Name: Hawk Conservancy Trust
Rating: 5.0

Hawk Conservancy Trust

Visitor Centre, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY, England

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

Hawk Conservancy Trust Bird of Prey Centre is a world-class choice. Set within 22 acres of stunning woodland and wildflower meadows, this conservation charity provides an immersive wildlife experience where families can see over 150 birds of prey. It is a fantastic destination for parents wanting an educational day out that gets children up close to nature in a beautiful, well-maintained setting.

Standard daily tickets priced at £23.50 for adults, £17.65 for children (aged 4-15) and Children under 4 are admitted free of charge. Memberships are available for frequent visitors, and online booking in advance is strongly recommended to ensure availability.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines breath-taking flying displays with conservation education, this centre is a premier option. It offers a balanced environment where children can enjoy outdoor play areas and interactive activities while adults appreciate the peaceful surroundings and expert animal care.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

World-Class Flying Displays: Experience multiple daily shows featuring spectacular birds of prey in free flight.
Conservation Education: Learn about global raptor conservation through expert-led talks and displays.
Woodland Play Area: A dedicated space for children to burn off energy between flying demonstrations.
Interactive Keeper Talks: Hands-on opportunities to speak with bird keepers about raptor behaviour, anatomy, and care.

Top 5 Highlights

The Savannah Arena Flying Display: Witness vultures and eagles soaring across the open Savannah Arena. It is a thrilling way for children to see these massive birds flying at close range.
The Valley of the Eagles: This iconic display allows visitors to watch eagles take to the skies against a beautiful backdrop. It is often the highlight of the day for families, combining power and grace in a single show.
The Owl Display: Learn about these nocturnal hunters in a dedicated show that is perfect for younger visitors. The quiet, graceful nature of owls makes this a firm family favourite.
Raptor Hospital Tour: Gain insight into the vital conservation and rehabilitation work happening on-site. It is a moving experience that teaches children the importance of wildlife protection.
The Woodland Walk: Take a gentle stroll through the 22 acres of meadows and trees. It provides a peaceful break from the activity and a chance to spot local forest life in its natural habitat.

Facilities

Toilets: Fully accessible toilets, including baby-changing facilities, are available on-site.
Accessibility: The majority of the site is wheelchair accessible, including main pathways, arenas, and the restaurant.
Buggy Parking: Designated areas are available to leave buggies during flying displays.
Food Options: Feathers Restaurant offers a variety of hot and cold options, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices clearly marked.

Pro-Tips

Arrive Early: The site opens at 10:00 AM; arriving then ensures you can catch the first morning talks and secure a prime spot in the arenas.
Check the Schedule: Flying displays run at specific times throughout the day, so pick up a timetable at the entrance upon arrival.
Dress for the Weather: As flying displays are outdoors, bring layers, sunscreen, or waterproofs depending on the British weather.

Targeted FAQ

Is Hawk Conservancy Trust worth it for toddlers? Yes, it is excellent for toddlers, as the combination of open meadows to run in, engaging bird shows, and a dedicated play area makes for a stimulating visit that is physically accessible.
How long does a visit take? Families typically spend between 4 and 6 hours here, allowing ample time to enjoy all the daily flying displays, lunch at the restaurant, and a walk around the meadows.
Where is the best place to park? The Trust provides a large, free on-site car park right at the main entrance, which is the most convenient place to park for your visit.

What to see

Beyond the Main Attraction

Feathers Restaurant: On-site dining offering hot meals, snacks, and locally sourced food.
Woodland Play Park: A secure outdoor area designed for kids to climb, jump, and play.
Gift Shop: Features bird-themed toys, educational materials, and conservation-related products.
Conservation Trails: Marked paths through the wildflower meadows and forest areas.

What Visitors Love:

The quality and closeness of the flying displays are genuinely unmatched.
The site feels safe and manageable for families, even with younger children.
Staff are consistently described as knowledgeable, passionate, and great with children.
The natural environment is kept to a high standard, making it a pleasant day out for all ages.

What Visitors Don't Like:

Displays are entirely weather-dependent and may change at short notice.
Dining areas can get very busy during peak school holiday periods.
Some visitors find the walking distance between arenas quite large for smaller children, though the paths are flat.

Attractions & Live Shows

Savannah Arena Flying Display: High-energy demonstration of vultures and raptors.
Valley of the Eagles Display: Showcase of large eagles in spectacular flight.
Wings of Africa Display: An educational show highlighting raptors from the African continent.
Meet the Keepers Sessions: Daily talks focused on specific bird species and conservation status.
The Owl Display: Gentle, informative show featuring various owl species.
Daily Feeding Sessions: Interactive viewing of raptors at mealtime.

New for 2026

Enhanced Raptor Rehabilitation Hub: Newly updated visitor viewing points for the hospital area to see care in action.
Interactive Conservation App: A new digital trail for kids to track birds and earn virtual badges during their walk.
Expanded Viewing Platforms: Additional seating and improved views in the main arenas to accommodate busy peak days.
Sustainable Picnic Zones: Revitalized outdoor eating areas with increased seating capacity and improved accessibility.

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Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Adult: £23.50.
Children (under 4 years): FREE.
Children (4–15 years): £17.65.
Student: £21.50.
Senior (60+ years): £22.45.

Pricing URL: https://www.hawk-conservancy.org/your-visit/prices/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

Information: The trust offers specific experiences for group visits and can accommodate private birthday enquiries. For details on bespoke packages or group rates, contact the team at [email protected] or call 01264 773850.

Summer Season (28 March–1 November 2026): Open daily, 10am–5:30pm. Last admission at 4:30pm.
Winter Season (14 February–27 March 2026): Open daily, 10am–4:30pm. Last admission at 3:30pm.
Closures: 16 November–11 December 2026, 25–26 December 2026, and 5 January–12 February 2027.
Weather: The centre may close or modify activities if weather conditions are unsafe.

Address: Visitor Centre, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY, England

Post Code: SP11 8DY

Council: Test Valley

County: Hampshire

By public transport: The nearest train stations are Grateley Village (4.5 miles) or Andover Town (4.2 miles). The nearest major bus station is in Andover (4.7 miles).
By Car: We are situated four miles west of Andover, Hampshire, just off the A303 and 20 minutes from Stonehenge. From the A303, follow the brown tourist signs. We offer ample free parking and have designated disabled parking close to the entrance of the park.
Parking: Free on-site parking is available for all visitors.