Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre
Step into a 1400s farmstead with magnificent owls & birds of prey. Experience unique flying encounters & historic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a 1400s farmstead with magnificent owls & birds of prey. Experience unique flying encounters & historic charm.
"Magical visit, owls were beautiful, and to see them so close was something special."
🎯 Book Experiences Early
Owl flying and hawk experiences are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
🦉 Get Close to Owls
The Owl Garden offers incredible opportunities to see owls up close. Don't miss this chance to admire their beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Owl Garden Encounters
Owl Garden
Marvel at a diverse collection of owls, from majestic barn owls to striking shoebills. Get up close and personal with these fascinating nocturnal hunters.
Birds of Prey Flying Experience
Private Barns
Experience the thrill of flying owls, kestrels, buzzards, and Harris Hawks under expert guidance. A truly unforgettable interaction.
Historic Farmstead Ambiance
The Farm
Step back in time at this 600-year-old farmstead, offering a unique and characterful atmosphere that enhances your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Bird Experience in Advance
Embrace the Historic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Experiences Early
Owl flying and hawk experiences are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
🦉 Get Close to Owls
The Owl Garden offers incredible opportunities to see owls up close. Don't miss this chance to admire their beauty.
🐴 Meet the Horses
Don't forget to visit the stables and meet the horses. A lovely addition to the bird encounters.
☕ Enjoy Cream Tea
After your bird encounters, relax with a delicious cream tea. A perfect way to end your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Experiences Early
Owl flying and hawk experiences are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
🦉 Get Close to Owls
The Owl Garden offers incredible opportunities to see owls up close. Don't miss this chance to admire their beauty.
🐴 Meet the Horses
Don't forget to visit the stables and meet the horses. A lovely addition to the bird encounters.
☕ Enjoy Cream Tea
After your bird encounters, relax with a delicious cream tea. A perfect way to end your visit.
🗣️ Engage with Hosts
The hosts are knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions to learn more about the birds and the centre's history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique charm of the 1400s farmstead and the incredible opportunities to see owls and birds of prey up close. The flying experiences are a highlight, offering an unforgettable interaction. The hosts are praised for their knowledge and passion, though some found one presenter a bit rude. The B&B and tearoom also receive positive mentions.
"Can’t recommend more to go there and spend a day or two in the farm. The place is so unique abs with a character!
The house dates somewhat 600 years old and has absolutely special vibe. We stayed at Foxden room with private bathroom and we’re very pleased with our stay. The room is lovely, all perfectly clean.
We had hawks and owl experience, owls are so magnificent! It worth to see them all in the Owl Garden.
We were touched by Cathy’s warm welcome and attention, and also by her Inspirational Barn with the story of her life and how she created the place as it is now.
For riders there are horses, we only shorted saw them in the stables which was also a great experience. All are different and beautiful.
And great breakfast too! Very much recommend!"
Anna Petrenko
"Whilst staying in Minehead for a holiday, we booked to do an hours private owl flying experience at Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre.
We started off by being invited to visit all of the birds they keep at the centre in their own enclosures (they have around 30+!).
We were then taken into a private barn where we got to fly three birds each, and learnt loads of new facts about them and how they behave in the wild.
It was a really brilliant experience and something you don’t get to normally do when visiting bird centres. The experience leader was really friendly and very informative.
We then we’re invited over to the stables to meet the horses and a lovely lady who who worked there told us all about them and let us meet them up close.
100% would recommend to anyone who loves birds and wants to try something a bit different!"
Emily Kapllani
"Had such a magical visit this afternoon. The owls were beautiful, and to see them so close and watch them fly was something special. The host was very knowledgable and we found all the insights into the different species so interesting. Brilliant way to round off our holiday in Exmoor!"
Gemma Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The centre is located in Exmoor. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with ample parking available. Check their website for specific directions from your starting point.
Public transport options to this rural location can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider a taxi service if you are not driving.
There is parking available at the centre, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While challenging, it's possible with careful planning. Research local taxi services or consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions if using public transport.
The historic nature of the farmstead may present some challenges. It's best to contact the centre directly to inquire about accessibility for specific areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre website for the most up-to-date pricing for general entry and special experiences.
