Hello

 

The Cranwell Bloodhounds were established in 1992 by the visionary Joint Masters, the late Philip Broughton and his wife Wendy, whose enduring legacy continues to shape our vibrant community today. Their founding mission was simple yet profound: to create a day in the countryside so enjoyable and inclusive that it could be appreciated by everyone, regardless of their background or previous experience with hunting.

 

Today, we remain a dedicated private pack specialising in the "clean boot" method—the remarkable art of tracking the natural scent of a human runner, known as the "quarry." Unlike other forms of hunting, our sport relies entirely on the incredible olfactory power of the Bloodhound, eschewing artificial scents in favour of a raw, authentic adventure. This unique approach transforms the rolling landscape into a living puzzle, where the hounds work in harmony with the terrain to solve the line laid by our cross-country runners, ensuring an experience that is as ethical as it is exhilarating.

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To initiate the day's excitement, our hounds are given the chance to "strike" the scent, either by sniffing an article of clothing belonging to the quarry or by greeting the runner personally at the meet. This interaction creates a tangible connection between the hounds and their pursuit, allowing the pack ample time to familiarise themselves with the specific scent they will follow. To ensure a fair and thrilling chase, the quarry is granted a head start of approximately twenty minutes.

 

Over a typical day, we hunt three or four distinct "lines," each offering its own rhythm and challenges. Because we rely solely on natural scent, every hunt is directly influenced by the morning dew, the wind direction, and the atmospheric conditions, meaning no two days in the field are ever the same. The unpredictability of the speed and the "music" of the hounds as they find their way across the earth provide a sensory experience that stays with participants long after the day is done.

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Beyond the formal hunting season—which spans twenty days from the crisp mornings of September through the end of March—the Cranwell Bloodhounds are a year-round fixture of country life. We believe that the bond between our hounds and the community should be nurtured constantly, which is why we host regular hound exercises every Wednesday throughout the season. These sessions offer a wonderful, behind-the-scenes look at the discipline and athleticism of the pack.

 

Furthermore, our calendar is packed with a variety of social events and "fun rides" designed for all abilities. These rides provide a relaxed atmosphere for newcomers to find their feet and for seasoned riders to enjoy the scenery without the pressure of a full hunt. We are proud to be a familiar face at numerous country shows and fairs across the region, where we enjoy meeting the public, introducing our gentle hounds to new friends, and celebrating the traditions of the countryside with a modern, welcoming twist.

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Deeply rooted in our local heritage, the Cranwell Bloodhounds are also committed to fostering the next generation of rural enthusiasts. We maintain strong associations with local schools and the Young Farmers, hosting educational visits and collaborative events that highlight the importance of conservation, animal husbandry, and community spirit. By opening our gates to youth organisations, we aim to inspire a lasting passion for the countryside and the unique sport of clean-boot hunting.

 

Whether you are a high-octane rider, a foot-follower who enjoys a brisk walk in the fresh air, or a family looking to enjoy a local fair, you are invited to join us. We pride ourselves on being more than just a hunt; we are a community hub where tradition meets modern camaraderie, ensuring that the joy of the pursuit is accessible to all.

 

To keep up with our busy schedule, please be sure to visit our Events Page, which is updated regularly with details on all our upcoming hunts, hound exercises, social rides, and community appearances.

 

We look forward to seeing you in the field!

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