Ashcombe

The Ashcombe Estate is one of Devon's most exclusive driven shoots, offering an exceptional sporting experience in a landscape purposefully designed for driven game over a century ago. Originally laid out by the Earls of Lisburne in the late 1800s, the shoot makes full use of the estate's hilltop woodlands, rolling valleys, and commanding views to create challenging, memorable birds that have earned Ashcombe an outstanding reputation. Today, the estate remains privately owned and managed, hosting a limited number of private parties and syndicates each season. Under the guidance of Gamekeeper Adam Eaton, and with Oliver Bargery taking on management of the shoot from the 2026 season, Ashcombe continues to combine traditional sporting values with meticulous attention to detail and modern game management. With carefully controlled bag sizes, exceptional bird presentation, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Ashcombe offers a refined shooting experience where quality always takes precedence over quantity.

A day at Ashcombe begins with a warm welcome over breakfast, where guests gather before setting out across the estate for a carefully planned day of driven shooting. From the outset, the emphasis is on exceptional bird presentation, seamless organisation, and an enjoyable pace that allows every drive to be fully appreciated. The estate's varied terrain provides an outstanding mix of drives, with high pheasants soaring over open hillsides and valleys, alongside woodland drives that offer a contrasting sporting challenge. Several of the estate's signature drives are renowned for producing demanding birds that test even the most experienced Guns, making full use of the natural contours and elevation of the Haldon Ridge. A traditional elevenses break provides an opportunity to pause and enjoy refreshments before continuing with the morning's sport. Lunch is served on the estate, showcasing game from the shoot alongside seasonal local produce, reflecting Ashcombe's commitment to making full use of its harvest. The afternoon concludes with further thoughtfully selected drives before guests return to reflect on the day's shooting. Throughout every element of the experience, from the quality of the birds to the estate's renowned hospitality, Ashcombe delivers a traditional driven day that is as rewarding as it is memorable.

Situated on the prestigious Haldon Ridge to the east of Dartmoor National Park, Ashcombe occupies one of Devon's most spectacular sporting landscapes. Rising to over 900 feet above sea level, the estate enjoys far-reaching views across rolling countryside, ancient woodland, and the dramatic moorland beyond. The natural topography is defined by four deep valleys that cut through the estate, creating ideal conditions for high, sporting birds. Open grassland, mature woodland, and carefully managed coverts combine to produce a landscape that is both visually stunning and perfectly suited to traditional driven shooting. The surrounding area is renowned for its rich wildlife, peaceful countryside, and strong rural heritage. Despite its secluded setting, Ashcombe is easily accessible from Exeter and the South West, offering visitors an authentic Devon sporting experience within one of England's finest natural landscapes.