For general admission, it might be possible to pay on arrival, but for specific experiences like owl flying, booking in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out.
General admission typically grants access to the grounds and the Owl Garden. Special experiences, such as bird flying, usually require separate booking and payment.
Information on discounts for groups, children, or concessions is usually available on their website. It's worth checking for any special offers.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most current opening times before planning your visit.
🎫 🦉 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of owls, including barn owls and shoebills, as well as birds of prey like kestrels, buzzards, and Harris Hawks.
Yes, the centre offers fantastic opportunities for interaction, including private owl flying experiences where you can fly birds yourself.
Yes, the centre also offers horseback riding. You can meet the horses in the stables and learn about them.
The Inspirational Barn shares the story of Cathy's life and how she established the centre, offering a personal and touching insight into its creation.
Yes, children often enjoy the close encounters with the birds and the unique farm atmosphere. Supervised interaction is key.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a tearoom that provides cream tea and other refreshments, perfect for a break during your visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to check with the venue if outside food is permitted, especially if you have specific dietary needs.
The tearoom is known for serving cream tea, which is a popular choice for visitors looking for a traditional treat.
It's advisable to inquire directly with the tearoom about their menu options to confirm availability of vegetarian or vegan choices.
If you are staying in the B&B rooms, a great breakfast is typically included as part of your stay.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, allowing you to capture stunning shots of the birds and the historic farm.
The Owl Garden provides excellent opportunities for close-up shots. The flying experiences also offer dynamic photo moments.
It's always best to check with staff on-site regarding flash photography, as it can disturb the birds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at wildlife centres to avoid disturbing the animals. Confirm with the venue if you plan to use a drone.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing birds in flight or at a distance, while a standard lens works well for close-ups in the Owl Garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a bird flying experience for an extra special treat. Under expert supervision, children can learn how to fly a bird, creating unforgettable memories. The historic farm setting also adds an element of adventure, making the entire visit an engaging educational experience. Don't forget to visit the stables to meet the horses too!
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
An owl flying experience or a leisurely afternoon tea can be a wonderfully intimate activity. The knowledgeable and friendly hosts add a personal touch, making your visit feel special. It's a perfect blend of nature, history, and unique animal encounters for a romantic getaway.
✈️ Day-Trippers
To make the most of your visit, consider booking a flying experience in advance. This will add a truly memorable activity to your day. Afterwards, relax with a cream tea at the tearoom before continuing your exploration of Exmoor.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birds of Prey: More Than Just Owls
Experiences such as the private owl flying sessions allow guests to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Under the careful supervision of experienced handlers, you can learn how to call and fly a bird, experiencing the thrill of seeing them respond to your cues. This hands-on approach provides a deeper appreciation for the agility and intelligence of these raptors. The centre emphasizes the importance of conservation and educates visitors on the challenges these birds face in the wild.
For those particularly interested in the more exotic, the mention of a shoebill in TikTok videos hints at a truly unique avian encounter. These prehistoric-looking birds with their massive bills are a rare sight and a testament to the diverse collection at the centre. Seeing such a creature up close is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into a world of ancient-looking wildlife.
A Glimpse into 1400s Farmstead Life
Staying in the B&B rooms, such as the 'Foxden room', offers an immersive experience. These rooms are described as 'lovely' and 'perfectly clean', providing comfortable accommodation within the historic farm. Waking up in such an old building adds a unique dimension to the stay, blending historical charm with modern comfort.
Cathy's 'Inspirational Barn' is a significant part of the experience, sharing her personal story and the journey of creating the centre. This narrative adds a human element to the visit, highlighting the passion and dedication behind the Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre. It's a touching insight into how the place came to be, making the visit more meaningful.
Beyond the Birds: Horseback Riding and Stables
A lovely lady who works at the stables often shares information about the horses, allowing visitors to meet them up close. This adds another layer to the centre's offerings, catering to animal lovers of all kinds. It's a chance to appreciate these noble creatures and learn a bit about their care and personalities.
For those who enjoy riding, the centre provides horseback riding opportunities. This can be a fantastic way to explore the surrounding Exmoor landscape, combining the joy of interacting with animals with the beauty of the countryside. It's a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just birdwatching.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit