In the heart of Britain, amid the rolling hills and storybook villages, lie legendary castles with towering stone walls and sprawling courtyards. These symbols of history and heritage are not just remnants of a bygone era. They continue to live, breathe, and evolve, embodying the spirit and culture of England in their every crevice. Among the many things these castles offer, one of the most unique and exciting experiences is the ancient sport of falconry. Today, we will take you on a discovery tour of five prominent English castles where you can witness incredible falconry displays and even participate in interactive shows.
1. Leeds Castle, Kent
Known as "The Loveliest Castle in the World," Leeds Castle in Kent is a place where beautiful landscapes meet rich history and exciting activities. One of the main attractions at this 900-year-old castle is the Falconry display.
The castle grounds are home to the Leeds Castle Falconry team, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of these magnificent birds with visitors. The team has a variety of birds, including falcons, hawks, owls, and vultures. Their daily flying demonstrations in the castle’s extensive parklands are a true spectacle.
In addition to the displays, Leeds Castle also offers a ‘Hawk Experience’ where you get to hold, fly, and feed hawks under the guidance of experienced falconers. This immersive experience offers insights into the life of these birds and the art of falconry.
2. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Warwick Castle’s history spans over 1,100 years, making it a place of significant historical relevance. The castle not only offers the chance to explore medieval architecture but also hosts one of the most thrilling falconry displays in England.
The Warwick Castle’s Birds of Prey Show is nothing short of amazing. The castle’s skilled falconers demonstrate the hunting prowess of their birds in live demonstrations that are sure to leave spectators awestruck. The star of the show is the Andean Condor, the largest bird of prey in the world, with a wingspan reaching an impressive 10 feet.
Interactive experiences are also available here. Visitors can learn about the ancient art of falconry and even have the opportunity to handle these majestic birds under expert supervision.
3. Bovey Castle, Devon
Bovey Castle is a luxury castle hotel located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. While the castle itself is a masterpiece of Edwardian architecture, the falconry experience it offers is where the real magic lies.
Visitors can meet the castle’s resident falconer and his collection of hawks, falcons, and owls, and learn about their characteristics, hunting habits, and flight patterns. The highlight of the visit is the chance to witness a flying display where the birds dart through the air with incredible speed and precision.
Bovey Castle also lets you get up close with the birds during their Falconry Experience. Under the watchful eye of the falconer, you can handle the birds, learn to fly them, and even take part in a simulated hunt.
4. Dunrobin Castle, Highlands
Located in the Scottish Highlands, Dunrobin Castle may not technically be in England, but it’s definitely worth including on this list. One of the most beautiful stately homes in the U.K., Dunrobin Castle has been home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for over 700 years.
The castle’s falconry displays are held in the castle gardens with the beautiful castle backdrop adding a touch of grandeur to the experience. The expert falconer showcases a variety of birds of prey, including eagles, falcons, and owls, and demonstrates their impressive flying and hunting skills.
Dunrobin also offers a Falconry Experience where you can handle the birds and learn about falconry. This experience gives you a unique perspective on these incredible creatures and their relationship with their handlers.
5. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Alnwick Castle, one of the largest inhabited castles in England, is renowned for its stunning architecture and sprawling gardens. However, the castle is also known for its exciting ‘On the Wing’ falconry displays.
The castle’s Falconry Centre houses a range of birds of prey, including falcons, hawks, and owls. These birds are brought out daily for flying demonstrations that are a sight to behold. The falconers showcase the birds’ incredible speed, agility, and hunting skills while discussing their characteristics and significance in medieval times.
Visitors can also participate in a Falconry Experience where they handle and fly the birds under the guidance of experienced falconers. This hands-on experience is a great way to learn about these birds and the ancient art of falconry.
The chance to witness falconry displays within the historic confines of these castles is nothing short of extraordinary. The combination of history, architecture, and the spectacular sight of birds of prey in flight creates an experience that’s both educational and exhilarating. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to England, make sure to add these castles to your itinerary for an unforgettable falconry adventure.
6. Hever Castle, Kent
Nestled in the Eden Valley, Hever Castle in Kent is a 13th-century gem with rich history. It was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the intriguing second wife of King Henry VIII. Today, it stands as a remarkable destination offering a variety of attractions, the most exhilarating of which is the falconry display.
The Hever Castle Falconry team proudly presents a collection of birds of prey, including hawks, falcons, owls, and eagles. They hold daily flying demonstrations in the spectacular castle gardens, offering visitors the thrilling spectacle of these magnificent creatures in flight.
Aside from the displays, Hever Castle also offers a ‘Hawk Walk’. This unique falconry experience allows you to learn about the birds, their traits, and their hunting skills under the guidance of skilled falconers. You’ll have the chance to hold, feed, and fly hawks in the beautiful castle surroundings – a memory to cherish for a lifetime.
7. Chilham Castle, Kent
Often overlooked yet equally impressive, Chilham Castle in Kent offers a unique combination of history, beautiful landscape, and a captivating falconry display. The castle grounds, with their stunning vistas and verdant forests, provide the perfect backdrop for the aerial antics of various birds of prey.
The castle’s expert falconers are deeply passionate about their bird prey and delight in sharing their knowledge with visitors. They conduct daily demonstrations showcasing the hunting prowess and speed of hawks, falcons, and owls.
Furthermore, Chilham Castle offers a hands-on falconry experience. This unforgettable activity allows you to hold these magnificent creatures, learn about their habits and characteristics, and even try your hand at flying them. Under the expert guidance of the falconers, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the ancient art of falconry.
Exploring the scenic landscapes and rich history of England’s castles is a worthwhile adventure. Adding the thrill of witnessing a falconry display or participating in a falconry experience makes it an unforgettable journey. Whether it’s the majestic Leeds Castle, the historic Warwick Castle, the luxurious Bovey Castle, the grand Dunrobin Castle, the sprawling Alnwick Castle, the intriguing Hever Castle, or the charming Chilham Castle, each provides a unique backdrop for these magnificent birds of prey to soar and dive.
In essence, these falconry displays and experiences offer a unique glimpse into the past, bringing to life a tradition that dates back centuries. So, whether you’re a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or a lover of wildlife, make sure to include these castles in your England itinerary. Witnessing the grace and strength of a bird of prey in flight within the walls of these historic sites is an experience you’ll cherish forever.
