Rothiemurchus Clay Shooting, located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore, is widely regarded as one of the premier shooting facilities in the UK. Set within the historic Rothiemurchus Estate, managed by the Grant family for nearly 500 years, it offers a unique blend of professional sport and a traditional Highland atmosphere. The ground caters to all levels, from absolute beginners seeking their first "Silver Shoot Experience" to competitive athletes and hunters preparing for the season.
The facility is famous for its exceptional natural layout, utilizing the rugged terrain of ancient pine forests and heather moorland to simulate realistic game flight patterns. This organic integration into the landscape provides shooters with a technical complexity rarely found on flat, artificial grounds. Key Ground Features:
Disciplines: 14 English Sporting stands, including dedicated Sportrap and Compak layouts.
Target Presentations: Realistic simulations such as high pheasant (via towers), driven grouse, springing teal, and bolting rabbit.
Terrain: Natural valleys, hills, and forest clearings that offer diverse shooting angles and varying light conditions.
Equipped with state-of-the-art Promatic and Laporte trap machines, the ground ensures high reliability and precision. A modernized "Pay and Play" system utilizes RFID clay counter cards, allowing shotgun certificate holders to shoot independently. The ground also features a "Long-range target tag" system and self-timer release traps, enabling individual practice for solo shooters.
Instruction is led by Chief Instructor Jon Henderson, an SCTA-accredited professional with over 20 years of experience who has coached celebrities and professional athletes. The ground is also a regular venue for official Scottish Clay Target Association (SCTA) fixtures, including National Sporting (NSP) selection shoots. Training & Events:
Silver Shoot Experience: A bespoke package for beginners including all equipment, safety briefs, and 1-on-1 tuition.
Coaching Levels: From individual sessions to small groups (max 4 per instructor) focusing on gun fit and advanced technique.
Corporate Events: Large groups (up to 25) can be accommodated for team-building, complete with BBQ lunches and estate-reared meat.
Beyond the shooting stands, the facility is part of a broader leisure destination. Visitors are just 1.5 miles from the award-winning Rothiemurchus Farm Shop and The Barn Cafe, which serve the estate's famous Highland beef and venison. For those wishing to extend their stay, the estate offers a dedicated caravan park, camping areas, and luxury self-catering cottages.
Environmental stewardship is a priority, and the ground adheres to strict ecological rules to protect the National Park. Shooters must use fibre wads only, and steel shot is strictly prohibited to ensure the sustainability of the local woodland and wildlife.
Address: Rothiemurchus Shooting Ground, Inverdruie, Aviemore, PH22 1QH.
Opening Hours:
Summer (April 1 – Oct 31): Wed–Sun 09:00–17:00 (Mon–Tue Closed).
Winter (Nov 1 – March 31): Thu–Sun 09:00–16:00 (Mon–Wed Closed).
