England - the cradle of European hunting culture

November 2, 2024

European hunting traditions originated many centuries ago. Great Britain made a considerable contribution to this process. Over the previous centuries, various events took place in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland that left their mark on the hunting culture of Europe. England made a special effort. Local residents' love for hunting allowed it to become a trendsetter in this matter, followed by other countries. That is why this part of Great Britain received the status of the cradle of European hunting culture. Our article will consider the most critical stages in forming England as the center of European hunting. We will assess its contribution to the development of world hunting culture.

History of hunting in England
Hunting in England has a very long history, which began long before the birth of Christ. It is full of pleasant and adverse events, each of which left its mark and helped shape modern hunting in England as it is today. Gradually moving through the eras, you can catch the connection between the past and the present and understand the total value of the hunting culture of the most significant part of Great Britain. Early period
From the earliest days of human existence, hunting has been the primary means of survival. In those distant times, people killed animals not for pleasure but for food and valuable skins, which was a completely natural phenomenon. The first settlers on the British Isles appeared after the Ice Age. Then, they hunted mainly large mammals that lived in those places. Traces of human hunting activities found by archaeologists on the island of Jersey prove these statements. They are the earliest evidence that hunting was the main occupation of people in Britain for a very long time. Similar discoveries were made in Creswell Crags and Cheddar Gorge. They make it possible to claim that hunting in the territory of modern England arose at about the same time as in other parts of the British Isles.
The main hunting objects in those days were deer and wild boar. These animals lived in large quantities on the British Isles, allowing people to survive. The most primitive tools were used for hunting. Initially, these were simple stones and sharpened sticks. Then, they were replaced by spears and arrows. The evolution of hunting weapons in England was slow, so people did not change their usual ways of killing animals for centuries.
Profound changes awaited England and all the British Isles in the first century AD. In 43, the Romans began the process of conquering Britain. The Celts who inhabited the islands at that time gave a severe rebuff to the grand army but were still defeated in 84. This event seriously impacted all areas of British activity, including hunting. The Romans brought new species of animals (deer, hare and others) to the islands, which took root well in the local climate and, in the future, became popular prey for hunters. The Roman Empire also taught the British modern hunting methods, which allowed for a severe leap in the development of hunting culture.
At the turn of the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, hunting became the leading entertainment of the Roman elite. This event made animal shooting accessible only to the elite. They staged real hunting shows that could last for several days. Another achievement of the Romans was the appearance of hunting dog breeds in Britain. The local elite actively used these animals to hunt wild boars and other game. Hunting with dogs quickly became popular in the British Isles and left its mark on history.

Middle Ages
In the Middle Ages, England and its hunting culture faced several fateful events simultaneously. The first was the unification of seven kingdoms into a single whole. This happened in 927 and became the beginning of the history of England as a separate country. At that time, hunting remained a popular pastime of the rich. Methods of obtaining animals gradually changed and adapted to modern realities. At the same time, in general, they stayed about the same as during the reign of the Romans.
England gained new masters in 1066. At that time, Normandy invaded the country and, six years later, wholly subjugated it. The arrival of the Normans became a new stage in the development of local hunting. The conquerors gave some forests royal status and closed them to ordinary residents of England. Only representatives of the ruling family and their relatives and friends could hunt in these places. This event made hunting an entertainment for the nobility, significantly influencing its further development.
After some time, the Normans adopted the so-called Forest Laws. They not only limited the hunting rights of ordinary people but also provided severe punishments for trying to kill an animal. Initially, they were created to protect animals and their habitats. However, in reality, the representatives of the ruling family did not want anyone else to appear in their forests. A hefty fine was used as a punishment for violating the Forest Laws. In more severe cases, imprisonment or even execution was provided. Despite such punishments, ordinary people continued to hunt for food. They did this in places where it was most challenging to detect their poaching activities.

