Hawkeye School of Falconry
Hawkeye School of Falconry
Hawkeye School of Falconry
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About
We are a small family run Falconry school that provide a range of Falconry experiences and Hawk Walks by appointment. Our Falconry School is situated on the beautiful 5 star Lyrath Estate in the historic medieval city of Kilkenny in Irelands Ancient East. Discover Falconry, a living History. To view experiences visit our website.
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny, Ireland
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Travellers' Choice
2024
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Hawkeye School of Falconry
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5.0
268 reviews
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fela2015
Waterford, Ireland1 contribution
Sept 2020 • Couples
We booked into Mount Juliet Estate for two nights, the best staycation that ended in the best possible way with Hawkeye Falconry! Caroline was amazing and so were her fantastic birds that were mesmerising to not only watch but interact with. Caroline was fantastic - enthusiastically taking the time to explain to us all about the history of falconry, the types of birds we would be interacting with and of course answering all of our many questions along with helping us take lots of photos. I would highly recommend booking Hawkeye Falconry if you are looking for something unique, different and fun to do on your stay! We couldn’t stop talking about the experience on the way home and we will definitely be doing it again! Thank you again Caroline, Nelson, Egbert and Reggie - Michella & Jeremy.
Written 8 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much guys for taking the time to write such a lovely review, your kind words mean a lot!
We are delighted that you enjoyed spending time with our very special team of birds and that you got some great shots. We very much look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Best wishes,
Hawkeye Falconry team.
Written 13 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elizabeth C
10 contributions
Mar 2020
We had booked ahead for my husband and I to do this course in early March 2020, and we could not have been any more pleased. John was an outstanding steward of his birds. He was extremely knowledgeable and answered all of our questions while casually calling Bertie on and off of our gloves. This was by far our favorite thing we did on our trip to Ireland and we would HIGHLY recommend to any visitors. We might have actually been willing to pay more than what we did. The setting at Mount Juliet was outstanding and it was great that their was a playground on site for our children to run around. Booking ahead by email was easy and we handled payment the day of. Since our children couldn't participate, John allowed them to 'meet' his owls Turbo and Diesel at the end of our session and that was an incredible experience. Turbo and Diesel are the stars of a new children's book on Amazon that we are sure to order soon. Thank you so much John!
Written 22 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was a pleasure to meet you and your kind words are much appreciated. We are so happy that you enjoyed your experience with us and thank you sincerely for taking the time to write such a lovely review for us.
Hopefully we will meet again in the future!
Written 13 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
steve sandford
6 contributions
Aug 2021
Absolutely amazing and unique experience.
John first showed us his large collection of 'raptor' hawks, falcons and the beautiful 'Blue South American Eagle', telling us a little about the history and attributes of the animals and how they operate at the center. We got a real insight into breeding and working these amazing birds.
Not inexpensive, but the exclusive 'one-to' one' treatment John showed us, his patience, his educational and entertaining conversation throughout, really allowed us to get value for money. John took a lot of time with our little girl, attending her until she felt confident enough to 'fly' the beautiful Harris hawk alone. His friendly and 'laid-back' style made us feel like a friend was sharing his passion with us. The trip felt really unhurried and we all felt that John was a perfect host and teacher.
We then moved to meet the owls, which we also 'flew' and, unlike the hawks, our little girl was allowed to pet them! (See Photo). Again, John shared facts and stories about the animals. Or unhurried visit lasted longer than the prescribed hour and at the finish, John gifted our girl a signed copy of his children's book, 'Turbo and Diesel the Owls' a beautifully illustrated book which he penned in memory of his late father. Our child LOVES the book!
A 10/10 experience all round and one I hope we'll repeat.
xx SF
John first showed us his large collection of 'raptor' hawks, falcons and the beautiful 'Blue South American Eagle', telling us a little about the history and attributes of the animals and how they operate at the center. We got a real insight into breeding and working these amazing birds.
