Grouse Season Report 2025

9th January 2026

Following encouraging brood counts earlier in the summer, expectations were high as we approached the 2025 grouse season. However, as is often the case on the moors, conditions varied and the season proved challenging in places.

As broods began to hatch, the prolonged dry spell took hold. The drought placed considerable stress on the heather, leaving it increasingly susceptible to heather beetle, which affected significant areas of the moorland.

Nevertheless, there were some heartening signs. Good pockets of grouse remained in certain areas, with Swaledale in particular producing some very sporting and enjoyable days’ shooting. Over the course of the season, we managed approximately 70 days in total. Also having some great days in Lower Teesdale and also The North York Moors.

Early August brought periods of unseasonably warm weather, this made for testing conditions at times. Fortunately, as we moved into September, more favourable weather prevailed, allowing us to provide our clients with a number of memorable and thoroughly enjoyable days on the moors.

Looking ahead, we do so with cautious optimism. Worm counts are generally low and, in many areas, improving, while sound stocks have been left on the moors. These factors give us encouragement as we plan for the season ahead.

We would like to thank the keepers and all staff for their continued hard work and commitment throughout the season, often in difficult conditions. We are also most grateful to our clients for their support and good company, and we look forward to welcoming them back onto the moors in the seasons to come.