We don’t know about you, but when we hear the words ‘game shooting’ we immediately think of driven grouse. For many people it’s the pinnacle of game shooting, and the start of the grouse season on 12th August is normally the first date in the diary. Our passion for grouse shooting has over the years become something of a specialism.
It’s not for the faint-hearted however, the red grouse is arguably the most challenging bird to shoot. A team of experienced beaters drive them towards you, and waiting to see the first cluster of birds take to the sky is one of the most intense and exhilarating experiences. A totally wild and extremely agile bird, the grouse skims low across the land towards you at speeds of up to 70mph, before turning sharply on a sixpence. You really have to be on your mettle. We’ve seen many a seasoned gun return to the lodge with their tail firmly between their legs after being outwitted by this little fellow.
While you’re braced in your grouse butt, wrestling with their incredible speed and sudden change of direction, you can take some comfort in your surroundings. Whether in Derbyshire, North Yorkshire or Inverness, UK moorland offers an utterly unique and romantic backdrop. The scenery rolls on for as far as the eye can see, made up of the most wonderful colours; from the green ferns to the purple heather. Being up there in the fresh air certainly seems to puts the world into perspective.
We can arrange for you to stay in a nearby lodge or a cosy pub B&B. In our experience they offer the perfect atmosphere where you can enjoy some hearty food, sink a few ales and relive the day while sitting next to a roaring fire.
Driven Grouse Shooting is referred to as the ‘Sport of Kings’, and while not many of us can lay claim to royal titles, it’s fair to say that a few days driven grouse shooting can make us feel very special indeed.