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Owl Handling Experience

A Magical Encounter with Nature’s Most Enchanting Birds

Step into the quiet world of owls — mysterious, wise, and utterly captivating.
Our Owl Handling Experience offers you the unforgettable chance to meet, fly, and feed a stunning variety of owls, from tiny burrowing owls to the impressive Eurasian eagle owl.

With small group sizes and plenty of personal time with each bird, this relaxed, hands-on session is perfect for owl lovers, families, or anyone looking for a truly unique outdoor gift.

alders Zofia and Juliet the barn owl on a falconry experience london

What to Expect

Your three-hour experience begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the fascinating lives of owls — their unique adaptations, hunting techniques, and individual personalities.
Then, you’ll enjoy the thrill of calling an owl to your gloved hand, feeling the gentle rush of air as it lands, and discovering how each bird responds to its handler.

You’ll meet several species, including:

  • Elegant barn owls, silent in flight

  • The powerful Eurasian eagle owl

  • Everyone's favourite our tawny owl

  • The majestic great horned owl

Every guest enjoys generous one-to-one time with the birds, ensuring this is a day of calm connection and discovery — not a crowd experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Owl Handling: Frequently Asked Questions.

Still looking for answers? Just call.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes. Participants aged 7 upwards can take part (under-16s must be accompanied by an adult). We tailor the pace to the group.

How long does the owl handling experience last?

Around three hours, including a short introduction, handling time, and flying sessions.

Which Owls Are on the session?

You’ll meet several species, including:

  • Elegant barn owls, silent in flight

  • The powerful Eurasian eagle owl

  • Everyone’s favourite our tawny owl

  • The majestic great horned owl

Amongst others

Can I buy this as a gift or book a private session?

Yes—gift vouchers are available, and we offer private owl experiences on request.

Meet The Owls  Experience (3 Hours)

Discover the awesome and inspiring world of owl handling with Bird on the Hand where you will immerse yourself in our half-day owl handling experiences.

You will be told the mysterious, magical secrets and facts of these magnificent birds and you will feel the exhilaration and honour as they gracefully land on your glove, entrusting you with their presence.

This unparalleled adventure is a must for anyone seeking an authentic and breathtaking connection with nature. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to meet our owls from the smallest to the largest.

Price £89.99pp – Spectators £35.00pp

Full Experience Details

Meet The Owls Experience

They’re cute, fascinating, and truly amazing. Enjoy a fantastic and memorable encounter with our incredible owls—up close and personal.

A superb and unique experience for owl lovers of all ages! Get a real “Owl on the Hand” as you fly a wide variety of owls, from the smallest to the largest. Owls are among the most mysterious birds of prey, and they inspire deep admiration and passion in their fans.

You’ll get hands-on time with several owl species—watch them fly, feed, and return to your glove. Learn captivating facts about these enigmatic raptors. This is a three-hour experience not to be missed by any owl enthusiast. Book today for a day you won’t forget.


Companions & Spectators
You're welcome to bring friends or family to share the experience. Spectators stay by your side throughout the session—able to take photos, ask questions, and join in the excitement. While they won’t handle the birds, they’ll still have a fantastic time.

  • Select the number of spectators during booking to see pricing.

  • Children under 16 may spectate for free if accompanied by a paying adult spectator.


Location
This event takes place near Milton Keynes:
Alders farm, Ivy Lane, Great Brickhill, Buckinghamshire, MK17 9AH


Experience Details

  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  • Typical Times: 10am–1pm or 2pm–5pm

  • Group Size: Usually up to six participants

  • Voucher Validity: 12 months from purchase date


Good To Know

  • Weather: This experience is weather dependent and may be postponed in wet or extreme conditions. You’ll have ample opportunity to rebook if needed.

  • Booking Calendar: Online bookings are available up to 4 months ahead. If you’re planning for a special occasion beyond that, please call us to discuss options.

  • Tea and Coffee available here.
  • Toilet Accesible for wheelchairs

What to Wear

  • Dress appropriately for the weather. On colder days, you won’t be moving much—layers are important.

