THE ULTIMATE UK CLAY SHOOTING WEEKEND GUIDE

Top Shooting Grounds, Where to Stay & What to Do Nearby

 

There’s something timeless about a weekend in the British countryside, the sound of clays bursting in the air, the scent of gunpowder, and the comfort of a post-shoot meal in a country inn. Whether you’re a seasoned shot or a complete beginner, the UK offers world-class clay shooting schools surrounded by charming villages, fine hotels, and plenty of rural adventure.

Here’s our guide to the best clay shooting grounds across the UK, complete with luxury and budget stay recommendations and fun local activities to turn your shooting session into a memorable weekend getaway.

 

1. EJ CHURCHILL'S SHOOTING GROUND- BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 

Location: Lane End, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Why Go: A world-famous shooting ground with over 120 stands, professional tuition, and a training centre used by Team GB. It’s only an hour from London — perfect for a countryside escape without a long drive.

LUXURY STAY:

Danesfield House Hotel & Spa, Marlow, A grand country house overlooking the Thames, with fine dining, marble bathrooms, and one of the best spas in the South East.

BUDGET STAY:

Premier Inn High Wycombe Central – Reliable comfort, close to shops and pubs, with easy access to the A40 for E.J. Churchill.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore the Chiltern Hills for gentle hiking and scenic views.

• Visit Marlow for riverside walks, boutique shopping, or a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant like The Hand and Flowers.

2. IAN COLEY SHOOTING SCHOOL– GLOUSTERSHIRE

Location: Near Andoversford, Cheltenham

Why Go: A CPSA Premier Plus ground set in the heart of the Cotswolds, known for exceptional tuition, challenging sporting layouts, and its on-site gun shop and country clothing store.

LUXURY STAY:

Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham, A 15th-century manor with five-star comfort, a spa, and Cotswold charm.

BUDGET STAY:

The Charlton Kings Hotel – Friendly guest house with comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast, just minutes from Cheltenham.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

Explore the market towns of Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Visit a Cotswold Distillery or local farm shop for artisan produce.

3. ORSTON SHOOTING SCHOOL – NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

Location: Bottesford Lane, Orston

Why Go: One of the Midlands’ largest and most respected clay grounds, with 53 acres of shooting layouts, excellent instructors, and a relaxed clubhouse with café.

LUXURY STAY:

• Langar Hall, near Bingham, A stately country home turned boutique hotel with fine dining and cosy elegance.

BUDGET STAY:

• Travelodge Nottingham Emmanuel House – Clean, convenient, and close to the A52 for quick travel.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Take a tour of Nottingham Castle or the legendary Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.

• Visit the Vale of Belvoir for scenic walks and Belvoir Castle tours.

4. BARBURY SHOOTING SCHOOL - WILTSHIRE

Location: Wroughton, near Swindon

Why Go: Set in the rolling downs near Barbury Castle, this friendly and professional ground offers clay, air rifle, and archery experiences — ideal for mixed groups or corporate days.

LUXURY STAY:

• Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, Malmesbury, Michelin-starred dining and indulgent spa treatments.

BUDGET STAY:

• The Goddard Arms, Swindon – Traditional coaching inn with a lively pub atmosphere and hearty food.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore the Ridgeway Trail or the Iron Age hillfort at Barbury Castle.

• Visit Avebury Stone Circle or Lacock Abbey for a dose of heritage.

 

5. EATON HALL SHOOTING GROUND – DERBYSHIRE

Location: Doveridge, near Ashbourne

Why Go: A top-tier Premier Plus CPSA ground offering a massive range of layouts — from Skeet and Compak to high towers and rifle ranges — all set in 80 acres of countryside.

LUXURY STAY:

• Callow Hall Hotel, Ashbourne, An elegant country retreat with forest lodges and fine dining.

BUDGET STAY:

• Premier Inn Uttoxeter, Simple, modern, and only a short drive to the ground.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore the Peak District National Park.

• Spend an afternoon at Uttoxeter Racecourse or the Sudbury Hall & Museum of Childhood.

6. THIMBLEBY SHOOTING GROUND – NORTH YORKSHIRE

Location: Near Northallerton

Why Go: A beautifully kept ground on the edge of the North York Moors, perfect for shooters seeking peaceful scenery and expert instruction.

LUXURY STAY:

• The Cleveland Tontine, Staddlebridge, Stylish inn with refined dining and country comfort.

BUDGET STAY:

• The Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton – Friendly, affordable, and centrally located.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore the Moors National Park Centre or Mount Grace Priory.

• Visit York for history, shopping, and afternoon tea.

7. CONISTON SHOOTING GROUND – YORKSHIRE DALES

Location: Coniston Cold, Skipton

Why Go: Set on the Coniston Estate, this “Premier Plus” ground features top-class layouts, warm hospitality, and sweeping views of the Dales.

LUXURY STAY:

• The Coniston Hotel & Spa, on the same estate – Unwind in luxury,  minutes from the range.

BUDGET STAY:

• The Woolly Sheep Inn, Skipton, A welcoming pub with good food and Yorkshire charm.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore Skipton Castle or cruise the Leeds–Liverpool Canal.

• Hike in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

8. ERISWELL LODGE – SUFFOLK

Location: Brandon Road, Eriswell

Why Go: A state-of-the-art Premier Plus-rated ground with 20+ sporting stands, skeet fields, and tuition, great for beginners or experienced shots.

LUXURY STAY:

• Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, Newmarket, Elegant rooms, fine dining, and full spa facilities.

BUDGET SYAY:

• Travelodge Thetford,  Budget-friendly comfort just a short drive away.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Visit the Imperial War Museum Duxford or the Newmarket Races.

• Take a forest walk through Thetford Forest Park.

9. WEST KENT SHOOTING SCHOOL – KENT

Location: Brenchley, Tonbridge

Why Go: 20 acres of landscaped woodland with over 100 target combinations and a 100-foot tower. A brilliant ground for variety and scenery.

LUXURY STAY:

• Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells, Boutique Georgian elegance with fine wines and excellent dining.

BUDGET STAY:

• Premier Inn Tunbridge Wells, Affordable, comfortable, and close to the action.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Explore Scotney Castle or Bewl Water Reservoir.

• Wander around Royal Tunbridge Wells Pantiles for shops and cafés.

 

10. BISLEY SHOOTING GROUND – SURREY

Location: Near Woking, Surrey

Why Go: Iconic and historic, Bisley has been the heart of British shooting for over a century, offering clays, rifle ranges, and “Pay & Play” shooting for all levels.

LUXURY STAY:

• Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa, Bagshot, Five-star service, award-winning dining, and one of the UK’s top spas.

BUDGET STAY:

• Travelodge Camberley Central, Simple but comfortable, with parking and good links.

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Visit Brooklands Museum or the Surrey Hills AONB.

• Stop for lunch in Guildford or Ripley Village.