Not inexpensive, but the exclusive 'one-to' one' treatment John showed us, his patience, his educational and entertaining conversation throughout, really allowed us to get value for money. John took a lot of time with our little girl, attending her until she felt confident enough to 'fly' the beautiful Harris hawk alone. His friendly and 'laid-back' style made us feel like a friend was sharing his passion with us. The trip felt really unhurried and we all felt that John was a perfect host and teacher.
We then moved to meet the owls, which we also 'flew' and, unlike the hawks, our little girl was allowed to pet them! (See Photo). Again, John shared facts and stories about the animals. Or unhurried visit lasted longer than the prescribed hour and at the finish, John gifted our girl a signed copy of his children's book, 'Turbo and Diesel the Owls' a beautifully illustrated book which he penned in memory of his late father. Our child LOVES the book!
A 10/10 experience all round and one I hope we'll repeat.
xx SF
Written 20 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy that you had an enjoyable and memorable experience with us at our Falconry school, it was a pleasure to meet you all!
We are delighted that your little girl loves the book!!
Thank you for your positive feedback and for taking the time to write such a great review, this really means so much to us.
Written 10 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
shauna m
9 contributions
Sept 2020
I wanted to take the time to leave a review as my experience was just exceptional. I was completely overwhelmed with the whole experienced from start to finish. My face was sore from smiling afterwards, one of the best experiences of my life. I was extremely lucky with the weather which made it all that much better but to be fair I think I would have went hail, sleet or snow. This is something that I wanted to do all my life, I adore animals especially birds and Irish native birds. I won’t be doing it just the once, the minute it finished I wanted to book in again, I will be back over and over again. John is just fantastic, he is so friendly, he knew exactly what he was doing I was in awe. He stopped to let me take photos, selfies and he answered all my questions, he was so patient. I was in awe of his passion and wealth of knowledge about the birds and the history of the sport in Ireland. The birds are just stunning with first class training, you can see he just adores the birds. I got to meet the famous Turbo and Diesel, my partner got a surprise when Turbo decided to land on his head LOL. I also got the meet the beautiful Priscilla, I nearly died when he came out her, I never in my life thought I would meet never mind hold a Chilean Blue eagle. The photo hangs proudly on my mantle. The hawk walk was just out of this world, I got to see a Harris hawk hunt, I got to see a younger Harris hawk learn and train. I even got to participate a little in the training. I have never felt so happy. I could go on and on but don’t want to ruin in for the future visitors LOL. The grounds were outstanding. The whole day start to finish was just exceptional. If you are looking at this review and deciding if you will give it a try, GO FOR IT, it is out of this world. Best experience EVER. You will never experience the excitement of a Harris hawk coming in to land on your hand. The skill and beauty of these birds is amazing. I already am waiting to book again as soon as Priscilla is ready :)
Written 25 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review, your kind words mean a lot to us.
We are absolutely delighted that you enjoyed your experience with us so much and we are looking forward to welcoming you back soon!
Best wishes from all the team at Hawkeye Falconry
Written 13 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mike D
4 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
We spent a fantastic session with Caroline, Reggie (the Harris Hawk) and Nelson (the prettiest owl you have ever seen).
It was up close and personal with Reggie doing long and short flights and landing on our arm. Nelson flew in and liked nothing better than being made a fuss of.
Caroline was the perfect host and instructor providing a full overview of birds of prey, the history and how to handle them.
A wonderful walk through the forest with a fully immersive experience.
Would recommend this to anyone who admires birds of prey or would just like a really personal experience of it. Ideal for children and adults alike.
The birds really stole the show and it makes you appreciate just how important the nature is around us.
Thank you Caroline. Keep up the good work.
It was up close and personal with Reggie doing long and short flights and landing on our arm. Nelson flew in and liked nothing better than being made a fuss of.
Caroline was the perfect host and instructor providing a full overview of birds of prey, the history and how to handle them.
A wonderful walk through the forest with a fully immersive experience.
Would recommend this to anyone who admires birds of prey or would just like a really personal experience of it. Ideal for children and adults alike.
The birds really stole the show and it makes you appreciate just how important the nature is around us.
Thank you Caroline. Keep up the good work.
