Quick answer: in England, Wales and Scotland, grouse opens on 12 August, partridge on 1 September and pheasant on 1 October. Pheasant and partridge close on 1 February and grouse on 10 December. Always check current rules with BASC or your local authority before you shoot.
UK game shooting season dates
| Species | Open season (England, Wales & Scotland) |
|---|---|
| Red grouse | 12 August to 10 December |
| Black grouse and ptarmigan | 12 August to 10 December |
| Common snipe | 12 August to 31 January |
| Grey and red-legged partridge | 1 September to 1 February |
| Pheasant | 1 October to 1 February |
| Woodcock | 1 October to 31 January (Scotland from 1 September) |
| Duck and geese (inland) | 1 September to 31 January |
| Duck and geese (below high water mark) | 1 September to 20 February |
| Golden plover | 1 September to 31 January |
Northern Ireland has slightly different dates. Seasons can change and some species have local restrictions, so confirm before you go. Dates are based on the Countryside Alliance game seasons page.
Sundays, Christmas Day and shooting hours
In England and Wales, game may not be shot on Sundays or Christmas Day. In Scotland the restriction applies to wildfowl. Shooting is not allowed between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.
When does pheasant shooting start?
The pheasant season opens on 1 October and runs to 1 February. Many shoots start in late October, with most driven days in November, December and January. See our pheasant shooting season guide for more detail.
Grouse and partridge
The season starts with grouse on 12 August, often called the Glorious Twelfth, then partridge from 1 September. Early-season days are warmer, so wear lighter layers and carry a packable waterproof.
What to wear through the season
- Early season (Aug to Sept): lightweight shooting shirts, breathable trousers and a waterproof for showers.
- Mid season (Oct to Nov): a shooting gilet or fleece, breeks or plus fours and shooting boots.
- Late season (Dec to Jan): a warm padded or wax jacket, neoprene-lined wellies, gloves and a warm hat.
Browse shooting and country clothing, and read our guides on what to wear shooting, deer stalking clothing, waterproof trousers and waxed jackets. Protect your eyes with shooting glasses.
Shooting season FAQs
When is the UK pheasant season?
1 October to 1 February in England, Wales and Scotland.
When does grouse shooting start?
12 August, and it runs to 10 December.
When is the partridge season?
1 September to 1 February.
Can you shoot on Sundays in the UK?
Not for game in England and Wales. Rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check locally.
More advice in The Field Guide.