17th century
At the end of the reign of the Tudor royal dynasty and in the first years after the Stuart family came to power, hunting remained the leading entertainment of the aristocrats. During this period, it changed significantly as firearms began to be actively used. They significantly simplified the game's shooting and made hitting targets from a long distance possible. Due to this, the forests quickly became empty, putting hunting in England on the brink of extinction. To prevent this, representatives of the Stuart royal family even issued an order to breed and release various birds into the wild. These were mainly popular hunting species, such as partridges and pheasants. Gradually, such measures improved the situation, and hunting became available to aristocrats.
In the middle of the 17th century, the English Civil War began. It seriously affected hunting, as almost all the royal forests were burned and cut down during the fighting. Also, during this period, there was a specific redistribution of hunting rights in the surviving hunting grounds, as a result of which this activity became more accessible to ordinary people. The monarchy was restored a few years after the end of the English Civil War. With it, the long-established hunting traditions returned. From then on, hunting again became an activity permitted exclusively to aristocrats.

18th and 19th centuries
The merger of England and Scotland marked the beginning of the 18th century. This happened in 1707 and allowed such a state as Great Britain to appear on the world map. This event deepened the ties between England and Scotland in all spheres of activity. It did not bypass hunting. Many English traditions intersected with Scottish ones, creating new, unique combinations. In particular, fox hunting became extremely popular in Britain in the 18th century. At that time, it was not so much a hunt as a competition between the best hunters of the young state. In obtaining games, the British began to use dogs of particular breeds. Some were brought from abroad, and the others were bred in England. In addition to foxes, a similar hunting method was used to obtain hares and other small mammals, which were brought to Britain at the beginning of the 18th century.
The gradual development of Great Britain made it necessary to regulate the hunting process by law. In this regard, several laws were adopted in 1831. They touched upon a wide range of aspects. They helped to balance the rights of hunters, owners of territories where hunting was conducted, and farmers whose crops were constantly threatened by the actions of various types of game (primarily birds). In addition, the introduction of hunting laws made it possible to protect certain species from population decline (a ban on shooting living creatures during their breeding season was introduced) and extinction (a ban on shooting rare animals was introduced).

20th and 21th centuries
At the beginning of the 20th century, as in all developed countries, hunting in England was regulated by law. At the same time, this activity remained aristocratic and was used as entertainment mainly by members of the royal family. Thus, good hunters were kings Edward VII, George V, and George VI, who took part in various hunting events and killed many games with their guns.
During WWII, the English stopped caring about hunting. They used their guns to protect the state or handed them over to the military. After the end of hostilities, hunting was banned. However, a few years later, it was allowed throughout Great Britain. Then, England faced urbanization. Various cities grew at a rapid pace, due to which many hunting grounds were destroyed. In the remaining places, the English used modern hunting methods, which caused most of the traditions to be temporarily forgotten.
The decline lasted long enough until people realized the importance of animals and all wildlife. This was followed by various laws protecting endangered species, new protected areas and exceptional hunting grounds where animals raised and released into the wild were used as game. This approach turned hunting into a more humane activity, where the game was killed in moderation. It did not interfere with the everyday existence of the species in a particular area.
In the 21st century, English wildlife conservationists achieved a ban on hunting with dogs. Several important laws were passed, toughening the penalties for violating various hunting rules. The previous decade saw the rise of organizations such as BASC. They all promoted fair hunting, which did not deprive the animal of its chances of survival. Various organizations also promoted the idea of ​​combining hunting activities with wildlife conservation. According to it, only those species whose population had grown excessively compared to the previous reporting period could be shot.
Nowadays, hunting in England is a traditional pastime. The purpose of this pastime is not to get a trophy but to maintain the hunting culture of Great Britain. In this regard, many hunters use old methods of catching and shooting animals or combine them with modern options. Modern hunting in England is a real art that does not disturb the balance between nature and human activity.

The influence of England on hunting culture around the world
The eventful history of hunting in England proves that this part of Great Britain is the European and world center of hunting culture. Thanks to this, various rules and laws have appeared in many countries that help regulate hunters' activities. Also, thanks to England's efforts, new hunting methods became available to the world, which helped to achieve a certain balance between man and wildlife.

