Friars Gate Archers is an archery club located in Uckfield, East Sussex. The club has a rich history, originating in 1969 on a farm within the Ashdown Forest, which is where it acquired its name. For many years, the club conducted outdoor target shooting at Buxted Park near Uckfield. However, after an extensive search for a new site, the club has now found a permanent field at Barnsgate Manor in Herons Ghyll, East Sussex.
The archery season at Friars Gate Archers runs from October through to March, with shoots taking place in an attractively wooded setting in Crowborough during this period. In addition to this, the club also has access to Eastland Wood in Fletching for year-round shooting. With a membership of around fifty active members ranging from eleven to eighty years of age, the club caters to a wide range of shooting styles. Members use equipment that span from traditional long bows to modern recurve and high-tech compound bows.
Friars Gate Archers is an inclusive club that welcomes archers of all abilities, including those with disabilities. These archers can enjoy a reduced membership fee, as can juniors and family groups. The club actively participates in various leagues, such as the Summer Selby League, as well as the Winter British Archer Frostbite and Portsmouth Leagues.
For those interested in trying out archery, Friars Gate Archers offers beginners' courses throughout the year. These courses provide professional tuition and cover the fundamentals of the sport. Each course consists of three-hour sessions held on two consecutive Sundays. It is advised to register early to secure a spot in the course.
To find the club's shooting venues, Barnsgate Manor is located at Heron's Ghyll, Uckfield, TN22 4DB. Fletching can be found at Eastland Wood, Fletching, East Sussex, TN22 3SA. Lastly, Friars Gate Farm is situated at Mardens Hill, Crowborough, East Sussex, TN6 1XH. The club also shoots indoor rounds at Golden Cross Equestrian Centre during winter evenings.
Overall, Friars Gate Archers is a vibrant archery club with a long history, diverse membership, and a commitment to inclusivity and skill development.