Have you ever imagined waking up in a centuries-old manor, surrounded by acres of pristine countryside, with the thrill of a private hunting ground just steps away? There’s something undeniably alluring about owning a luxury estate that combines timeless elegance with the raw excitement of outdoor pursuits. For those with a passion for nature and a taste for exclusivity, properties with dedicated shooting estates offer a unique lifestyle—one that blends heritage, adventure, and investment potential. I’ve always found the idea of owning such a property captivating, not just for the prestige but for the chance to create a legacy tied to the land.
Why Invest in a Hunting Estate?
Investing in a property with a shooting estate isn’t just about acquiring a home—it’s about embracing a way of life. These estates often come with vast acreage, historic homes, and exclusive rights to activities like pheasant shooting or deer stalking. Beyond the lifestyle appeal, they can also be savvy financial moves. According to property experts, rural estates with sporting rights tend to hold their value well, especially in regions like the UK or Tuscany, where demand for such properties remains strong.
But what makes these estates so special? For one, they offer a rare blend of privacy and community. You’re not just buying a house; you’re stepping into a world where you can host shooting parties, manage your land, or even generate income through tourism or leasing. Plus, the connection to nature is unmatched—there’s something grounding about walking your own acres, knowing the land’s history and its potential. Let’s dive into eight breathtaking properties that embody this dream.
1. Historic Manor in East Sussex
Nestled in the rolling hills of East Sussex, this 15th-century Grade II-listed manor is a history lover’s dream. With six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and four reception rooms, the main house exudes character with its beamed ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. The estate spans 249 acres, complete with an established family shoot and equestrian facilities. I can’t help but imagine cozy evenings by the fire after a day in the fields.
What sets this property apart is its versatility. Alongside the main house, you’ll find a one-bedroom annexe, two one-bedroom flats, and three cottages (one with two bedrooms, one with three). Whether you’re hosting guests or generating rental income, these additional dwellings offer flexibility. Priced at £5 million, it’s a chance to own a slice of England’s heritage.
Owning a historic estate feels like stepping into a storybook, where every corner holds a piece of the past.
– Property historian
2. Scottish Splendor in Ayrshire
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Scottish estate, this Ayrshire gem might steal your heart. Located in a designated Dark Sky area, it’s perfect for stargazing after a day of shooting or fishing. The estate boasts 590 acres of woodland, 2.5 miles of fishing rights on the River Doon, and shooting privileges that make it a sportsman’s paradise. The main house offers seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a three-bedroom wing, plus additional houses, cottages, and a historic stable block.
Priced at £5 million or more, this estate is a haven for those who crave both adventure and tranquility. I find the idea of managing such a vast property exhilarating—it’s like running your own small kingdom. The blend of sporting rights and natural beauty makes this a standout choice.
3. Aberdeenshire’s Logie Estate
In the heart of Aberdeenshire, the Logie Estate spans 224 acres, bordered by the River Ythan and the Forvie National Nature Reserve. This period property, with five bedrooms and two reception rooms, is surrounded by gardens and outbuildings, including a three-bedroom cottage and a two-bedroom cottage. The terrain is ideal for driven shooting, and there’s even an equestrian center for horse enthusiasts.
Available for £2.8 million or in lots, this estate offers flexibility for buyers. The proximity to a national nature reserve adds an eco-conscious appeal, making it perfect for those who want to balance sport with conservation. Have you ever considered how a property like this could double as a retreat for both family and wildlife?
- Five-bedroom main house with historic charm
- 224 acres of prime shooting land
- Equestrian facilities for added versatility
4. Devon’s Fuidge Manor
Tucked away in a quiet corner of West Devon, Fuidge Manor is a Grade II-listed property in need of some TLC. With 10 bedrooms, six bathrooms, and seven reception rooms, it’s a renovation project with immense potential. The 257-acre estate includes woodland, farmland, and river frontage, offering deer stalking and the chance to develop a small shoot.
Priced at £3.75 million, this manor is perfect for someone with a vision. I’ve always thought there’s something romantic about restoring a historic home—breathing new life into its walls while preserving its soul. The estate’s seclusion makes it a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude.
5. Moores Farm in Bath
For those drawn to the charm of Bath, Moores Farm offers a 197-acre estate with a period farmhouse, mature gardens, and fishing lakes. The property includes an established pheasant and duck shoot, making it a favorite for sporting enthusiasts. With four bedrooms in the main house and a four-bedroom shoot lodge, it’s ideal for hosting guests or events.
At £5 million, this estate combines rural beauty with accessibility to a vibrant city. The idea of sipping coffee by a fishing lake, surrounded by your own land, feels like the ultimate luxury. It’s a property that invites both relaxation and adventure.
