Enjoy half and full day falconry courses in Gloucestershire led by expert falconer Ben Long. Ben's fascination with birds of prey started in the early 1970s and since then he has become one of the leading falconry experts in the country. Ben loves to impart his in-depth knowledge of raptors and the sport of falconry, so you'll learn lots on these informative and fun falconry courses.

Just five minutes' drive from J12 of the M5 finds you deep in the Gloucestershire countryside on a large estate near Hardwicke. From here, Ben will guide you around the 'weathered' birds - that's to say the birds are tethered to their perches outdoors, where you'll learn about the history and background to each of the species presented.

Then it's your turn to handle and fly these domestically bred, but still wild at heart birds of prey, including the world's fastest creature the Peregrine Falcon - a rare privilege indeed. You will also be treated to assisting with birds being flown from swinging lures and from lures suspended hundreds of feet in the air, tethered to kites or balloons. Those choosing the full day falconry course will benefit from extra time flying the birds and a lunch included in the price.

Ben doesn't open up his collection to the general public, so these small and intimate group falconry courses in Gloucestershire are the best way to get up close and actually be able to handle all types of raptors with a true falconry expert.

Half day falconry experiences last approximately 3 hours, full days last approximately 6 hours. You may form part of a group of up to 6 other participants. Both experiences include an introduction to the history of the sport and the different species of birds from an expert falconer, as well as lots of time handling and flying the birds. Participants will receive a certificate and photo as a memento of their day. On full days as well as learning more detailed information about handling birds of prey you will also enjoy additional time flying the birds including Peregrine Falcons and Harris Hawks. Lunch is included on full days. Please visit the main falconry section for information on larger falconry groups or even 1-1 falconry days.


Experiences are available on selected weekdays and weekends throughout the year. Half days run from 1pm to 4pm and full days from 10am to 4pm. Sessions are exclusive and not open to the general public.


This private falconry centre is located on a country estate in Hardwicke, Gloucestershire with easy access from the M5, J12.


There is no minimum age however under 14’s must be accompanied by an adult. (Spectator fees apply).


Spectators are welcome to attend with a fee of £9 for half days and £15 for full days (lunch included) payable on the day. There are toilets on site as well a classroom providing falconry items of interest, educational dvds, tea/coffee and a lunch area.