Have you always wanted to handle a bird but haven’t been sure where to start? With a leisurely stroll through the Risley woodland in Derbyshire accompanied by an experienced falconer, Ben Breward, you will be introduced to glorious Harris Hawks and other raptors kept at this garden centre. Along the way, Ben is bound to tell you about what it’s like to be a falconer and how he has trained these birds. You will soon learn his tricks of the trade as you handle the birds and fly them to your glove. Nothing ever prepares you for the first time one of these birds lands on your glove, and you’ll definitely be surprised by the sensation as you take in the birds up close. Harris Hawks are known for their brown and red feathers and you’ll no doubt be swept away by them as you notice all their beautiful features. However, they might not stay on your hand for long as they are constantly scrounging for potential prey and flying up to high tree branches. It’s safe to say, if you’ve ever been curious about these alluring creatures this is the ideal experience to start with as you’ll be eased into the birds of prey world one step at a time. This centre is ideally located a short distance away from the A52 and M1 and boasts a popular coffee shop, garden centre and petting zoo, so why not make a day of it as you escape with nature.
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Overview
- Falconry at Risley Garden Centre, Derbys
- Learn from experienced host Ben Breward
- Witness hunting & flying with raptors
- Go on a Hawk Walk around the farm centre
What's Included
- Plenty of opportunities to handle and fly the birds from the glove under the guidance of an expert falconer
- You will form part of a group of up to 8 participants
- Get up close and personal with a team of Harris Hawks
- Take a leisurely walk around the Derbyshire countryside
- Handle and learn about the birds, flying them to the glove
- Sessions last one hour
Suitable For
- Under 16s must be accompanied by a participating adult
Anything Else
- Spectators are welcome to attend with a fee of £10 per person
- Suitable outdoors clothing and good strong boots (wellingtons in the winter) are recommended at all times
- On-site there is a coffee shop, garden centre, toilets and a Petting Zoo
Restrictions
Minimum Age: 7 years
Availability
- Available on selected weekends between March and December
- Sessions are generally available from 11:00
Location:
- Derbyshire Risley
- 8 miles east of Derby with easy access from the M1, J25
How the Voucher Works
- Purchase the voucher online
- Receive your e-voucher or gift pack
- Redeem online to select location and date
- Enjoy your experience
