Few sounds are more quintessentially English than the distant resonance of a shotgun as a pheasant comes careering to the ground. Northumberland has a long tradition of hunting wildfowl and deer. In the heart of the British countryside, there are few better places to practice this time-honoured sport.
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Being England’s northern most county, Northumberland is ideally situated to the south of the Scottish Borders and has a bounty of the game and fowl associated with this rich countryside. Many shooting grounds operate throughout the area.
From 12th August to 10th December, it’s Red Grouse and Ptarmigan season. Black Grouse season runs a little shorter beginning of the 20th August and finishing on the same date. Although Black Grouse are no longer a popular quarry, since a steady decline in their numbers has made them scarce and ecologically controversial.
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For both the Grey and Red-Legged Partridge, there is a longer five month season from the 1st September to the 1st of February. Pheasant season runs from the 1st October to the 1st February. These game birds are the most popular, but others are also to be found. It’s always a good idea to know what you’re shooting as many birds in this ornithologically rife area are protected.
For anyone preferring a more precise activity, Northern Northumberland is perfectly situated between the coast and the Cheviot Hills for a satisfying Deer Stalking holiday. The area is known for its Red Deer and Roe Deer. Little can compare to fresh venison on a hunter’s fire.
For those who would rather refrain from proper hunting, or those who would just like to keep there eye in, many grounds offer Clay Pigeon Shooting as well as training for novices. Recently, Clay Pigeon Shooting has become a popular corporate activity.
As long as the Deer and Game Acts are properly observed and safety is your primary consideration, then a hunting trip to the North of England can be one of life’s great pleasures.
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