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Perfect Your Shot at the 5 Best Clay Pigeon Shooting Spots in and Near Edinburgh
Did you know that clay pigeon shooting was originally called ‘Inanimate Bird Shooting’? The sport got its name because real pigeons were used in the early days, but thankfully, they switched to clay targets.
Well, if you’re looking to enjoy clay pigeon shooting near Edinburgh, you’re in for a treat! From breathtaking estates to award-winning instructors, we’ve rounded up the best spots for both beginners and seasoned shooters.
Ready to put your marksmanship skills to the test? Dive into our guide to find the best places for clay pigeon shooting in and around Edinburgh!
The Big Shoot
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Website: https://thebigshoot.co.uk/
Address: Morton Road, Midcalder, West Lothian, EH53 0JT
Contact Information: 0800 078 9508
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:30am-5pm
- Saturday: 9am-2pm
Admission Price:
- 25 Clay Shoot from £52.99
- 30 Clay Shoot from £59.99
- Double Gunner – 50 Clay Shoot from £74.99
- Double Gunner – 60 Clay Shoot from £77.99
Amenities/Facilities: Clubhouse, parking
Minimum Age Requirement: 12 years old
Minimum Group Size: 2 persons
Clay pigeon shooting at The Big Shoot is a fantastic experience for the whole family. Children as young as 12 can participate, making it an inclusive and exciting activity for everyone.
With experienced instructors guiding you every step of the way, it’s just a matter of time before you get the hang of it.
The Big Shoot offers a variety of packages, ranging from 25 to 60 shots, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Keep in mind that they are often fully booked on Saturdays, so it’s wise to make a reservation in advance.
Pro Tip:
For companions who’d prefer to relax elsewhere, it’s worth noting that they have a cafe on-site to enjoy some refreshments.
Mad Max Adventures
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Website: https://www.madmaxadventures.com/
Address: MadMax Adventures, Whitemoss Farm, Kirknewton EH27 8DA
Contact Information: 0345 901 1424 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Spring: March – May; 3-4 weekends a month
- Summer: June – August; every weekend
- Autumn: September – November; 3-4 weekends a month
- Winter: December – February; 2 weekends a month
Admission Price: £60
Amenities/Facilities: Reception cabin, refreshments station, changing cabins, portable toilets, and picnic tables, parking
Minimum Age Requirement: 14 years old
Minimum Group Size: 3 persons
Just 25 minutes from the city center, Mad Max offers clay pigeon shooting in the scenic Scottish countryside. This activity center provides a unique opportunity for guests to spend an hour honing their marksmanship skills with guidance from veteran instructors.
Mad Max also takes an eco-friendly approach by using biodegradable clays, adding an extra layer of consideration to your experience.
Pro Tip:
If you’re part of a group of 20 or more participating in a multi-activity session, be sure to ask about the 10% discount that Mad Max offers. It’s a great way to save while enjoying a fun day out.
The Scottish Clay Shooting Centre
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Website: https://www.scottishclayshootingcentre.co.uk/
Address: The Scottish Clay Shooting Centre, Craigie Farm, Leuchars, Fife, KY16 0DT
Contact Information: 01334 839218 / [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 9:30am-6pm
- Wednesday and Sunday: Varies
- Other dates: By appointment
Admission Price:
- Introductory at £39.50 for 15 targets
- Standard at £59.50 for 25 targets
- Advanced at £65 with one-on-one lessons
Minimum Age Requirement: 12 years old
Minimum Group Size: N/A
One of the highlights of The Scottish Clay Shooting Centre is their tailored sessions designed to match your skill level. This ensures you receive the right guidance and make steady progress in your shooting abilities.
They also offer a variety of shooting scenarios to keep the experience engaging and challenging. But don’t worry—their instructors are patient and skilled at adapting to different learning styles, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident as you improve.
Pro Tip:
After working up an appetite, make sure to visit The Rhynd Café, just 400 meters from the center. They offer a delightful selection of freshly made home-cooked dishes, along with a variety of coffee and tea options—perfect for a post-activity treat.
Bisley at Braidwood
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Website: https://www.bisleyshooting.co.uk/clay-pigeon-shooting-by-edinburgh-2/
Address: Bisley at Braidwood, Braidwood, Midlem, Nr Selkirk, TD7 4QD, Scottish Borders
Contact Information: 01835 870280 / [email protected]
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9am-5pm
Admission Price:
- Instructor Lesson
- 50 Shot Lesson – Member: £60.50; Non-Member: £71
- 75 Shot Lesson – Member: £72.25; Non-Member: £85
- 100 Shot Lesson – Member: £80.75 ; Non-Member: £95
- Instruction only (pay for clays shot afterwards)
- Instructor: £45 per person
- Senior Instructor: £55 per person
- Group Shoots (5 or more)
- 50 Shot Group Lesson – £64 per person
- 75 Shot Group Lesson – £76 per person
- 100 Shot Group Lesson – £86 per person
Amenities/Facilities: Cafe, gun shop
Minimum Age Requirement: 10 years old
Minimum Group Size: N/A
Bisley at Braidwood is a stunning estate near the Scottish border, just 45 miles south of Edinburgh, renowned for its picturesque setting with views overlooking the Eildon Hills.
The instructors here are dedicated to understanding your skill level and adapting their teaching style to suit your needs. This ensures that you not only enjoy the experience but also make meaningful progress in your skills.
The setup is impressive, with a variety of stands that allow novices to practice shooting clays from different angles, adding both challenge and excitement to your session.
Pro Tip:
Brisley at Braidwood is known for hosting a variety of events, from Ladies Days to Monthly Club Shoots, so be sure to check their website often to stay up-to-date with their calendar.
Winton Castle
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Website: https://www.wintoncastle.co.uk/
Address: Winton Castle, Winton Estate, Pencaitland, East Lothian, EH34 5AT
Contact Information: 01875340222 / [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9am-5pm
Admission Price: Varies on group size
Amenities/Facilities: Garden, cottage, farmhouse, parking
Minimum Age Requirement: N/A
Minimum Group Size: 6 persons
Just 30 minutes outside of Edinburgh, Winton Castle offers a purpose-built shooting range in the private woods beside the castle. This allows shooters to adjust the difficulty and test their skills in a serene, secluded environment.
An added highlight is that your instruction will come from none other than Billy Gordon, Scotland’s 24-time clay shooting champion, twice Irish clay champion, and once British clay pigeon champion.
If not Billy, you’ll be guided by one of his team of expert instructors from East Lothian, ensuring top-tier coaching and a memorable experience.
Pro Tip:
There’s no on-site restaurant, but you can inquire about their catering options. They offer simple, rustic fare like bacon rolls, soup and sandwiches, or one-pot meals such as casseroles, chili, or lasagna.
