Ireland's School of Falconry

Ireland's School of Falconry gives you the chance to fly a hawk around the spectacular grounds of Ashford Castle in a private Hawk Walk. No previous experience is necessary and the school caters for all ages and abilities. Be sure to bring your camera - flying a hawk is the experience of a lifetime! Their aim is to share with you the pleasure and excitement of falconry, a fascination that has enthralled people for 4,000 years. They specialise in teaching private falconry sessions using the beautiful Harris hawks, but in addition to hawks the school is home to a variety of other Birds Of Prey, all of which have been specially bred in captivity and are flown free daily. This exclusive collection of birds of prey is not on view to the public and the school is open by appointment only, however, bookings can usually be accommodated at a moment's notice. Under the shelter of the magnificent woodlands surrounding the school, falconry can be booked whatever the weather. Falconry is an ancient art, reputed to be the oldest sport in the world. Originating in the Far East around 2000BC, as a means of catching food for yourself and your family, falconry spread Westwards reaching the shores of Europe long before the end of the first Millennium.