Ashcombe Shooting Ground is a premier clay pigeon shooting destination located within the picturesque Ashcombe Estate near Dawlish, Devon. Established in the 1980s and currently managed by the Sportsman Gun Centre, the facility has evolved into one of the South West's few permanent, professional year-round shooting hubs. It is highly regarded for its dramatic natural topography, utilizing the rolling hills of the Haldon Ridge to present challenging targets across four valleys, with some stands even offering views of the nearby coastline.
The technical infrastructure of the ground is among the most advanced in the region, featuring over 100 automatic clay traps primarily from the Promatic and Laporte brands. These traps are distributed across more than 25 sporting stands, providing a vast variety of target presentations including English Sporting, Skeet ranges, and specialized setups for simulated game. A standout feature is the 100-foot-plus High Tower, which is used to simulate high-driven pheasants and partridges for game shooters.
Automation and ease of use are central to the Ashcombe experience, highlighted by the implementation of the Promatic Claymate system. This "pay-and-play" technology allows license holders to move freely between stands using a contactless card that tracks clay usage automatically. The ground also hosts several prestigious competitions and registered events, including:
CPSA Registered English Sporting (ESP) and English Skeet (ESK) fixtures.
Major annual events such as the ATA Cup and the Browning Sporting Masters.
The BASC Countryside Challenge and specialized Game Shooter Certificate courses.
Instruction is a cornerstone of the facility, led by a team of elite coaches including Head Coach Don Brunt, an international Masterclass shooter, and Paul Williams, a three-time Devon County Champion. Lessons are available for all levels, from first-time novices to seasoned pros looking for an advanced gun-fitting assessment or technique refinement. Beyond the shooting lines, the estate serves as a comprehensive multi-activity centre, offering:
Quad Bike Safaris and Archery.
Paintball in a wooded ravine and fishing across two stocked lakes.
A clubhouse with a licensed bar and a café serving home-cooked meals.
On-site holiday cottages capable of accommodating groups from 6 to 28 guests.
Pricing at Ashcombe is structured to accommodate both casual visitors and regular members. While standard practice prices are based on a pay-as-you-go model, membership offers significant savings and exclusive benefits. Key service pricing includes:
Shooting Experiences (25 Clays): From £45 per person, including all equipment and instruction.
Shooting Experiences (50 Clays): From £75 per person.
Annual Membership: £79 per year, which includes a 3p discount per clay and 100 complimentary birthday/summer targets.
Corporate Packages: Basic options starting from £40 per head.
