Bolton Gun Club, established in 1966, is a prestigious private members' organization located at Turf Nest Farm in the scenic West Pennine Moors of Lancashire. Operating as a not-for-profit Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC), it focuses on providing modern shooting facilities for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers. The club’s standout "feature" is its authentic rural setting on a working farm, which offers a unique and relaxing backdrop for the sport while maintaining a high-level competitive environment.
What is on the Stand
Disciplines: Regular setups for Down The Line (DTL), English Skeet, and a 50-bird English Sporting course, with occasional Compak and 2/4-man Flush layouts.
Equipment: Automatic traps providing a variety of target presentations to simulate diverse field conditions.
Infrastructure: 11 firing points, social cabins for rest and registration, and covered stands to ensure shooting continues during inclement weather.
Logistics: Dedicated off-road parking on the farm premises.
Terrain: The rural landscape of the West Pennine Moors provides challenging natural backgrounds and varying elevations for Sporting targets.
Training and Coaching The club is deeply committed to the future of the sport, offering free tuition and the use of club equipment for absolute beginners. Under this policy, novices only pay for the actual targets and ammunition used, removing financial barriers for first-time shooters. Coaching is delivered by qualified Training Officers and senior coaches, such as Mike Hartley, who holds CPSA Level 2 qualifications in DTL, Skeet, and Sporting disciplines.
Who It Fits
Novices: Ideal for those seeking a supportive, expert-led introduction to shooting without upfront coaching fees.
Competitive Athletes: Suited for experienced "clay busters" looking to compete in internal leagues or registered CPSA events.
Families: Highly inclusive environment where men, women, and juniors can compete on an equal footing.
License Candidates: Probationary members can access a comprehensive training program designed to help them obtain their first Firearms License.
Key Advantages
Authentic Terrain: Varied targets set against the scenic backdrop of the Lancashire countryside.
Cost-Efficiency: Not-for-profit status ensures some of the most competitive pricing for targets and membership in the North West.
Safety Record: An enviable reputation for safety, with all sessions strictly overseen by qualified Range Officers.
Community Spirit: A friendly, welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes the sharing of knowledge over commercial profit.
Services and Pricing
Visitor Session Fee: Approximately £7.50–£8.00
Member Session Fee: Approximately £4.00.
Tuition & Gun Hire: Provided free of charge for beginners.
Ammo & Targets: Competitive rates (pay-as-you-play for novices).
