Southern Counties Shooting

Shooting sports aren't everyone's cup of tea, but Southern Counties Shooting near Dorchester takes the whole thing seriously. You've got clay pigeon shooting, rifle ranges, and instruction for absolute beginners right through to competitive marksmen. It's the kind of place where you'll spend a morning or afternoon, not a full day, though if you're genuinely keen you could easily make an afternoon of it.

First thing - ring ahead. Opening hours and what's actually available on the day varies, and you'll need to book for most activities. Expect to pay, and quite a bit if you want proper tuition. But the instructors know their stuff, they'll sort you out with safety kit, and even if your first shots are nowhere near the target, there's something oddly satisfying about the whole experience.

Who gets the most from it? Honestly, people who already have some interest in shooting or who fancy trying something different on holiday. Not really a family thing unless your kids are teenagers keen to give it a go under proper supervision. The actual shooting itself is brilliant, but the standing around waiting for your turn between rounds can test patience.

If you're based at Green Valley Yurts and Cabin just down the road, this makes a solid half-day activity to break up a holiday. Dorchester itself has plenty to occupy you otherwise - Roman ruins, the town itself is proper interesting. But come here specifically? Only if shooting appeals to you.