Spread of hunting traditions
From ancient times to today, England has been a trendsetter in hunting. At different periods of its history, it formed hunting traditions that first took root in other parts of modern Great Britain and then spread to other countries in Europe and the world. This allowed England to become a center of hunting culture, which even representatives of different continents looked up to.
Among the many hunting traditions that appeared thanks to England, fox hunting stands out in particular. This activity was first tried in 1534 in Norfolk. Then, it changed a little, and in the 17th century, it became more organized and carried out considering specific rules. Fox hunting in Britain was a competition, the winners of which maximized their status and received special recognition from fellow hobbyists. After some time, fox hunting similarly began in Scotland and Wales. This tradition migrated to the USA and Canada and appeared in New Zealand and Australia. A popular hunting tradition that originated in England and then spread to dozens of other countries in Europe and the world was driven hunts for different types of birds. At first, it was carried out in wild areas, then transferred to specially prepared forest areas, where many grown game was released in advance. This tradition quickly became popular in Scotland, as well as in many countries of the British Commonwealth. The English tradition of using dogs in hunting deserves special mention. The British began to take hounds with them into the forest en masse and, with their help, increased the chances of getting a trophy. Dogs played the role of bloodhounds and beaters. In the first case, thanks to their sense of smell, they found hidden wild animals and signaled their owners about the find in a unique way, and in the second, they drove the game into places where the hunter could quickly shoot it. For these purposes, the English bred particular breeds of dogs with the qualities necessary to perform such work. This is how such popular breeds as the foxhound, beagle and springer spaniel appeared. After the English, dogs began to be used in almost all countries where hunting was not a way to get food but a simple entertainment for aristocrats. Another famous hunting tradition England gave the world is the introduction of various exotic games into British forests and its adaptation to existing conditions. The original goal of this event was to expand the list of animals that could be hunted. However, this tradition later helped resettle species humans had been deprived of their natural habitat. Thanks to England, Asian deer species and other ungulates appeared in various forests of Europe. All of them are popular games today that anyone can hunt.

Creation of hunting laws
England has always been the European leader in creating and implementing hunting laws. Many of them were taken by other countries and used to regulate the shooting of animals on their territory. Initially, most laws were “tested” in different parts of Great Britain (for example, in Scotland). Only after that were they extended to Europe, the USA and the countries of the British Commonwealth.
Most of the laws introduced in England aimed to create a balance between the desire of hunters to get game and the desire to protect wildlife. In this regard, in different years, certain restrictions were introduced regarding the use of certain weapons. The guns that gave hunters very high chances and did not leave them to animals were banned. The laws also regulated the shooting of individuals of a particular sex and age. For example, in the 19th century, the concept of hunting seasons was introduced in England. They allowed shooting at certain animals only during a certain period of the year. It was chosen depending on the characteristics of the species and its breeding periods. Representatives of dozens of other countries worldwide adopted the English experience of using hunting seasons. Thanks to this, these laws exist to this day. In modern England, most hunting laws are adopted to protect the environment and the animals that live in it. Some of them are copied by other countries, which allows England to remain the European leader in this area.

Turning hunting into a noble occupation
England's significant contribution to developing European and world hunting culture can be considered the transformation of hunting into a noble occupation. This process lasted for several centuries. Initially, hunting was a means of obtaining food, because of which animals were killed in huge numbers, and no one thought about their survival on our planet. However, the English were the first to pay attention to this issue and forced others to do the same.
In England, hunting has always been an aristocratic occupation. Representatives of the royal family actively participated in such events, which made it possible to turn them into a more noble event. This led to the emergence of new types of hunting that were not as cruel as before. Gradually, they became traditional for Great Britain and many European and North American countries.
The English were the first to create hunting clubs and associations. These organizations made it possible to unite people with shared interests and helped develop the hunting business. The main principle of such clubs and associations was to do what you love without harming wildlife. Thanks to this, promoting noble and humane hunting methods was possible. Many hunting societies in England became an excellent example to follow. Similar organizations were formed in other countries of Europe and the world according to their principles. Many English clubs and associations exist to this day. They continue to adhere to their principles and help make hunting a more noble occupation.

