WELCOME TO THE HAWK CONSERVANCY TRUST
Your visit is important to us
We hope that your visit will be inspiring and educational, as you learn more about birds of prey and their place in the environment.
As a registered conservation charity, your visit today helps us continue our mission to conserve birds of prey and their habitats, as well as continuing to care for the amazing birds that you’ll see with us today. You are also supporting our projects in the UK and overseas that focus on:
• Conservation – of birds of prey and their habitats
• Education – to raise public awareness and interest
• Research – into bird of prey biology
• Rehabilitation – by caring for sick, injured or orphaned birds of prey
Visit us and feel better
Spending time in nature is proven to enhance our emotional and physical wellbeing. Our 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadow, set in the beautiful Hampshire countryside and surrounded by our incredible birds, is the perfect place to embrace the restorative power nature has to offer.
You can help
Chris Packham CBE Trust President
Chris first visited the Trust in 1975 where he met the Trust’s founder, Reg Smith. A mutual understanding of one another and a shared passion for birds of prey and wildlife sparked a life-long friendship. Chris continued to visit the Trust throughout his teens and, to this day, it remains his favourite bird of prey centre.
There are many ways you can support our work. Simply by buying a coffee in Feathers Restaurant or purchasing a souvenir in our Trust shop, you’re supporting our conservation efforts for birds of prey in the UK and overseas. Why not visit us again and again by becoming a member, or join us for an evening out, supporting our work at one of our fundraising events? You could even spend a day getting close to our birds on an experience session!
If you have enjoyed your day with us and would like to share your experience or keep in touch, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter Owl Message, or follow us on social media (see inside back cover for more details).
sign up here
Please consider paying the donation price because if you are a UK taxpayer and willing to Gift Aid, we can reclaim 25p from HMRC for every £1 paid. This will help us work to conserve more birds of prey.
A FANTASTIC DAY OUT
3:45PM
Explore our beautiful surroundings, watch world-class flying displays and see our majestic birds of prey. Along the way, you will learn more about each species and our efforts to conserve them. Activities, attractions and things to see include:
• Meet the Burrowers VIP Encounter†
• ‘A Vulture Voyage’ activity trail
• Seven acre chalk downland wildflower meadow
• Bird of prey themed playground
• Brilliant Bird Brains talk
• Tractor rides*
• Nifty Nest Builders
• Tree Trail for all ages
See today’s timetable of activities on the patio outside the Trust shop.
† In addition to day admission fee * Weekends and school holidays only
Make your visit extra special with this exciting encounter! Join our team of Burrowing Owls in the ’burrow’ where they will fly, hover, walk and run around you. They may even use you as a perch! Ask in our shop for details.
Subject to availability. In addition to day admission fee.
Facilities
Reception and Trust shop
A warm welcome and information awaits, plus a wide range of quality gifts and souvenirs to suit all budgets, including our very own exclusive line of clothing and soft toys. You can purchase flying experience sessions, event tickets and vouchers from the shop, too.
Fully Accessible
The Trust is fully accessible. Manual wheelchairs are available on free loan. There are flat tarmac paths, plenty of seats for rest, and areas reserved for wheelchair users in our display arenas. Adapted toilets are located in Feathers Restaurant.
We would like to advise visitors that we have a natural countryside setting, and sensible footwear and appropriate clothing for outdoors are recommended. Most walkways are laid paths, but you may find some natural unevenness underfoot.
Feathers Restaurant
Feathers Restaurant is a perfect refreshment stop whether you’re visiting for the day or simply passing by. Choose from a coffee of your choice and a slice of delicious cake to a hearty hot meal. Using locally sourced ingredients where possible, enjoy a spot of breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea while taking in the stunning views of our woodlands.
We use a variety of ingredients in our kitchen and cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
Afternoon Tea
Add a touch of luxury to your next visit with a delicious afternoon tea! With or without a day admission ticket, enjoy a delicious Cream Tea, indulge in a full Afternoon Tea or, for a real treat, go all out with a Premium Afternoon Tea.
Available at 2:45pm and must be booked at least one day in advance. Call 01264 773 850 or email info@hawkconservancy.org.
Subject to availability.
During the summer months, stop by our Shepherd’s Hut at Reg’s Wildflower Meadow for an ice cream!
Become a Member
As a member, you can enjoy unlimited visits to the Trust, as well as additional benefits, depending on the type of membership you choose! You’ll also be supporting our charitable conservation and research work.
