What is Boxing Day in the field?
25-Dec-2025
Mark Eves
Boxing Day in the Field is all about the classic UK tradition of heading out for driven pheasant shooting on December 26th.
It's a real standout moment in the game shooting season, where friends and family gather in those beautiful winter countryside spots to enjoy the sport. Here, "driven" shooting involves beaters and dogs working together to flush pheasants out of cover and send them flying toward a line of shooters, or "guns," who are stationed at designated pegs. This setup creates those heart-pounding, high-flying shots that really put your skills to the test.
The whole experience mixes excitement, good company, and a touch of holiday cheer, usually on private estates or through shooting syndicates.
Pheasants are the star of the show thanks to their numbers and those tricky flight paths that make every shot memorable. Plus, it's often a family affair, kids frequently tag along to watch or get involved under close supervision, picking up valuable lessons on rural customs and the idea of field-to-fork sustainability.
Background & traditions
This tradition has deep roots in old estate practices, where Boxing Day was about giving "boxes" of gifts to servants, and it's evolved into a beloved social event in rural parts of the UK, especially in pheasant hotspots like Yorkshire, the Midlands, and Scotland.
Driven pheasant shooting hits its stride in the middle of the season, from October 1 to February 1, and Boxing Day is particularly special because the cooler weather gets the birds flying. Many shoots get booked up well in advance for this date, turning it into a festive highlight. These days, there's a strong focus on sustainability, with modern shoots prioritising conservation efforts, managing released birds to benefit local wildlife, and following guidelines from groups like the BASC.
Tips for a successful day in the field
To make the most of your Boxing Day driven pheasant shoot, it's all about being prepared and flexible. Start by arriving early, check the start time with the host or keeper, as things often kick off at dawn, and you'll want to factor in any holiday traffic while drawing for peg positions to snag a good spot.
Be ready for the weather, which could bring rain, wind, or frost; pheasants perform best in crisp air, but soggy gear can spoil things, so pack extras. If kids get wet, swap them into dry layers right away to avoid chills, and encourage them to stay active rather than sitting around.
Safety comes first, so stick to the briefing, only take shots at high, clear birds, and keep communication open with the line to prevent any low-risk attempts. For children, that means constant adult oversight, fitting them with kid-sized ear and eye protection, and making sure they know to remain behind the peg line.
Teamwork is key too, collaborate with beaters and pickers-up to keep drives smooth, and note where birds fall to help with retrieval. Wrap up with post-shoot traditions like a hot drink or lunch. And don't forget those mid-morning breaks for elevenses, where you can enjoy homemade treats like sandwiches, cakes, or soup to maintain everyone's energy.
Etiquette essentials
Good etiquette is what keeps everyone respectful and ensures the day runs smoothly in driven pheasant shooting, fostering both safety and fun. Being on time with your gear sorted is crucial, as lateness can throw off the whole team's rhythm.
Follow safety rules to the letter: avoid swinging through the line, only load up at your peg, and always unload when on the move, while remembering to thank the beaters and keepers for their hard work.
Dress the part in tweed or subtle country wear, steer clear of bright colours that might startle the birds, and consider ties and hats for that blend of style and practicality.
At the end of the day, it's customary to tip the keeper discreetly, around £10-£20 per 100 birds, along with something for the beaters based on their efforts. If you're bringing gun dogs, make sure they're well-trained for reliable retrieves and show courtesy to other dogs on site.
Kit checklist: Essentials for the field
Getting your gear right is essential for handling the weather, the action, and all the rules that come with driven pheasant shooting.
For core shooting items, you'll want a shotgun, a 12-bore is popular—kept clean and in its case, along with a valid certificate. Stock up on cartridges, say 32g in No. 5-6 shot, aiming for at least 250 for a full day. Don't forget ear protection and shooting glasses, which are non-negotiable for safety, plus a gun slip, cleaning kit, and spare chokes to adapt as needed.
On the clothing side, go for a waterproof jacket, breeks or trousers, and sturdy boots with gaiters to tackle mud. Layer up with base items, a fleece, a tweed cap or hat, and gloves, and pack spares like socks, over trousers, and a vest or waistcoat for changing conditions.
Support gear includes a shooting stick for those peg waits, a game carrier, priest, and tally counter for managing birds, as well as water, snacks, including homemade elevenses like sandwiches, cakes, or hot soup in a thermos, a towel, and basic first-aid supplies. Throw in cash for tips and a whistle if you're helping out.
If you're not shooting or just observing, bring binoculars to follow the flights and action, a camera or notebook for capturing moments or noting wildlife, a warm blanket or portable seat for comfort during downtime, and extra snacks or hot drinks. High-visibility clothing can be a good idea too, if it's needed for field safety.
Typical participants
Boxing Day shoots attract a mix of people, from seasoned guns out for those impressive high pheasants to beginners joining syndicates for a gentle introduction. Beaters and pickers-up play a vital role in making the drives happen, and you'll often see groups blending the sport with holiday vibes, including non-shooters or family members who come along for the camaraderie and to soak up the educational side of things.
What is the law about borrowing a shotgun without a licence?
In the UK, the law on borrowing a shotgun without holding a shotgun certificate is governed by the Firearms Act 1968, with key exemptions allowing temporary, supervised use in specific scenarios. Generally, possessing a shotgun requires a valid Shotgun Certificate (SGC) from the police, but non-certificate holders can borrow one under limited conditions provided they're under direct supervision and on approved premises.
This doesn't allow for permanent possession, purchase, or unsupervised use, it's designed for short-term, controlled activities to avoid risks. These rules apply only to Section 2 shotguns (smooth-bore guns with barrels not exceeding 24 inches and no large-capacity magazines), and all parties must ensure compliance to prevent legal issues. The law doesn't cover rifles or other firearms in the same way, those often fall under stricter Section 1 rules requiring a Firearm Certificate.
You can borrow from a certificate holder aged 18 or over who has the right to shoot there or written permission from the landowner. The lender must be present, or you can be supervised by another certificate holder aged 18+. Borrowers can be any age, but those under 15 need oversight from someone 21 or older.
Borrowers must stick to the allowed purposes, stay within sight and hearing of the supervisor, and avoid being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. No age minimum overall, but supervision ramps up for kids. Always use safety gear, load only at the firing point, and respect public safety, no shooting near roads or where it could endanger others.
Requirements for lenders
For lenders, you need to be 18+, hold a valid SGC for the shotgun, and ensure all your certificate conditions are met. Get written permission if you're not the occupier, and always supervise or arrange proper oversight, verbal agreements don't cut it. You're liable for the gun's security and any misuse.
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