Purdey at The Royal Berkshire Shooting School (RBSS) is a premier shooting facility located in a 70-acre chalk valley in Berkshire, approximately an hour from London. Following its acquisition by the legendary gunmaker James Purdey & Sons, the school has undergone a significant "Royal Reopening" to integrate historical craftsmanship with cutting-edge sporting excellence. It serves as a comprehensive destination for both novice shooters looking for their first experience and seasoned marksmen refining their skills for the field.
The grounds are uniquely positioned in a natural downhill valley, providing a diverse topography of ridges and woods that allow for realistic bird simulations. With 48 shooting stands and over 150 traps, the facility offers a wide range of disciplines including English Sporting, FITASC, and Sportrap. Recent refurbishments have added new wooded stands and gravel pathways, ensuring a high-quality experience in all weather conditions.
Key Technical Facilities:
High Towers: Six towers, including some of the highest in the UK reaching up to 140 feet to simulate high-flying pheasants.
Grouse Butts: Three traditional layouts for specialized game practice.
Shooting Cinema: The only non-military indoor live-ammunition shooting cinema in the UK, supporting rifles up to $.500$ Nitro Express.
Shot Camera Technology: Real-time video analysis tools used during lessons to review and refine technique.
Instruction is provided by a world-class team of APSI-qualified coaches with over 125 years of combined experience. Lessons are highly personalized, using a "training record" system to track progress and tailor sessions to individual goals. The school emphasizes the elegant Stanbury Method, focusing on style, balance, and footwork to help clients "read" birds effectively in the field.
Events and Competitions:
Handicap Challenge: A flagship annual competition that runs after the game season ends.
Really Wild Clay Days: Highly realistic simulated game days hosted at prestigious estates like Highclere and Englefield.
Corporate & Charity Shoots: Bespoke event packages for groups of up to $100+$ guests, featuring elevated hospitality and "beat the pro" challenges.
Beyond the shooting stands, the facility features a newly built Lodge and the Lutyens Farmhouse, offering premium hospitality and retail services. The Country Store stocks a full range of Purdey clothing and accessories, while the Gun Room provides expert advice and professional gun fitting. These spaces are designed for relaxation, from fireside chats in the winter to dining on the terrace overlooking the valley in the summer.