Modern hunting in England
England is a modern country that actively develops all activities, including hunting. This activity is available to everyone, regardless of gender, age and financial status. Anyone who wants to test themselves and get a good trophy should choose the right hunting location, select the priority type of game, and study the hunting laws and regulations in England.

Rules and laws
England is one of the best places for hunting. This activity is popular among locals and visitors from other countries in this part of Great Britain. To get the opportunity to get their trophy, all of them must obey English laws and follow specific rules. Only in this case will hunting be legal and can bring pleasure, and not a hefty monetary fine.
The main rule of hunting in England is always to have a hunting license with you. It is an admission to this type of activity. Depending on the chosen hunting place, it can be supplemented by a special permit, allowing you to shoot legally in a particular area. This document is issued individually to each hunter and often concerns only one type of game.
In England, as in other European countries, there is a rule of hunting seasons. They are established depending on many factors, making shooting certain animals legal only during a particular year. Hunting outside the specified periods will be considered poaching. In most counties in England, a hunter must report to authorized persons or organizations the number and types of animals killed. This must be done within 24 hours, after which all games will be considered stolen. This rule does not apply to all animals but only to those whose populations are carefully monitored.
When hunting in England, you can only use firearms for which the hunter has a license. They must meet several requirements and not use prohibited ammunition. The latter in England include lead products (due to their danger to various species of wild birds). In addition, there is a law that provides for severe punishment for the use of a gun by hunters under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Best locations
There are many excellent hunting grounds in England. They are evenly distributed throughout the country, so residents of different countries can do their favorite things without even going far from home. Foreigners who come to England for a valuable trophy can choose the most suitable location to get a game and have a good time.

New Forest
Among the many hunting locations in England, the New Forest stands out. It is located near Southampton and in the counties of Hampshire and Wiltshire. This area was founded in 1079 and was used as a Royal Forest, where local nobility hunted various game types. Currently, the New Forest combines forested areas, meadows and heathland. Such diversity allows for ideal living conditions for a large number of animals. The most common animals here are red deer, roe deer, and fallow deer. All of them are suitable for hunting, which in the New Forest is used exclusively to maintain optimal populations of various species. In this regard, hunters can obtain a special permit to shoot only certain species of animals.

Forest of Dean
In Gloucestershire, the most popular hunting area is the Forest of Dean. It was set aside in 1066 for the needs of the royal family. Here, members of the ruling dynasty and local nobility regularly hunted and got many trophies. This forest is one of the oldest in England. It is characterized by 110 square kilometers of dense mixed forest cut by stunning river valleys and limestone gorges. These places are home to a vast number of wild boars. They are the most often targeted by hunters. Also, the Forest of Dean is home to many ungulates, particularly deer. As in the case of the New Forest, hunting is used in this area to maintain balance in the local ecosystem. In this regard, hunting here is only possible with a special permit.

Epping Forest
Epping Forest is an ancient forest that covers an area of ​​2.4 thousand hectares between Essex and Greater London. It has the most extended history, during which this location became a hunting ground for famous British monarchs. Today, Epping Forest is a protected area where dense vegetation harmoniously combines with open spaces and forms many ecosystems. The territory of this forest is home to many species of birds, which often become a priority target for hunters. People also come here for fallow deer and muntjac deer. To hunt in Epping Forest, you need to get a special permit issued only during a certain period of the year. The rest of the time, hunting in this location is prohibited.

Thetford Forest
This famous natural location in Suffolk and Norfolk appeared after WWI. It has an area of ​​19 thousand hectares and is a protected nature reserve. Thetford Forest has many pine trees. They grow close to each other, which creates excellent conditions for animals. The forest also has open areas, home to many small living creatures. Hunting in Thetford Forest is more accessible than in all the places described above. There are no problems with the populations of many species, so getting permission to shoot various animals is relatively easy. Among the most popular games, hunters highlight the red, roe, and muntjac deer. In addition to them, Thetford Forest has many birds, such as pheasants, wild pigeons and partridges.

