Sunny Days and Breaking Clays Series: ‘The Glorious Twelfth’

Countdown to Grouse

A gentle buzz moves across the moors in August: the sun rising and casting a glow over the layers of tweed, the rustle of boots amongst the heather, the air of excitement, the anticipation palpable - and it’s not without reason.

For shooting enthusiasts, August 12th marks more than just a date in the diary; it brings with it the first major highlight in the British shooting calendar- a day coined as 'The Glorious Twelfth’. Steeped in tradition, sport, and the careful balance of nature, the Glorious Twelfth is a day that has been etched onto country sports agendas for centuries.

In this edition of the Summer Shooting Series, we’re diving into what makes this day so iconic: from its rich history and time-honoured glory, right down to how to prepare for a day on the hill. From how to get ready in true serious country style to proper field etiquette, whether you’re gearing up for your first shoot or your fiftieth season, consider this your companion to kicking off the game season.

Rich History Meets Modern Conservation

With roots stretching back nearly two centuries, it’s clear to see why the day carries with it more than the sound of the shot. Introduced by the Game Act of 1831, the day harbours generations of historical significance, with each year marking a time-honoured event that is as much about connection as it is about sport.

So, why grouse? Simply put, it’s because Britain is the only country with a native population of wild red grouse. Thriving in the heather-rich moorland, they make for a unique and elusive quarry, sort after for their fast flight and challenging trajectories. 
But, despite its rich history, in recent years, the Glorious Twelfth has been subject to scrutiny regarding the sustainability of game bird shooting. Behind the sport lies a bigger picture: managed moorlands that support biodiversity, rural employment, conservation, and tourism, with gamekeepers and estates playing a vital role in sustaining these delicate ecosystems.

Today, shooting is moving tradition forward, underpinned by an environmental awareness and efforts made to ensure the day is as controlled, ethical, and respectful as possible. Many estates have adopted measures to enhance habitat management and biodiversity, with the aim to strike a balance between traditional shooting practices and wildlife conservation, with sustainability now at its core as much as tradition.

Behind the Shot: Gearing up for the Grouse

Behind every successful shot on the Twelfth lies careful preparation, planning and attention to detail.

Long before the first beaters head out, gamekeepers are hard at work managing heather, maintaining predator control, cutting walkways, and carefully planning beat lines. Their dedication ensures both a safe and sustainable season and the health of the moor itself.

For the guns, the groundwork is just as crucial. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a first-time novice, practice and preparation over the summer can make all the difference. Many spend the off-season refining their technique through clay shooting or simulated game days (as covered in Sunny Days and Breaking Clays: A Gameday Simulation). Others are training young dogs to work the line, brushing up on safety and etiquette with coaches, or simply keeping their foot on the peg at their local shooting syndicate.

Field Tested, Moor Approved: What to Wear

We all recognise the iconic image associated with the game season: flat caps, high socks, and a sea of greens, browns, and burgundies. Dressing respectfully and traditionally on the field is part of the occasion (and the etiquette), so it’s worth investing in the right gear, not just for the Twelfth but to see you through the upcoming shooting season- and it’s worth its weight in tweed!

Traditional Tweeds

With that said, tweed is always at the top of the list. Originally woven for the British countryside, not only does it provide practicality in protection and camouflage, but also carries with it a sense of timeless country style and identity.

Today’s versions blend traditions with innovation, incorporating modern styles, technical linings, and hidden pockets without compromising authenticity. Matching sets, such as the Hoggs of Fife Kinloch range, offer a put-together look, including a waistcoat, jacket, breeks, and even a flat cap, for a full head-to-toe game-day ensemble.

Layers for the Landscape

A classic shirt is the backbone of any country sports wardrobe. Pair a trusty Tattersall with just a gilet for a warmer start, and layer up with an Ashcombe Lambswool Zip Knit Pullover and shooting jacket for when the cold weather starts creeping in (the weather on the moor can be unpredictable- even in August!)

Breeks are just as important. Go tweed or moleskin, and for protection on those particularly wet days in the field, consider a waterproof option like the Hoggs of Fife Struther Breeks.

Boots & Socks

If there’s one thing you want to avoid, it's sore feet on shoot day. A sturdy leather boot like the Hoggs of Fife Waterproof Field Boot should be sure to keep you comfortable and shooting sharp all day long.

And of course, the socks are just as important- make sure to pair your boots with trusty shooting Socks or Turnover Top Stockings. Add some quick-fit Garters, and you’ve got head-to-toe heritage that’s both traditional and comfortable.

Accessories

Got your Garters? Finally, accessories. Store your cartridges without sacrificing style in a leather or canvas cartridge bag. If you’re going all out, match a wax, moleskin or tweed flat cap, and add a silk tie to really finish the game day look- and of course, don’t forget ear protection!

Tips for the Twelfth: Etiquette and Expectations

While the thrill of the sport is undeniable, so too is the upholding of etiquette that goes beyond the dress code. Knowing your mark, respecting the land and honouring traditions are just as vital as any preparation, and here we have some top tips to consider on the big day:

• Arrive on time: It may sound obvious, but arriving on time and being properly briefed is a large part of showing respect for your hosts, fellow guns, and the estate team who’ve worked hard preparing the moor.
  
• Communicate: Once in the field, safety is paramount. Communicate clearly and always know the position of your neighbouring guns, beaters, and dogs.
• Gun etiquette: Keep muzzles pointed safely, unload between drives and be mindful not to shoot low birds or swing dangerously out of your allocated area.
• Good field manner: Thanking your host, pickers-up, and beaters, keeping mobile devices tucked away, and avoiding boastfulness, are all considered good field manners (no matter how strong your day!)
• Respect: This extends beyond people, too. The birds should be handled with care, and the laying out at the end of the day is a moment of quiet tradition, not show.

Ultimately, the best guns are not just sharp shooters, but those who uphold the values of the countryside, the sport and their fellow companions, because behind the shot, there’s much more than a trigger pull. 

The Season Starts Here

As the guns align for the Glorious Twelfth, the true magic lies not only in the thrill of the shot, but in the heritage, respect and the shared values that bring generations together in the name, and tradition, of country sports.

Whether you're heading out for your first drive or a long-awaited return to familiar ground, our country sports collection has everything you need to step into the season feeling confident, and dressed to match.

And make sure to stay tuned for our final edition in the Sunny Days and Breaking Clays series next month, where we will be turning the focus to country sports for man’s best friend- the loyal gundog. 

 

About The Author 

Matthew Holland

Matt Holland is passionate about sharing tips on enjoying the British countryside. From field sports to woodland walks, Matt is a proud enthusiast of all country pursuits, with a keen interest in country sports and the heritage, traditions, and tales they offer. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matt combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons while embracing the thrill of country sports and the beauty of country life.