The british
retriever trophy

The UK’s Elite Gun Dog Competition for Retrievers

launching june 2027
2-day competition
£25,000 Prize Fund
dummy-based no live game
Set within a premier UK estate
the british retriever trophy

A new Elite gun dog competition, bringing together the very best handlers and retrievers from across the UK and beyond.

Built on the foundations of traditional gundog working tests, the Trophy has been designed to showcase elite performance, reward excellence, and elevate the standard of working tests for gundogs.

Launching in June 2027, this gun dog open working test represents a defining moment for the sport, combining proven qualification pathways, a prestigious setting, and a best-in-class competition format.

Learn more
An Elite Open Working Test

The 2027 Trophy

The inaugural 2027 Trophy is an invitation-only Open Working Test, featuring qualified retrievers that have won at the highest level of gundog working tests.

format

Qualification through Kennel Club-affiliated AV Open Working Tests

Dummy-based format, no live game involved

Day 1

Full field of 70 qualified dogs

Day 2

Progressive cut to Grand Final
  Top 6 compete for the Trophy

prize fund

champion's prize

£10,000

totaL prize fund

£25,000

the venue

Set within a premier UK estate environment, the event combines tradition with innovation, delivering a standout gun dog competition experience for both competitors and spectators.

About usRooted in the traditions of gundog working tests, the Trophy provides a platform where the highest levels of training, handling and performance are recognised.

The British Retriever Trophy has been created with a clear purpose: to deliver a best-in-class, UK-based gun dog competition for elite retrievers. Built for those who compete seriously in working tests for gundogs, it offers a structured pathway from Open-level success to national recognition.

Who we are
A Clear Pathway to Elite Competition

Experience Gundog Working Tests at Their Highest Level

The British Retriever Trophy is designed exclusively for proven performers in working tests for gundogs.

With a structured format and high-level judging, the Trophy represents a true test of the modern retriever gun dog.

The British Retriever Trophy offers a unique opportunity to witness elite gundog working tests in a professional and engaging setting.

  • judging conditions

    Handlers qualify by winning recognised Open-level gundog working tests, ensuring that every competitor has demonstrated excellence under formal judging conditions.

    • One entry per handler and per dog
    • Approximately 70 qualified dogs are competing on Day 1
    • Progression through to a Grand Final of the top 6
  • What to expect

    Spectators can expect:

    • Multi-day competition with progressive scoring
    • Live scoring and leaderboard updates throughout the day
    • Advanced retriever work, including marking, blinds, and handling
    • A knowledgeable and passionate audience
    • A traditional countryside setting aligned with the heritage of gun dog competition

Importantly, the event is entirely dummy-based, meaning no live game is used, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the skill and discipline involved in working tests for gundogs.

a Premier Gun Dog Competition

the British Retriever Trophy

sat & SUn

19 - 20

june 2027

June 19 - June 20, 2027

09:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Apley Estate, Shropshire TF11 9ED

Membership

Join the British Retriever Trophy Community

Membership opportunities will be introduced to provide deeper engagement with The British Retriever Trophy.

For those actively involved in gundog working tests, membership will offer a closer connection to one of the UK’s most exciting new gun dog competition platforms.

membership benefits

Priority access to tickets and event updates

Exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights

Early announcements and competition news

Latest News & Insights

Industry Insights: Gundog Working Tests & Competition Updates

@TBRTStay up to date with the latest developments from The British Retriever Trophy and the wider world of working tests for gundogs.

Our 2027 Sponsors & Partners

More than a competition

A New Benchmark in Working Tests for Gundogs

The British Retriever Trophy is more than a competition; it is a platform designed to recognise excellence, support the gundog community, and set a new standard for gun dog competition in the UK.

The Venue

Apley Estate is a sprawling 8,000-acre Shropshire estate that has been home to the Hamilton family for generations, with a history stretching back to 1585. Today it blends its rich heritage with a working farm, farm shop and event spaces, making it the perfect setting for The British Retriever Trophy.

Apley Estate

Apley Estate sits near Norton, just outside Shifnal in Shropshire (TF11 9EJ), within easy reach of the M54 and only a short drive from Telford, Bridgnorth and Wolverhampton.

Find us at

Apley Estate,
Norton, Nr Shifnal,
Shropshire TF11 9EJ
View in maps

Enquiries

enquiries@tbrt.co.uk
01234 57890
Contact us