Kielder Forest
Excellent hunting grounds are located in Kielder Forest. This famous location is situated in the county of Northumberland and covers an area of ​​650 square kilometers. It is known throughout England for its origin. The fact is that until the 1930s, the territory that Kielder Forest now occupies was a wasteland. However, after that, thousands of trees were planted, which grew and turned into a full-fledged forest. Today, this object is one of England's most extensive artificial forests. On its territory, there are not only trees but also reservoirs. This feature makes this location an excellent place for hunting waterfowl. There are also many roe deer, red deer and birds of prey here. Hunting in Kielder Forest is possible only with a special permit, but it is easy for most hunters to obtain it.

Popular types of game
The forests, plains and waters of England are full of various game. It is always a desired goal of real British hunters and lovers of this activity from abroad. Multiple lists of priority options most often include five popular animals. All of them are widespread in England, and everyone can get them.

Red Deer
England's largest land mammal is a priority target for many modern hunters. This animal can reach a height of almost 140 cm and weigh up to 190 kg. Such characteristics make it a suitable prey available to beginners and professionals. In the warm season, this deer has a dark brown color, thanks to which it is well camouflaged among tree trunks. In winter, the deer's fur becomes lighter. Representatives of this species should be looked for in any English forest. They live in all counties, so hunters will always be free to choose a suitable location. Deer hunting is only allowed in compliance with the seasonality rule and with a standard hunting license. Depending on the selected area, a permit for shooting a specific type of animal may also be required.

Fallow Deer
The ideal option for lovers of the minor game would be the fallow deer. It is a close relative of deer but is significantly inferior to them in size and weight. In England, representatives of this species rarely reach a height of 90 cm. The color of the fallow deer's fur can vary depending on the time of year and the characteristics of the habitat. Therefore, in the forests of England, it is quite possible to see animals in red, black, and white colors. Also, a characteristic feature of fallow deer is the presence of white spots. To hunt these animals, you should choose deciduous forests. Fallow deer are most comfortable there due to the abundance of food and many places to hide. There are representatives of this species in coniferous forests and near agricultural lands. The rules for hunting fallow deer are the same as for red deer. The only difference is that you must start hunting fallow deer a little later (the hunting season begins about one month later).

Roe Deer
An even smaller relative of deer is the roe deer. It is a hoofed mammal that reaches a 60-70 cm height and weighs no more than 25 kg. In England, roe deer are even smaller than in other European countries. The color of the animals changes with each season. The initial red color gradually fades and becomes gray-brown by winter. The roe deer antlers are small and grow only in males. Hunters should look for these mammals in forests with much bush. This becomes the shelter of the roe deer in case of danger. The rules for hunting these animals are approximately the same as for the fallow deer. Slight differences are observed only in the beginning and end dates of the hunting season.

Wild Boar
Wild boars are popular hunting animals in England, as in many other European countries. They live in almost all forest areas and never have problems with the population. Due to this feature, hunting wild boars is allowed all year round. These animals are enormous in England and often weigh over 100 kg. The best place to hunt wild boars is the Forest of Dean. They are also most accessible to hunters in the southern part of England. Bars are also found in other parts of the country, but seeing them will be more challenging. You only need permission to hunt in one place or another to get this animal.

Pheasant
Among all the birds in England suitable for hunting, the most popular are pheasants. The males of this species stand out for their bright plumage, which includes red, blue and golden shades. Females have more traditional brown plumage, with small dark spots all over the body. Pheasants are found in many forests in England. They are also common in meadows and places located near agricultural lands. You can hunt pheasants with a license and permission to shoot in the chosen location. The hunting season lasts quite a long time, so everyone will have time to get a feathered trophy.

It is not for nothing that England was called the cradle of European hunting culture. In this country, hunting has long become a real art with its traditions, rituals and rules. Its residents greatly appreciate the achievements of their ancestors, so they carefully protect hunting and its cultural values. This allows England to remain a kind of European center, where the initially simple shooting of animals is taken to a new level, unattainable for many.