Barbury Shooting School is a premier, open-air clay shooting facility located on the picturesque Marlborough Downs, just minutes from junction 15 of the M4 near Swindon. Holding the prestigious CPSA Premier Plus status and awarded "CPSA Ground of the Year 2023", the venue offers exceptional experiences for everyone from complete beginners to elite athletes. The ground's unique selling point is its brilliant use of the natural chalk downland topography combined with high towers, perfectly simulating the challenging flights of high-driven game birds under the expert guidance of champion shooter and director Huw Stephens.
The venue boasts an intensely competitive and varied calendar, making it a prominent hub for British clay shooting. It regularly hosts monthly 100 Bird Registered Sporting tournaments, alongside Sportrap, Super Sporting, and bi-monthly FITASC events. Because of its elite target presentations and challenging wind conditions, Barbury is frequently chosen for Great Britain Selection Shoots and Major Championships, pushing top-class shooters like Olympic champion Richard Faulds to their absolute limits.
Barbury's infrastructure is perfectly equipped to handle large-scale competitions and premium corporate hospitality. The ground features over 15 dedicated sporting stands and specialized Simulated Game Areas. A major highlight is the Barbury Gunroom, a premium retail space offering a unique "Try before you buy" service for top-tier shotgun brands like Beretta, Blaser, and Perazzi. Visitors can relax at the on-site café or corporate event room, and those requiring accommodation can utilize partnered luxury local hotels like The Frogmill and The King's Arms.
Instruction at the school caters to all skill levels with a wide array of flexible coaching packages, from individual one-hour lessons to comprehensive six-session courses. Complete novices are provided with safe, expert tuition and all necessary equipment, while seasoned professionals can refine their techniques on extreme targets. The school is also highly praised for its inclusive initiatives, such as the "Barbury Belles" ladies-only social events and dedicated junior rates, ensuring a welcoming environment for the next generation of shooters.
Key Advantages & Features
Unique Terrain: Utilizes the natural Marlborough Downs valleys and high towers for incredibly realistic and challenging target presentations.
Test & Buy Service: Allows clients to field-test premium shotguns directly from the on-site Gunroom onto the sporting stands.
Simulated Game Days: Offers thrilling corporate and team-building events featuring intense target flushes and premium hospitality.
Inclusive Community: Hosts specific events like the Barbury Belles and Air Rifle Demo Days, making shooting accessible to everyone.
Strategic Location: Easy access from the M4 with strong ties to luxury Cotswold hospitality venues for visiting shooters.
