Willows Birds of Prey & Wildlife Trail

"I really don't think I can express how much my wife and I enjoyed our visit. Our children bought her a Birds of Prey experience day and booked us a weekend in a local B&B as a joint 50th birthday - 25th wedding anniversary gift. Unfortunately covid happened just afterwards : - ( We eventually got to go this weekend and it was definitely well worth the wait. The staff were brilliant, very friendly, knowledgeable and are obviously passionate and love what they do. Alistair, the lass who was our guide - handler for the experience, was lovely and great fun. She told us so much about each of the birds and their backgrounds it was really, really great. My wife was so thrilled at being able to get up close to and fly some of the birds, I really don't think I can ever do anything that will equal (let alone top) the whole experience. I would definitely recommend a visit to anyone of any age 0-99 if they enjoy not only birds of prey, but animals and wildlife in general. There were lots of children there and they all seemed genuinely thrilled too. Also the blueberry cafe was a great place to stop for a cuppa and a cake. My wife is Coeliac (strict gluten free diet) & was amazed by the choices of options available to her dietary requirements.."

"Had a great time here learning about the birds and watching a few being 'flown'. The highlight was being able to fly the raptors and owls and see them feed while perched at the end of my arm. Would recommend for all who love or have an interest in our feathered friends."

"My husband & I received a full day Bird of Prey experience as a gift, and what a gift it was! I know that this isn't cheap, but as an hourly rate or compared to other animal experiences in wildlife parks/zoos, it's very good value for money. We had a personal experience, with plenty of hands on time to fly 8 different birds, throughout our visit. It was never rushed but we also felt the welfare of the birds was paramount. The staff were all so lovely, friendly and knowledgeable and clearly adore the birds. We also got to see 2 demonstrations, look at the other animals once our experience was over and were given vouchers for our lunch. We had the most fantastic day and would recommend this to anyone who loves birds of prey, you won't regret it."

"I came for the Bird of Prey Experience Day and, though it could be considered a bit costly, the experience you get is well worth it from a personal tour of some of the centre's favourite birds to being able to have a few of them come land on your glove. And all led by very knowledgeable and enthusiastic people. Would highly recommend. Just remember to wear sensible shoes."

"My wife and I have just spent a very enjoyable day at the Willows birds of prey centre at Coolings Lifestyle, Knockholt, Kent. We did the one day, Introduction to Falconry course. In the morning we were instructed by Jill who went through a good selection of owls with us which we flew and handled. Jill was very knowledgeable and does indeed keep her own birds. After a light lunch which is included in the price of a ticket in the Coolings cafe, we then had an afternoon session with a keeper called Josh, who went through a lot of the birds of prey with us. Again a very knowledgeable chap who has been there quite a few years and also has birds of his own. We have been to willows before on a day ticket for a look to see what it was like before deciding to do the falconry course. In all a very enjoyable day for both myself and my wife and we would highly recommend this centre. We hope to go again next year. Thank you all, for a great day."