Darley Dale Clay Pigeon Shooting Club (DDCPSC) is a premier shooting venue with a rich history dating back to the 1970s. Currently located at the historic Bees Nest Mine near Brassington, Derbyshire, the club is nestled on the edge of the scenic Peak District. It offers a professional yet welcoming environment for everyone from complete novices to seasoned "pro" shooters looking for a challenging experience in a picturesque setting.
The site is uniquely suited for Sporting Clays due to its diverse topography as a former mine. This natural landscape allows traps to be positioned both high above and deep below the shooter, providing an extensive range of classic flight paths such as driven, teal, rabbits, and crossers. The targets are changed for every shoot, ensuring that every visit provides a fresh and exciting challenge for regular visitors.
Technical efficiency is a hallmark of the ground, which features 11 stands hosting 75-bird courses. All traps are fully automatic and operated via remote control or cable-and-button systems, ensuring high reliability and a smooth workflow. To prevent queuing and maintain a steady pace, the club utilizes an organized booking system where groups of up to six shooters are allotted 10-minute slots per stand.
The club is highly accessible to those new to the sport, offering gift vouchers specifically designed for first-time shooters. These "Try Out" sessions include everything required for a safe start, including gun hire, cartridges, and basic instruction. Experienced shooters also benefit from the friendly atmosphere where staff and long-term members are known for providing helpful advice and a warm welcome to new faces.
Competitive shooting is a core part of the club's identity, managed through its own internal classification scheme. Shooters are categorized into different sections including Classes AA, A, B, and C, alongside dedicated prizes for Ladies and Juniors. While the club does not hold CPSA-registered events, it remains affiliated with the CPSA and maintains strict safety standards overseen by a qualified safety officer.
Environmental responsibility is taken seriously, highlighted by a mandatory "Fibre Wad Only" cartridge policy. The use of plastic wads is strictly prohibited to protect the local landscape and livestock. On-site amenities further enhance the visitor experience, featuring catering facilities that serve hot food and drinks, as well as the convenience of modern card payment options.
Key Club Features:
Disciplines: Specializes in English Sporting (75-bird courses) and Sportrap (25-bird layouts).
Equipment: High-quality automatic traps with wireless remote releases and well-maintained stands.
Infrastructure: On-site catering providing hot food, tea, and coffee; large parking area.
Environmental Policy: Strictly Fibre Wad Only to preserve the Derbyshire Dales ecosystem.
Service Pricing:
75-Bird Shoot (Members): £23
75-Bird Shoot (Non-Members): £27
75-Bird Shoot (Juniors under 16): £14
25-Bird Sportrap: £10
Cartridges: Available for purchase at competitive prices (Shotgun Certificate required).
Opening Hours: Open every second and fourth Sunday of each month. Typical hours: 09:00 AM – 01:30 PM.
