Our Story

About Skelhorn Clays

A family-run clay ground on the edge of Wigan. All abilities welcome since 2012.

Our Story

Family-run since 2012

Skelhorn Clays has been a fixture on the Lancashire shooting circuit for over twelve years. Started as a passion project by the Skelhorn family, the ground has grown into one of the most welcoming and well-regarded clay venues in the North West — without ever losing that family feel.

We run monthly competition shoots for the seasoned shot and regular have-a-go sessions for complete beginners. The ground, the welcome, and the Full English before you shoot are all part of the deal.

12+
Years running
400
Clays monthly
All
Levels welcome
The Ground

Proper Lancashire Countryside

Set across rolling farmland on the outskirts of Wigan, our ground offers a varied and challenging shooting experience. Woodland edges, open fields, and natural terrain make for interesting target presentations that change with the seasons.

The layout is refreshed for every competition shoot, so regulars never get bored and every visit feels different. Whether you’re shooting driven birds through the trees or picking off crossers over the valley, you’ll find something to test every part of your game.

15+
Stands
Varied positions across woodland, open field, and hillside terrain.
Fresh
Monthly Layout
New target presentations for every competition shoot. No two months are the same.
All
Target Types
Driven, crossers, quartering, teal, rabbits — the full range of sporting targets.
Safe
Fully Insured
Full public liability insurance. CPSA affiliated ground with qualified safety officers.
The Team

The People Behind the Ground

A small, dedicated team who genuinely love the sport and want you to have a great time every visit.

John Skelhorn
Founder & Head Instructor
Started Skelhorn Clays in 2012. CPSA AA class shooter and APSI qualified instructor with over 20 years in the sport.
Sarah Skelhorn
Operations & Bookings
Manages all bookings, events, and the legendary breakfast. The reason everything runs like clockwork.
Mike Harrison
Senior Instructor
APSI qualified coach specialising in one-to-one tuition. Runs our Have-a-Go sessions and coaching days.
First Visit

What to Expect

1
Arrive & Register
Turn up from 8am on competition Sundays. Sign in, grab a coffee, and collect your card. First-timers will get a quick safety briefing.
2
Breakfast
A proper Full English is available before you shoot. It’s become as much a part of the day as the shooting itself.
3
Shoot
Head out to the stands at your own pace. Squads of 4–6 shooters rotate through the layout. Friendly atmosphere, no pressure.
4
Results & Prizes
Scores tallied and results announced same day. Class prizes, high gun trophy, and results published on Clay Ledger.