Cotswold Falconry Centre at Batsford
Perched on the edge of Batsford Park just a short walk from Bourton-on-the-Hill, the Cotswold Falconry Centre is one of the UK's leading birds-of-prey centres — and a daily flying display here is genuinely thrilling, not just a tourist tick-box.
More Than 50 Species in Flight
Founded in 1988 with a focus on conservation and breeding, the centre is now home to over 50 species including owls, eagles, vultures, hawks and falcons — among them several endangered breeds you are unlikely to encounter anywhere else in Britain.
Daily flying displays showcase each bird's natural hunting behaviour against an open Cotswold sky, with knowledgeable handlers explaining the centuries-old art of falconry throughout. Arrive a few minutes early to claim a front-row spot on the grass.
Hands-On Falconry Experiences
Beyond the displays, the centre offers pre-bookable hands-on experiences: get up close to their owls or, for the real thrill, try flying a hawk yourself under expert supervision. These sessions sell out, so book ahead via the centre's website.
The centre sits right next door to Batsford Arboretum, making it easy to combine both into a single morning — coffee and cake at the arboretum café, then birds-of-prey displays before lunch.
Cotswold Falconry Centre at Batsford on video
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