What Can I Expect

Falconry experiences near Halifax in lovely West Yorkshire! You will be warmly welcomed by Kevin the falconer and his team for a three-hour visit to this centre on the edge of the Shibden Hall Estate.

Your experience will be filled with interesting facts and information about the magnificent birds of prey reared, trained and cared for by Kevin. You’ll hear about the history of falconry and find out why the team is so passionate about the age-old partnership between humans and wild animals.

This is an amazing array of Hawks, Falcons, Owls and an Eagle for you to meet. Ajax the Peregrine is the youngest team member. Vera the Harris Hawk is the oldest - and she has always been a diva. You’ll find out that Vera likes to be first at everything, including coming out of her aviary before anyone else and insisting on being fed before anyone else!

Having met both the feathered and non-feathered team in Halifax, it's time to choose your partner for your walk. And this is what we love most about this session, as you get to work with your favourite bird. And as group sizes are kept small (usually up to just four guests) there's plenty of choice.

And you’re in an amazing spot for it, with direct access to the Magna Via. This is the ancient trail between Halifax and Wakefield, that crosses the very picturesque Shibden Valley these birds call home and it’s a great place to be with the birds.

The walks are also a lovely way to observe raptors in their natural habitat and get to know their very distinct and individual characters - all in that wonderful West Yorkshire setting!

After your stroll, you will spend time in the field discovering how to use various bits of falconry equipment, as you experience the thrill of flying the birds to your gloved hand.

Whether it’s looking into those all-seeing eyes of Blue Boy, the Chilean Blue Eagle, or watching in admiration as Mozart the cheeky Gyr x Saker Falcon dives in at great speed, you will love your falconry experience at this Halifax centre in West Yorkshire.

When Is It Available

Suitable For

• Minimum age 10
• Under 18's must be accompanied by a participating adult

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome for a cost of £10.00 per person, payable upon booking

Anything Else

• Most of the walking is done on firm ground, but there will be walking in a field
• Sensible outdoor clothing is required