6. Tuscan Hunting Paradise
Imagine owning a 19th-century villa in the rolling hills of Tuscany, surrounded by 2,471 acres of farmland, olive groves, and woodland. This estate, established as a hunting reserve in 1950, offers wild boar, mouflon, deer, hare, and pheasant shooting. The main villa boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and an indoor swimming pool, with 12 additional buildings providing 30 bedrooms in total.
Priced at €20 million, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Italian history. I can’t help but picture hosting lavish hunting parties under the Tuscan sun, with guests marveling at the estate’s grandeur. It’s the kind of place that feels like a dream—yet it’s very real.
A Tuscan estate is more than a home; it’s a lifestyle that blends culture, nature, and adventure.
– International property expert
7. Wiltshire’s Modern Classic
In Wiltshire, Mount Farm is a modern country house built in a classical style, surrounded by 170 acres of parkland and woodland. With eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a one-bedroom annexe, it’s designed for comfort and elegance. The woodland provides an excellent family shoot, and the open fireplaces and Aga-equipped kitchen add a cozy touch.
At £8.75 million, this estate is a blend of modern convenience and timeless beauty. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle. I find the idea of French doors opening onto a terrace particularly inviting—perfect for summer evenings.
8. Bapton Manor Estate in Warminster
The Bapton Manor Estate is a showstopper, spanning 1,796 acres with a 17th-century manor at its heart. The eight-bedroom home, in need of some updating, is surrounded by farmland, pasture, and 153 acres of woodland, offering potential for a partridge and pheasant shoot. Fishing rights on the River Wylye add to the appeal.
Priced at £25 million, this estate is one of the largest on our list. With seven additional estate houses and cottages, it’s ideal for creating a thriving community or business. The sheer scale of this property feels almost overwhelming, but isn’t that what makes it so exciting?
| Estate | Location | Price | Key Features |
| East Sussex Manor | East Sussex | £5m | 249 acres, family shoot, equestrian facilities |
| Craigengillan Estate | Ayrshire, Scotland | £5m+ | 590 acres, fishing rights, Dark Sky area |
| Logie Estate | Aberdeenshire, Scotland | £2.8m+ | 224 acres, driven shooting, nature reserve |
| Fuidge Manor | Devon | £3.75m+ | 257 acres, deer stalking, river frontage |
| Moores Farm | Bath | £5m | 197 acres, pheasant shoot, fishing lakes |
| Radicondoli Estate | Tuscany, Italy | €20m | 2,471 acres, wild boar hunting, villa |
| Mount Farm | Wiltshire | £8.75m | 170 acres, family shoot, classical design |
| Bapton Manor | Warminster | £25m | 1,796 acres, fishing rights, woodland |
What to Consider When Buying a Shooting Estate
Buying a property with a shooting estate is a big decision, and it’s not just about the price tag. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Location: Is the estate close to amenities or isolated for maximum privacy?
- Sporting Rights: Check the specific rights included, such as fishing or shooting privileges.
- Condition: Some properties, like Fuidge Manor, require renovation, which can impact costs.
- Income Potential: Could you lease the land or host events to offset expenses?
- Conservation: Consider how the estate balances sport with environmental stewardship.
In my experience, the best estates strike a balance between lifestyle and practicality. You want a property that feels like a retreat but also works as an investment. Have you thought about what matters most to you—heritage, adventure, or financial returns?
The Lifestyle of a Shooting Estate Owner
Owning a shooting estate is about more than just land—it’s about crafting a life that’s uniquely yours. Picture hosting friends for a weekend of shooting, followed by a feast in a historic dining hall. Or perhaps you prefer quiet mornings by the river, rod in hand, with nothing but the sound of nature. These properties offer a chance to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and reconnect with what matters.
But it’s not all glamour. Managing an estate requires effort—overseeing land, maintaining buildings, and navigating local regulations. Yet, for those who love a challenge, it’s incredibly rewarding. I’ve always thought there’s something deeply satisfying about stewarding a piece of land for future generations.
An estate isn’t just property; it’s a legacy you build and pass on.
– Land management expert
Why Now Is the Time to Invest
The market for luxury estates with sporting rights is heating up. According to recent property reports, demand for rural properties has surged as buyers seek space and privacy post-pandemic. Estates like these are rare, and their value often appreciates over time, especially in sought-after regions like Scotland or Tuscany. If you’ve been considering a big move, now might be the perfect moment to act.
Plus, these properties offer something intangible: a connection to history and nature that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re drawn to the rolling hills of England or the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, there’s an estate out there calling your name. Which one caught your eye?
Final Thoughts
Owning a shooting estate is a dream for many, but it’s within reach for those ready to take the plunge. From the historic charm of East Sussex to the wild beauty of Tuscany, these eight properties offer a rare blend of luxury, adventure, and investment potential. I find myself daydreaming about the possibilities—perhaps you are too? Whether you’re a seasoned investor or simply curious, these estates are worth exploring.
So, what’s stopping you? The chance to own a piece of history, surrounded by nature and opportunity, is waiting. Maybe it’s time to turn that dream into reality.
