Could there be a better way to spend a day than this? Birdsall House recently hosted a simulated clay shooting day in partnership with Musgrave Sporting, one of the region’s exciting new names in the simulated game shooting scene.
As the early morning mist lifted, blue skies emerged and Birdsall House was bathed in glorious sunshine, setting the scene for a fantastic day of simulated game shooting across the vast estate. Guests were welcomed to experience the sport against the stunning backdrop of the Birdsall estate.
By 8.45am everyone had gathered and were busy enjoying tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches in the Dining Room of the magnificent Birdsall House. It was a chance to meet the rest of the party and take in the incredible interiors of the house before heading outdoors, onto the veranda where guests were briefed and pegs were drawn.
From there, guests headed out across the spectacular estate, arriving at the first drive as the Musgrave team were ready and waiting to unleash a vast array of simulated clays. Designed to recreate the speed, height and unpredictability of a live game day, the drives took full advantage of Birdsall’s varied ground, from the shelter of the woodland to the deep valleys. The estate gives every gun a true sporting test, and as the morning went on, the sporting challenges and opportunities the estate presents were clear to see.
The remainder of the day continued in much the same spirit. Under glorious sunshine, further drives around the estate tested eyes and reflexes as the Musgrave team kept the clays coming thick and fast, each drive offering a fresh challenge.
The remainder of the day continued in much the same spirit. Under glorious sunshine, further drives around the estate tested eyes and reflexes as the Musgrave team kept the clays coming thick and fast, each drive offering a fresh challenge.
“The exceptional topography here at Birdsall offers a proper test for a simulated day and allows us to offer huge variety for experienced shots as well as being able to cater for guests new to clay pigeon shooting and provide an excellent experience for everyone. Days like this are exactly why we do what we do.”
— Kyran, Director of Musgrave Sporting
No shoot day at Birdsall would be complete without elevenses, and this one did not disappoint. Coe Catering laid on smoked salmon and steak tartare with homemade crisps alongside trays of delicious sausage rolls that vanished within minutes. Bitesize Bakewell tarts, as well as the classic Yorkshire pairing of fruitcake and cheese, ensured everyone was sustained for the challenge of the drives ahead. Lady Cara herself was on hand with a shot of Gattertop damson vodka, followed by a round of non-alcoholic cocktails for anyone pacing themselves before the afternoon’s drives began.
As the last drive wrapped up, the guns made their way back to Birdsall House for a well-earned round of post-shooting tipples, followed by a colourful two-course lunch from Coe Catering. A glass or two of good wine accompanied the inevitable post-shooting debrief, where the highlights of the day were shared and relived. As guests lingered over coffee, reflections on the day drew to a close, and in the late afternoon light guests said their goodbyes and made their way home, some by car and others via helicopter.
In conclusion, there are few other ways to spend a day that bring action, excitement and an extraordinary setting all together in one unique experience.
