Clay Pigeon Shooting Near York
Straight Shooters Ltd
If you’re based in York or staying in the city for a short break and fancy trying something a little different, clay pigeon shooting near York is easier to find than you might think. Straight Shooters is a family-run, all-weather clay pigeon shooting ground located at Rainton, near Thirsk – just 25 miles from York city centre and less than 30 minutes by car.
Whether you’re a complete beginner picking up a shotgun for the very first time or an experienced shot looking for a new ground to shoot at, Straight Shooters offers a relaxed, friendly experience with CPSA qualified instructors and everything included.
How Far is our Clay Pigeon Shooting Ground from York?
Straight Shooters is located at The Old Services, Rainton, Thirsk, (near/opposite) YO7 3PZ – approximately 25 miles north-west of York city centre. The journey takes around 25 to 30 minutes via the A19, making it one of the most accessible clay pigeon shooting grounds for visitors from York, Selby, Pocklington and the surrounding East Yorkshire area.
Ample free parking is available on site.
What’s Included in a Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience Near York?
At Straight Shooters, everything you need is provided. There’s no requirement to bring your own equipment, hold a shotgun licence or have any previous experience. A typical beginner session includes:
- Full safety briefing from a CPSA qualified instructor
- Gun hire and gun fitting
- Eye dominance check
- Cartridges and clay targets
- Tea or coffee
- Use of the all-weather covered facility
Sessions are available for individuals, couples, families and corporate groups.

Clay Pigeon Shooting Options Available
Taster Session – £30 (approx. 30 minutes)
15 targets. Perfect for first-timers who want to try the sport without committing to a full lesson.
Standard Lesson – £75 (approx. 45 minutes)
25 targets. A proper introduction to clay shooting with time to develop your technique.
Standard Lesson – £100 (approx. 1 hour)
50 targets. The most popular option for those who want a full shooting experience.
Experienced Shooters
If you already hold a shotgun licence and have your own gun, clay-only packages are also available from £25 for 50 clays.
Shooting Gift Vouchers
Clay pigeon shooting gift vouchers are available and make a brilliant present for birthdays, Father’s Day or Christmas. Vouchers are posted to the address you provide.
Why Choose an All-Weather Shooting Ground Near York?
Unlike many outdoor shooting grounds across Yorkshire, Straight Shooters operates from a covered, all-weather facility with a log burning stove. That means your session goes ahead whatever the weather – no cancellations, no soggy afternoons and no disappointment.
For visitors travelling from York, this is particularly valuable. You can book with confidence knowing that an unpredictable Yorkshire forecast won’t spoil your plans.
Is Clay Pigeon Shooting Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, absolutely. The vast majority of visitors to Straight Shooters arrive with no previous shooting experience at all. The qualified instructors are used to working with first-timers and take a patient, encouraging approach from start to finish. No shotgun licence is required for a supervised lesson at a registered shooting ground.
The minimum age for participation is 12 years old, making it a great activity for older children and teenagers as well as adults.
Corporate Clay Pigeon Shooting Near York
Looking for a corporate activity day or team building event within easy reach of York? Straight Shooters welcomes group bookings and can accommodate corporate shooting days in a relaxed, informal setting. The all-weather facility means your event goes ahead regardless of the forecast, making it ideal for team days where you need to guarantee the experience.
To discuss a corporate booking, contact us directly on 07732 775 5428 or email contact@straightshooters.org.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a shotgun licence to go clay pigeon shooting near York?
No. When shooting under the supervision of a qualified instructor at a registered ground, no shotgun licence is required. Straight Shooters provides all equipment including the gun.
How old do you need to be to try clay pigeon shooting?
Participants must be at least 12 years old. There is no upper age limit.
How far is Straight Shooters from York?
Straight Shooters is located at Rainton, near Thirsk, approximately 25 miles from York city centre. The drive takes around 25 to 30 minutes via the A19.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. All sessions must be pre-booked either online or by calling 07732 775 428. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
What should I wear for clay pigeon shooting?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear. All safety equipment including ear and eye protection is provided on site.
How to Book Clay Pigeon Shooting Near York
All sessions at Straight Shooters must be pre-booked. You can book online via this website or by calling the team on 07732 775 428. Once your deposit is paid, simply get in touch to arrange your preferred date and time.
Straight Shooters Ltd
The Old Services, Rainton, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, (near/opposite) YO7 3PZ
Tel: 07732 775 428
Email: contact@straightshooters.org.uk