Lees Court is renowned for its first class shoot, which takes place over much of the Estate with the highest birds being presented over the steep sided valley that runs north to south through the middle of the Estate.  The shoot has been listed in Alex Brant's book "The World's Best Shoots" published in September 2008.

The first days of the season will take place in October, with 14 or more days through to January. A mix of pheasants and red-legged partridges are released on the Estate for the shooting season.

Shoot Lodge at
Lees Court Estate

The Countess Sondes, who runs the Lees Court Shoot, assumed the responsibility on the death of her husband, The Earl Sondes, in 1996. She is assisted by her gamekeeper Shayne Dean, and employs up to an additional 60 people on shoot days, including beaters, pickers up, loaders and catering staff.

The Countess Sondes is a vociferous supporter of shooting. She thinks it is important that this historically significant way of life is maintained and believes the shoot improves biodiversity on the Estate, as well as generating local employment and supporting the rural economy.

Lees Court is about an hour and a half’s drive from central London and approximately 15 minutes from Ashford International Railway Station.