UNLIMITED VISITS
Unlimited visits*
Restricted visits excludes weekends, school and bank holidays
Annual exclusive Member Event
Advance notice to book some events
Invitation to join 100 Club
HawkTalk magazine Owl Message e-newsletter
Annual Review
ADVANCE NOTICE TO BOOK SOME EVENTS
HAWKTALK MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVE MEMBERS’ EVENTS
Join today and we’ll deduct your admission fee † Keep hold of your receipt!
Exclusive pin badge
Plaque on board
* Subject to availability and opening hours and membership type chosen. † Offer only applies on day of visit.
BRITISH RAPTORS
BRITISH RAPTORS
We’re working on multiple projects to support British birds of prey, including:
Donate
Birds of prey face varied, multiple and continued threats. We work to conserve them both in the UK and overseas every day and you can help too.
You can choose the amount you wish to donate, and designate the funds to our conservation work, or to one of these four programmes:
OVERSEAS RAPTORS
Raptor Nest Box Project
We have donation boxes around our site or go to our website.
HOSPITAL AND REHABILITATION
EDUCATION
We work to conserve the four species of British birds of prey that nest mainly in cavities like tree hollows or old buildings – Barn Owl, Kestrel, Tawny Owl and Little Owl. This project provides nest boxes in suitable areas of habitat, which gives the birds a place to nest and us a valuable insight into the lives of these species and how we can conserve them. Since starting with just 38 nest boxes in 2008, there are now over 1,500 across southern England.
Helping stop Kestrel declines
The UK Kestrel population is ‘Amber’ listed as a species of concern. While the population is stable in parts of the UK, in other areas it has declined considerably since the 1990s for reasons that are not entirely known.
Our project is investigating the distribution, foraging movements and survival of Kestrels in southern England, with new methods to be used in 2025; it also aims to assess how the population responds to the installation of additional nest sites (in the form of nest boxes).
OVERSEAS RAPTORS
Vultures are the most threatened birds in the world – many populations are under pressure and some species are facing the very real threat of extinction. Vultures are also dedicated parents, social and gregarious, extremely fussy about being clean (after eating) and extraordinarily graceful on the wing.
The main overseas projects for the Hawk Conservancy Trust are those associated with the International Vulture Programme (IVP). Populations of this ecologically important group of birds face continued threats from problems such as poisoning, unsustainable harvesting for the wildlife trade and habitat loss.
One of our key projects in the IVP is our work firefighting the vulture poisoning crisis. This is a huge threat to vultures in southern Africa and is killing hundreds of vultures and other wildlife every year.
HOSPITAL & REHABILITATION
The Hawk Conservancy Trust’s National Bird of Prey Hospital™ can receive and treat more than 200 sick, injured or orphaned birds of prey each year. Due to the challenges presented by bird flu and changes in requirements to participate in European Breeding Programmes, we are working to develop a new hospital service. When we are able to receive and treat birds, they can be from both the public and other wildlife centres. After treatment, birds are moved into our rehabilitation wing, which plays a key part in giving recovering birds the best setting to regain their fitness before we release them back into the wild. Our hospital also acts as the base for our research projects that benefit wild, injured and rehabilitated birds. In addition, we have incubation facilities that support conservation breeding programmes, and our hospital is a training facility for organisations such as the RSPCA and the Royal Veterinary College.
EDUCATION
Education is fundamental to conservation. The more we inspire visitors about the work we do and the importance of conserving birds of prey, the greater chance we have of protecting these birds.
We strive to provide visitors and students of all ages with an experience that sparks people’s interests, and develops their knowledge about the habitats of these amazing animals, and their place in the natural world.
We are constantly updating our education resources to maintain alignment with the National Curriculum and the changing state of the natural world.
You can help us achieve this as we continue to educate the next generation of conservationists.
Find out more about our Conservation & Research
Owls by Moonlight Biodiversity Breakfast
SATURDAY 3 MAY
Join us for a special morning to enjoy and discover the best of British nature with Dr Matt Stevens, our British Projects Manager. Breakfast in Feathers Restaurant included!
FUNDRAISING EVENT
SELECTED EVENINGS IN SPRING AND AUTUMN
As night falls, experience our mystical owls as they fly silently through the darkness in two breathtaking flying displays.
SELECTED EVENINGS IN SUMMER
Spend an evening watching our feathered friends soar against a sunset sky, and meet the dedicated team working alongside them over two stunning flying displays.
SATURDAY 19 & SUNDAY 20 JULY, 10AM-5:30PM
We’re going wild! Join us for a festival of British nature, with extra activities and special guests over this summer weekend.
SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER
Come along and celebrate the wonderful world of vultures with a whole day of activities and flying displays dedicated to these wonderful birds and highlighting the threats they face.
FUNDRAISING EVENT
WEDNESDAY 29 & THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER
Prepare yourself and your little ones for a wickedly spook-tacular family evening with two spooky shows where owls fly!
FUNDRAISING EVENT
FUNDRAISING EVENT
FRIDAY 19 - MONDAY 22 DECEMBER
Sing along with Christmas carols under the night sky accompanied by band, choir and, of course, our beautiful owls in flight!
JANUARY 2026
An immersive journey into the magical world of owls, with dazzling illuminations and breathtaking owl flight to help you banish the winter blues!
EXPERIENCES
Birds of prey hold a great fascination for many people, and if you have the desire to get closer to and learn more about these majestic creatures, then why not try one of the following experiences? The majority of these sessions are limited to groups of up to six guests (aged 16 or over).
ALL OF OUR EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:
• Time with our passionate, knowledgeable and friendly team with a chance to ask any questions you have about our fascinating birds
• The opportunity to learn about our conservation, research and rehabilitation work
• Full instruction and use of equipment
• Refreshments
You can buy an experience as a gift with one of our gift vouchers!
Adult Experiences
A Day with Birds of Prey
Spend a day with our birds! On this full-day experience, our friendly team will introduce you to a wide range of the wonderful birds that call the Trust their home. You'll likely be able to fly some of our eagles, owls, hawks and vultures!
Bird of Prey Experience
This three-hour session will allow you to get closer to, learn more about, and fly some of the birds here at the Trust. Your session will include flying a range of species, which may include owls, hawks and vultures.
Owl Experience
Perfect for owl lovers – this three-hour session will give you the opportunity to get close to, and fly, several of our owl species. This could include a Tawny Owl, Great Grey Owl, Boobook Owl and more!
Beginning Falconry Award Course
In groups of up to twelve people offsite, the Hawk Conservancy Trust, in association with Amews Falconry, is offering a rewarding opportunity to achieve the nationally recognised Raptor Award qualification on a four-day course. Includes a day ticket to visit the Trust!
Children’s Experiences
Junior Bird Team Experience
Join us for a three-hour session, and discover what it’s like to be a member of our Bird Team! This experience is for children in year seven and above.
Children’s Owl Experience
Step aside Harry Potter! This is your chance to get close to, and experience the magic of our owls. For children aged 6-11.
Photography Experiences
Birds of prey make wonderful subjects for photography. We offer full-day and half-day Photographic Experiences on selected dates throughout the year that can cater for the professional as well as the enthusiastic amateur.
Photographic Workshop with Oliver Smart
Guided by expert photographer, Oliver Smart, you can improve key photography skills while learning more about our birds’ lifestyles and discover how to capture striking portrait and action shots!
CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS
WIN your very own one-to-one flying or photography experience
Have you taken any striking images of our beautiful residents or wild birds of prey? Enter your images into our annual competition for the chance to win a private, one-to-one experience at the Trust, tailored to your interests (you can fly or photograph our birds, or perhaps a mixture of both!)
Winning images will also be displayed in Feathers Restaurant and will be featured in our 2027 calendar.
The overall winner of the competition will be judged by Chris Packham CBE, an avid wildlife photographer.
Love our birds? Adopt a bird of prey
Adopting a bird of prey is a fun way to support our work, learn more about our birds, and help us to continue the conservation of birds of prey. Whether it is the cute owls, majestic eagles or fascinating vultures that have caught your attention, adopting one of our birds of prey is a perfect gift idea for all animal lovers.
Packages to suit all budgets! See adoption types below.
Secretary Bird
Burrowing Owl*
Peregrine Falcon
Snowy Owl
Functions and Parties
Special Occasions
From private functions to family occasions, there’s nothing like a party surrounded by birds of prey! Our enchanting woodland and wildflower meadow are a wonderful location, day or evening, for any celebration. It’s a special experience to be close to a bird of prey on your birthday or to combine a flying display with an anniversary.
Celebrate Christmas
Thinking of dining out this Christmas?
Celebrate the festive period with friends and family on an uplifting day out, accompanied by a sumptuous Christmas lunch or luxurious Christmas Afternoon Tea in Feathers Restaurant. We can also provide a fabulous venue for your company’s Christmas celebrations!
