Codicote Bottom Clay Target Club (CBCTC) is a premier private, not-for-profit shooting venue located in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside near Codicote village. Managed by a dedicated team of volunteers, the club provides a relaxed and informal atmosphere that welcomes both seasoned clay shooters and complete novices. Its non-commercial nature allows it to offer some of the most competitive pricing in the region while maintaining professional standards of safety and variety.
The club is uniquely defined by its natural topography, situated in a valley known as a "bottom," which provides a diverse range of target heights and trajectories. To maximize this landscape, the facility features two permanent high towers, two grouse butts, and several raised platforms. These structures allow the club to simulate complex game bird flights, offering a vertical dimension to shooting that is often missing from flatter grounds.
Shooters at CBCTC can participate in several core disciplines, including English Sporting, Down the Line (DTL), Automatic Ball Trap (ABT), and Compak Sporting. A key highlight of the club is its dynamic approach to layouts; the volunteer staff creates a completely new shooting configuration for every session, ensuring that no two visits are identical. All stands are equipped with safety cages, and the presence of four qualified safety officers ensures a secure environment for every participant.
Accessibility is a major advantage of this club, as it holds a Section 11(6) Exemption under the Firearms Act. This legal status enables individuals without a shotgun certificate to experience the sport under expert supervision, making it an ideal entry point for beginners. Professional tuition is available by appointment with experienced instructors Stuart White and Av Andrea, who cater to all skill levels from first-timers to competitive athletes.
The club also serves as a versatile venue for corporate hospitality and community engagement, offering tailored packages for companies wishing to treat staff or clients to a day of outdoor sport. CBCTC is deeply involved in local philanthropy, hosting annual charity shoots that have historically raised significant funds for organizations like Help for Heroes and Herts Young Homeless. These events often include additional amenities such as on-site catering and social gatherings.
Environmental and operational policies are strictly maintained to ensure the sustainability of the club and its surrounding farmland. All shooters are required to use "fibre wad only" cartridges to prevent plastic pollution on the farm grounds. Furthermore, the club operates on a traditional cash-only basis for all services, including targets and ammunition. While the setting is rural and informal, basic facilities such as toilets and hot or cold refreshments are readily available.
Key Highlights
Facilities & Disciplines:
Disciplines: English Sporting, DTL, ABT, and Compak Sporting.
Infrastructure: Two high towers, two grouse butts, and raised platforms.
Safety: Mandatory shooting cages on all stands and four safety officers on site.
Variety: Targets and layouts are changed every two weeks for a fresh experience.
Target Audience:
Novices: Able to shoot without a license under Section 11(6) supervision.
Athletes: Challenging terrain and diverse target presentations for skill honing.
Corporate: Group bookings and hospitality options available.
Families: Inclusive environment suitable for a rewarding shared outdoor activity.
Operational Rules:
Cartridges: Strictly fibre wad only; no plastic wads allowed.
Payment: Cash only for all transactions on the ground.
Refreshments: Basic hot and cold drinks provided on site.
