Grouse Shooting - Where and When

The glorious 12th of August has a magic all of its own.  The heather is in full bloom and everyone is in a holiday mood.  The weather should be good and the days are long. It is the “first time over” the moors and a better than expected day is a cause for celebration; it should be a good long season.

Early September is often regarded as the best time to shoot grouse.  All the birds will be mature and they will be flying strongly.  The bloom is off the heather and picking up should be easier, but there is more chance of bad weather as the autumn equinox approaches.

In late September grouse tend to get into large packs.  They become more difficult to drive and although you will see all the birds on the moor they may be flying out of the drive over the flanker’s flags or back over the heads of the beaters!

After a rest of a week or so, October shooting can provide the very best sport, before the clocks go back at the end of the month.

Where to Shoot

Grouse moors vary considerably in size and accessibility.  Some moors are relatively flat and others mountainous enough to bring on an attack of vertigo!

Grouse moors in the North of England have proved to be the most consistent over the years although Scottish moors have a very loyal following of dedicated sportsmen.

There are only a handful of good moors, which are large enough to provide a week of grouse shooting in one area and being able to stay in a private shooting lodge adds considerably to the attraction of these estates.  Coming from afar most groups take at least 2 days shooting and we can put together packages of moors to make up a complete sporting week.

Accommodation

It is important that you are not too far from where you will be shooting and we would suggest 1 hours drive as a maximum.

Due to the fickle nature of grouse shooting it is vital that you understand the hotels policy for late cancellation of a booking. Also you should be aware of other expenses you may incur in the unfortunate event of a late cancellation by the estate.
 
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