which adds up to an exciting and special day out.
Triple Shooting Experience for 2 with Live For Today
Live For Today are an activity provider in Leeds, Harrogate, Kendal and York whose centres feature an impressive roster of experiences, from escape rooms, to glamping, to canoeing, bushcraft and many more.
This shooting experience takes place at their Hazelwood venue, and is a great opportunity to practice your aim.
On arrival at the venue, friendly staff will greet you and give you a safety briefing on the three activities ahead. Up first, crossbows! After a quick demonstration it'll be your turn to test your aim, having a go at three games including 'Shoot The Stag', 'Killer', and 'Destroy The Zombies'.
Archery is up next, and you'll soon see why this sport has stayed popular throughout the ages. Ever wanted to shoot an apple off someone's head? Well, now's your chance - although it will be a mannequin rather than a real person!
Finally, you'll get to try out air rifle shooting, using telescopic sights to fire at a range of targets including difficult sniper-style shots. To top off a fantastic day, every participant will have a chance to shoot at the exploding firework - but who will emerge victorious?
Air Rifle Shooting Experience for Two with Live for Today
This air rifle shooting experience in Leeds is also run by Live For Today, and focuses on just one discipline of shooting for those who want their focus to be narrower!
Whether you're hoping to surprise a daredevil with a unique gift or are looking for a fun and adrenaline pumping activity to enjoy with a friend, this sensational air rifle experience is guaranteed not to disappoint. At a top activity centre near York and Leeds, this is an exceptional chance to get to grips with a high-powered and accurate air rifle and see how far your shooting skills come.
In a secure environment with expert tuition, you'll be in very safe hands, so the only thing you need to worry about is enjoying yourself. This shooting activity comprises of a range of exhilarating competitions; in a picturesque woodland environment, you'll work your way through a series of challenging targets which vary in difficulty, from the fun and easy to top sniper level! Unlike other shooting experiences, you will have unlimited pellets so will get to enjoy even more shooting time with these incredible telescopic weapons.
The grand finale is is the competition to see who can shoot the exploding firework, so prepare yourself for a serious buzz as sparks fly!
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading our geographic guide to clay pigeon shooting and target practice in the U.K. We hope you've found somewhere to discover this uniquely British sport, or brush up on your existing skills! If you're still looking for the perfect place to go shooting or a unique gift for someone who wants to try it, browse our full range of UK clay pigeon shooting experience days or target shooting experiences across the U.K. here. Have a question about clay pigeon shooting, or a tip we've missed? Please feel free to leave a comment; we'd love to hear from you!