  • The ground is rarely muddy, so walking boots or sturdy shoes are usually sufficient.

  • Avoid bright dayglo colours, as these can disturb some birds.

  • In summer, sunscreen and a bottle of water are sensible.

  • If you suffer from hay fever, bring antihistamines—you’ll be outdoors in a grassy field


Gifting Options

  • Upgrade to our Deluxe Presentation Pack to add:

    • Your printed voucher 
    • A smart gift box with gold bow (Picture in the galley)

    • A real leather mini falconer's gauntlet and falconry bell keyfob  (various colours)

 

Where do the experiences take place?

We run falconry experiences at two beautiful countryside locations:

  • Barn Owl Hollow near Market Harborough, Leicestershire

  • Alders Farm near Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

Each site offers open countryside, peace, and plenty of space for the birds to fly.

How big are the groups?

Small groups (up to six participants) to keep the experience calm, safe, and hands-on.

Can I take photos or bring guests?

Yes, photography is encouraged! You’re welcome to bring one or two guests to watch and take pictures, though only booked participants can handle the birds.

Alders Farm venue set in a lovely location with lakes, woodland and pasture

A Perfect Gift for Nature Lovers

Whether your recipient is a lifelong bird enthusiast or simply someone who loves wildlife and the outdoors, an owl experience makes an inspiring and thoughtful gift.
It’s ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply to treat someone special to a peaceful, unforgettable day.

Meet The Owls  (3 Hours)

Discover the awesome and inspiring world of owl handling with Bird on the Hand where you will immerse yourself in our half-day owl handling experiences.

You will be told the mysterious, magical secrets and facts of these magnificent birds and you will feel the exhilaration and honour as they gracefully land on your glove, entrusting you with their presence.

This unparalleled adventure is a must for anyone seeking an authentic and breathtaking connection with nature. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to meet our owls from the smallest to the largest.

Price £110pp – Spectators £35.00pp

Don't forget our Meet the Birds Experience. This includes owls and other raptors.

Meet the Birds Experience (3 Hours)

Join us on our unforgettable Meet The Birds Experience where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating world of falconry. Join us for an interactive journey, where you will not only observe these majestic creatures up close, but also have the opportunity to handle and fly them.

This is a packed half day falconry experience where you will get to feel the thrill and privilege of being trusted by our amazing birds as they swoop onto your glove. It is an unrivalled, up close to nature, adventure that is not to be missed.

It is ideal for individuals and groups of all ages, including children seven upwards. Enjoy this emotive back to nature, feel good, experience with our amazing birds of prey.

Gift this remarkable falconry experience today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Price £99pp – Spectators £35.00pp

Boy with Elvis the Eurasian eagle owl placed on his fist

Why Choose Bird on the Hand

  • Small groups of up to six participants — ensuring personal attention

  • Experienced falconers who share knowledge with warmth and enthusiasm

  • Relaxed, friendly atmosphere — perfect for first-timers and families

  • Tea, coffee, and comfort facilities included

  • Beautiful countryside setting in Buckinghamshire, within easy reach of surrounding counties

Our owl experiences are also covered by our Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can book or buy a voucher with complete confidence.

Location

Our Meet The Owls, Owl Handling Experiences take place at: Alders Farm, Ivy Lane, Great Brickhill, Buckinghamshire, MK17 9AH

Easily accessible from across the region and set in peaceful countryside surroundings.

Owl handling experience showing a visitor having our eagle land on her fist in the woodland
Woman in blue has a photo with Eurasian Eagle Owl

Customer Reviews

“A magical afternoon — we met so many beautiful owls and learned so much. The small group made it feel very personal.”
Lizzie, Buckinghamshire

“An amazing experience. Watching my dad hold an owl for the first time was something I’ll never forget.”
Helen R.

“I booked the owl experience as a gift — it was simply perfect. Small group, friendly falconers, and the birds were stunning.”
Rachel L. Oxford

Barn owl - Tyto alba - in flight on an owl handling experience Bird on the Hand HQ wide