Corporate Events
Our peaceful and natural surroundings provide an inspirational location for all corporate events and functions. Whether it is for a meeting room, a venue for a seminar, hands-on experience sessions, training or team-building for staff, we can tailor a day to your specifications.
Groups
Talks
Our group talks are a fascinating, fun and educational experience for your business functions or school groups. We can come to you, host your group here at the Trust, or can offer a virtual talk. Each talk lasts approximately one hour, with a slideshow and question and answer session.
Visits
Organised groups and coach tour visits are welcome. Perfect for a day out or as a stop-off for a refreshment break in Feathers Restaurant. We can offer an introduction talk, ample free coach parking and fully accessible countryside grounds. Discounts are available.
Keep birds forever flying in our skies
Please consider a gift to the Trust in your Will
We know when it comes to your Will, family comes first. After which, if you are interested in leaving a gift that will help conserve the planet for the future of your loved ones, please consider us.
As top predators, birds of prey are a vital indicator of the health of the environment and understanding how best to conserve them is paramount to conserving our planet for future generations.
If you decide to leave us a gift, please let us know on info@hawkconservancy.org so that we can thank you and add you to our Legacy Club. By leaving a gift in your Will to charity, you may be entitled to a reduced Inheritance Tax rate.
Find out more about legacies
School Visits
We bring education to life outside the classroom.
We aim to share our passion for birds of prey and their conservation to inspire the next generation, from primary schools up to the highest levels of education. School groups can take part in our range of daily activities and talks, as well as watching our world-class flying displays. On top of this, we also offer tailored workshops.
“Planning and organising the trip was so easy and the staff are so helpful ensuring we got the very best out of our day.”
YEAR 6 TEACHER, ST NICOLAS JUNIOR SCHOOL
SCHOOL VISITS FROM NOVEMBER 2025 TO MARCH 2026
Find out more
The wildlife podcast brought to you by the Hawk Conservancy Trust WITH TOM
MORATH
Discover the fascinating world of feathers and talons in this podcast dedicated to birds of prey and their place in the natural world. Join us and uncover hidden secrets of these unique predators to help us understand how we can conserve some of the most endangered species on our planet today.
All episodes now available wherever you get your podcasts!
CONSISTENTLY RATED ONE OF THE UK’S TOP NATURE PODCASTS!
Visitor information
In case of emergency, please contact a member of staff immediately.
Please use the disinfectant matting every time you enter and exit the Trust grounds. This will help protect our birds by reducing the risk of spreading Avian Influenza (bird flu).
Lost children: If you lose your child, or parent, contact a member of staff immediately.
Qualified first aiders are always on duty. If you need assistance, please contact a member of staff.
Baby changing facilities are available in Feathers Restaurant.
Re-admittance: If you wish to return to your car during your visit, please go via reception.
Lost property can be collected from reception. Found property should be handed to a member of staff.
Electric Vehicle charging points are available in our car park. You can connect with the Monta EV Charging app.
Smoking and vaping is only permitted in the designated areas. See map.
Dogs are not permitted except for assistance dogs. If you would like to visit with an assistance dog, please call in advance so that we can arrange for a member of our team to meet you on arrival to discuss how to enjoy your day and keep our birds comfortable.
Children under the age of 16 are not allowed into the Trust unless they are supervised and accompanied by an adult.
The Trust is open every day in 2025 except:
• Monday 17 November - Friday 12 December
• Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 December
• Tuesday 6 January - Friday 13 February 2026
Thank you for taking the time to read this Welcome Guide. We hope that you had an enjoyable day at the Trust. When you have finished reading this booklet please pass it to a friend who you think would be interested in visiting us or supporting our work.
VISIT THE TRUST SHOP
On your way home, be sure to stop by the Trust Shop for a unique selection of souvenirs, gifts and treats.
Our wide range includes something for everyone – from avid bird of prey lovers to nature enthusiasts of all ages. Choose a special memento to take home as a reminder of your day out with us!
Alex McGarry
MEET ALEX MCGARRY, THE HAWK CONSERVANCY TRUST’S OFFICIAL ARTIST IN RESIDENCE!
Alex is a professional artist specialising in oil paintings of British wildlife and birds. She is the winner of the prestigious title ‘Up & Coming Artist of the Year’ awarded by the Fine Art Trade Guild.
An exclusive collection of Alex’s paintings will be on display in the Trust shop. Fifty percent of all painting sales and one hundred percent of profits from print sales will go directly towards supporting the Trust’s continued conservation, research and education of birds of prey and their habitats.