Bid Team member Tom Morath with African Fish-Eagle
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Hawk Conservancy Trust

4.9
·4k reviews·, United Kingdom

Home to 150 birds of prey, offering stunning flying displays and vital conservation work in 22 acres of woodland.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
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Bid Team member Tom Morath with African Fish-Eagle

Hawk Conservancy Trust

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to 150 birds of prey, offering stunning flying displays and vital conservation work in 22 acres of woodland.

4.9
(4k reviews)

"An unforgettable experience with passionate staff and spectacular flying displays that support vital conservation."

Vertical photo
TIP

☔ Bring an Umbrella!

Don't let a little rain stop you; there's plenty of cover. Staff knowledge is a highlight!

📸 Capture the Magic

Great opportunities for bird photography, especially during flying displays.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wings of Africa Flying Display

Wings of Africa Flying Display

Main Flying Arena

Witness Angola the Secretary Bird stomp rubber snakes and other magnificent birds soar.

Woodland Owl Experience

Woodland Owl Experience

Woodland Aviaries

A magical encounter with owls gliding through a tranquil woodland setting.

Meet the Harris Hawks

Meet the Harris Hawks

Aviaries and Flying Displays

Discover these unique 'wolves of the sky' known for their pack hunting.

Vulture Conservation Talks

Vulture Conservation Talks

Aviaries and Information Points

Learn about the critical conservation efforts for the world's most endangered vultures.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To avoid crowds and get the best viewing experience, aim for weekdays, especially outside of school holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer more intimate encounters with the birds and staff.

Support Conservation Efforts

The Hawk Conservancy Trust relies on visitor support. Consider purchasing a membership or making a donation to aid their vital conservation work, particularly for endangered species like vultures.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photography
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon flying displays
Why
See birds in action
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A sssssuper #FridayFact coming at you from Bird Team member Ben and our amazing Secretary Bird, Angola! 🐍🦎 #secretarybird #birdsofprey #bird #birdtok #birdsoftiktok #animalsoftiktok #hawkconservancytrust #hampshire
@hawkconservancytrust
1.6M likes • 14.2M views

☔ Bring an Umbrella!

Don't let a little rain stop you; there's plenty of cover. Staff knowledge is a highlight! Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Great opportunities for bird photography, especially during flying displays. Instagram

Angola the Secretary Bird is BACK on the flying team for the summer season, with more snake-stomping action! 🐍🦵 Come and see Angola in our famous Wings of Africa flying display every day until November 🧡 #secretarybird #birdsofprey #bird #birdsoftiktok #birdtok #hawkconservancytrust #hampshire #zoo
@hawkconservancytrust
790.2K likes • 10.7M views
#hawkconservancytrust ❤️ wow so many pictures and not enough space. Thanks to the team at The Hawk Conservancy Trust in UK for letting me be part of their team and help out in the bird shows I had the best time ❤️🙌
hunter.tara
38 likes • 443 views

🤝 Support Their Work

Consider membership or donations to aid vital conservation efforts. Reddit

🦉 Unique Owl Encounters

The Woodland Owl Experience is unforgettable, with staff expertise shining through. Reddit

[AD - Press Trip] Take me back to @hawkconservancy! We had such a nice day there on Sunday, somewhere we had seen the signs for on the A303 so many times but never stopped off at! We learnt so much about birds of prey, the plight of vultures in the wild and the conservation work the Hawk Conservancy Trust are doing to grow their numbers again. Plus, we got to see so many glorious birds doing what...
genuineplacebo84
0 likes • 723 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☔ Bring an Umbrella!

Don't let a little rain stop you; there's plenty of cover. Staff knowledge is a highlight! Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Great opportunities for bird photography, especially during flying displays. Instagram

🤝 Support Their Work

Consider membership or donations to aid vital conservation efforts. Reddit

🦉 Unique Owl Encounters

The Woodland Owl Experience is unforgettable, with staff expertise shining through. Reddit

🦅 See Birds in Action

Flying demonstrations are more impressive than static enclosures; see birds soar! Reddit

🚗 Easy to Find

Located just off the A303, it's a convenient stop for a day out. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hawk Conservancy Trust for its dedicated and knowledgeable staff, who are passionate about birds of prey and conservation. The flying displays are a major highlight, offering an impressive spectacle of multiple birds in action. While experiences can be pricey, many feel they are well worth the cost for the unforgettable encounters and the support provided to conservation efforts.

"An amazing place to visit. Had an experience day here with the Owl's, was a bit wet but that doesn't actually matter if I'm honest as there is plenty of cover around the park, just bring a brolly and you wouldn't care. Staff are so dedicated and full of knowledge they help make it a seriously enjoyable visit and the afternoon 1400 show had around 15 - 20 birds flying all around us at the same time rather than other places where it's just a single which just made for an amazing viewing opportunity. The trust needs our support for the great work they do some come rain or shine, summer or winter get along and enjoy a great day out."

lee bichard

"An unforgettable experience!

We had the absolute delight of visiting the Hawk Conservancy yesterday, and what an incredible experience it was from start to finish. The staff are truly outstanding — so knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly devoted to the care and wellbeing of the birds.

The Woodland Owl Experience completely wowed us. The combination of the tranquil woodland setting, the beautiful music, and the owls gliding out one by one created such a magical atmosphere. It’s an experience I will never forget.

A special highlight for us was watching Gavin the Raven take to the skies — especially knowing it was only his second time flying in the meadow. It was such a beautiful and heartwarming moment to witness.

My partner and I loved our visit so much that we’re now seriously considering becoming members to help support this exceptional conservancy.

Thank you to everyone at the Hawk Conservancy for such a memorable day — we can’t wait to return!"

