Glorious Twelfth: walked‑up grouse at dawn

Walking-Up Grouse: The Experience

The Glorious Twelfth is the moment when misty heather moors awaken to the familiar flush of red grouse across the UK. Once the season opens, Guns and beaters assemble for the traditional walked‑up shoot – a testing blend of endurance, instinct and fieldcraft. 

As dawn breaks, the pungent scent of peat mixes with excitement. The day brings unpredictable shots, adrenaline-fuelled covey flushes, and the soothing rhythm of boots and dogs quartering across peaty hags. Anticipation builds slowly. Dogs give the first signals: a tail waggles, scent drops, and then lift off. Coveys break through the heather with explosive energy. Shots require instant reactions and discipline. 

At the end of the day, you feel the weight of boots, the buzz of adrenaline, but also the satisfaction of flushes faced, crossers taken, and a moor thoroughly walked. Beyond the bag, it’s the camaraderie, the crisp air, and the throat‑catching sight of grouse rising that make the day unforgettable.

Walking‑up is about fitness, fieldcraft and fine kit—but also respect: for the moor, the dogs, the shoot team, and the traditions we enjoy. The Glorious Twelfth remains one of Britain’s finest sporting days. Walked‑up grouse delivers raw nature, challenging shooting, and indelible moorland memories. Kit well, walk smart, shoot safe – and savour every flush.

Essential Kit for Walked-Up Grouse

Gateway1 Fiordland II 11-inch Boots

Visit gateway1-footgear.com
RRP: £314

A wet foot early on can ruin the day. These tall, leather boots provide essential ankle support and cushion weak joints on rough terrain. The thick soles absorb jagged rock impact and grip well in boggy ground. The leather shrugs off the dry heather that shreds synthetic footwear.

Browning B825 Game

See more at browning.eu
RRP: £2,479

This improved over-and-under shotgun features a sleek receiver and a redesigned top lever, safety catch, and forend latch. The mechanical trigger handles light loads, while the Inflex II recoil pad softens shoulder impact. At 7lb 11oz, it offers ideal control for fast grouse crossing shots.
Read more: Best shotguns for walked-up grouse

Fine Shooting Accessories Buffalo Cartridge Bag

Visit fineshootingaccessories.com
RRP from £625

Crafted in buffalo leather, this cartridge bag is both beautiful and functional. It holds 150 cartridges, shrugs off wet weather, and feels timeless. Custom monogramming is included, and the textured leather offers grip even in the worst conditions.

Alan Paine Combrook Tweed Waistcoat

alanpaine.co.uk
RRP: £219.95

Early grouse days are often warm. This sleeveless tweed waistcoat keeps you cool and mobile. It’s made from water-repellent wool and features gusseted cartridge pockets, side splits and a vented back for movement.

Shots and Company Cartridge Spirits

Visit shotsandcompany.com
RRP from £85

These novelty cartridge-shaped bottles contain top-quality spirits. Choose from sloe gin, 10-year single malt, or salted caramel vodka. The whisky has maple and baked apple notes, while the vodka combines sweetness with sea salt for a smooth sip in the field.

Jack Pyke Canvas Game Bag

Available from: jackpyke.co.uk
RRP: £47.95

A practical canvas game bag that blends style with functionality. Leather-strapped, wipe-clean and water-resistant, it includes a mesh front pocket for smaller game and avoids the flapping noise of less practical designs.
Also see: Best game bags for shooting

Hoggs of Fife Field and Trek Gaiters

Find them at hoggsoffife.co.uk
RRP: £32.95

Gaiters are essential in August heather. These waterproof, breathable gaiters keep debris out and prevent laces snagging. Made from Oxford nylon, they resist brambles and gorse. With secure stud fastenings, they stay put all day long.

Final Thoughts

The Glorious Twelfth is a treasured date in the field sports calendar. Walked-up grouse shooting captures its spirit best: raw, rewarding and rooted in tradition.

Dress smart, shoot safe, and savour every flush.

Explore more: Gear reviews on ShootingUK