Samantha Daly

"Owl 🦉 Experience Review:
Just WOW! 🤩 As a bird lover, I was always going to love this experience, but it exceeded my expectations. 😲 The professionalism, knowledge and expertise of the staff AND volunteers is incredible. As a group of 6, we met and flew 6 birds, who were all amazing and fascinating in their own way. Seeing their different personalities was so interesting too. These experiences are of course not cheap and are a real treat [birthday vouchers for my Dad in out case] but my goodness it was worth it.
In addition, clean facilities, lovely restaurant and shop.
Amazing experience and day out! Thank you 💖"

Sian Brown

What People Like

Passionate and knowledgeable staff
Spectacular flying displays
Unique bird experiences

What People Dislike

Experiences can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hawk Conservancy Trust is conveniently located just off the A303, making it easily accessible by car. Ample parking is available on-site. For public transport options, check local bus routes from nearby towns like Andover. Instagram

Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the Hawk Conservancy Trust. Reddit

While driving is the most common way to reach the Trust, you can explore local bus services from Andover to get close. It's advisable to check the latest schedules for public transport options. Reddit

The Trust is typically open daily, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially during seasonal changes or holidays. Reddit

Absolutely! A day trip to the Hawk Conservancy Trust is highly recommended. You can easily spend several hours exploring the grounds, watching flying displays, and learning about the birds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Hawk Conservancy Trust website for the most current admission fees. Booking in advance might sometimes offer discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Reddit

The Hawk Conservancy Trust offers various special experiences, such as the Woodland Owl Experience and opportunities to fly birds of prey. These are often booked in advance and are a significant highlight for many visitors. Reddit+1

Flying displays are usually included with general admission and do not require separate booking. However, arriving a little early for popular displays is advisable to get a good spot. Reddit

Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions on the Hawk Conservancy Trust's website when purchasing your tickets, especially if you are concerned about weather-related cancellations. Reddit

🎫 🦅 Onsite Experience

The main attractions include spectacular flying displays like the 'Wings of Africa,' aviaries housing a diverse range of birds of prey, and educational talks about conservation. TikTokInstagramReddit

You can see a wide variety of birds of prey, including Secretary Birds, Harris Hawks, eagles, vultures, owls, falcons, and more, representing species from around the globe. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, the flying displays are highly engaging and suitable for all ages, offering a thrilling and educational experience for families. Instagram

Wander through the aviaries and woodland trails to see birds in their enclosures, and then time your visit to catch the various flying displays throughout the day for a dynamic viewing experience. Reddit

Yes, maps are typically available at the entrance or visitor center to help you navigate the 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe or restaurant on-site offering refreshments and meals. Visitors can enjoy a bite to eat while taking a break from exploring. Reddit

Picnic areas are often available, allowing visitors to bring their own food. It's a great option for families or those looking for a more budget-friendly meal. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a range of options, including light snacks, sandwiches, hot meals, and drinks, catering to various tastes. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most on-site cafes aim to provide a selection of vegetarian and sometimes vegan options. It's worth checking the menu on the day of your visit. Reddit

Yes, there is usually a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, gifts, and items related to birds of prey and conservation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. Flying displays offer dynamic shots, but be prepared for fast-moving subjects. TikTokInstagram

Tripods are generally allowed, but it's advisable to check the specific rules on their website or at the entrance, especially during busy periods to avoid obstructing pathways. Instagram

Yes, the aviaries are designed to allow good viewing distances, and flying displays bring birds very close. Special experiences might offer even closer opportunities. InstagramReddit

A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is highly recommended for capturing details of birds in flight or at a distance. A wider lens can be useful for landscape shots of the grounds. Instagram

Keep an eye on the Hawk Conservancy Trust's events calendar. They occasionally host photography workshops or special events that might be of interest to photographers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a fantastic family day out. The flying displays are captivating for all ages, with birds soaring overhead and engaging handlers. Instagram Kids will love seeing the different species up close in the aviaries and learning fun facts about them. The Woodland Owl Experience is particularly magical for younger visitors. Remember to bring rain gear, as suggested by visitors, as there's plenty of cover. Reddit

❤️ Couples and Nature Lovers

For couples seeking a unique and memorable experience, the Hawk Conservancy Trust offers a blend of natural beauty and fascinating wildlife. The tranquil woodland setting and the awe-inspiring sight of birds of prey in flight create a romantic and engaging atmosphere. Consider booking a special experience, like the Owl Experience, for an even more intimate encounter. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Falconry and Bird Handling

The Hawk Conservancy Trust is not just a place to see birds of prey; it's a center dedicated to the practice and understanding of falconry. Falconry is an ancient art of hunting with trained birds of prey. The handlers at the Trust are highly skilled professionals who have a deep understanding of raptor behavior and training techniques. They work closely with each bird, building trust and a strong bond, which is essential for successful flying displays and conservation efforts. TikTokInstagram

Conservation: Saving Vultures and Other Raptors

A significant focus of the Hawk Conservancy Trust is the conservation of birds of prey, particularly vultures, which are among the most endangered species globally. Visitors learn about the threats these magnificent birds face, such as poisoning and habitat loss, and the crucial work the Trust undertakes in breeding programs and rehabilitation. InstagramReddit+2 By visiting, you directly contribute to these vital efforts, helping to protect these essential scavengers and maintain ecological balance. Instagram

Understanding Raptor Behavior

The Trust provides incredible opportunities to observe and learn about the diverse behaviors of raptors. For instance, Harris Hawks are known as 'wolves of the sky' because they hunt cooperatively in packs, a stark contrast to most raptors that hunt alone. TikTok+1 Witnessing these behaviors during flying displays or through educational talks offers a unique insight into the intelligence and adaptability of these birds. TikTokReddit

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