Written 20 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Your kind words are very much appreciated, thank you very much!
We are delighted that you enjoyed your falconry experience with us, thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review!
Written 22 March 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
radarharp
Florida290 contributions
Mar 2020
Caroline was waiting for us on the Waterford Castle grounds with three of her hunting bird friends. We were about a quarter hour late because we didn't previously realize that this experience takes place on an island with a castle, and is accessed by a ferry. We were introduced to the first of two Harris's Hawks, Reggie, and informed about the history, techniques, and even vocabulary of falconry. Very interesting. It was extremely windy on this day, but the birds were still released to do what they are intended to do, which is to hunt.
Two of us took turns allowing the raptors to fly from a tree branch and land on our outstretched gloved fist and consume raw meat. It was an amazing experience. The third person in our group took many great photos and videos of the experience.
Finally, as time got short, the tiny white-faced owl originating in South Africa came forward. It turns out that Nelson is the star of the show. Less than half a pound in weight, his handsome face, personable nature, and unique vocalizations were very appealing to us.
Thanks to Caroline and Hawkeye Falconry the dreary afternoon was turned into an unforgettable occasion.
Two of us took turns allowing the raptors to fly from a tree branch and land on our outstretched gloved fist and consume raw meat. It was an amazing experience. The third person in our group took many great photos and videos of the experience.
Finally, as time got short, the tiny white-faced owl originating in South Africa came forward. It turns out that Nelson is the star of the show. Less than half a pound in weight, his handsome face, personable nature, and unique vocalizations were very appealing to us.
Thanks to Caroline and Hawkeye Falconry the dreary afternoon was turned into an unforgettable occasion.
Written 8 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review, we really appreciate your kind words.
A detailed email containing exact directions on how to find us at Waterford Castle was sent to your travel agent on confirmation of their booking on your behalf, perhaps it mistakenly wasn't passed on to you.....but you guys found us anyway and you weren't even late as our booking was for 2pm! :)
It was a pleasure to meet you all and share our Falconry experience with you, we are delighted that you enjoyed it and got some great photo and videos.
Thanks again!
Kind regards,
Caroline
Written 10 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JJ S
Midleton, Ireland62 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
A great time talking with experts on Falconry and learning how to hold and feed them.
We visited today from Cork and we had an amazing time. My daughter who loves birds had the time of her life and came away wanting to learn more, as we all did.
We had the pleasure of going out with Reggie who is a real star, even if a little tired after his holiday. He still out on a fantastic show for us and made us appreciate how beautiful and intelligent hawks are.
I would highly recommend visiting and getting a taste of what it must have been like to see these birds in action.
We visited today from Cork and we had an amazing time. My daughter who loves birds had the time of her life and came away wanting to learn more, as we all did.
We had the pleasure of going out with Reggie who is a real star, even if a little tired after his holiday. He still out on a fantastic show for us and made us appreciate how beautiful and intelligent hawks are.
I would highly recommend visiting and getting a taste of what it must have been like to see these birds in action.
Written 9 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us, it was a pleasure to meet you.
We really appreciate you taking the time to write us a review - thank you for such great feedback.
Written 12 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Carol L
Boston, MA13 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
This was one of the best experiences of our trip! My 10yo son could not stop smiling through the entire time and he can’t stop talking about it. I can not recommend this enough for anyone especially children who love birds and/or raptors. John and Caroline were great and knowledgeable
Written 26 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your lesson with us, it was a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for booking with us and for taking the time to write such a wonderful review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
Go raibh míle maith agat
Written 18 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sinead
Loughrea, Ireland404 contributions
May 2022 • Family
We booked the family experience for our family of 5, 2 adults and 3 children aged between 7 and 10. We had a brilliant time, both adults and kids throughly enjoyed it. We got introduced to all the birds first learning about each bird individually, then we got to meet two owls and got to pet then and learn some fun facts about them, afterwards we got to go out to the field with a Harris Halk and we each got to have him fly to us by holding a bit of meat on our glove, everyone loved this and then we got to do a few tricks with him. We learnt loads of fun and interesting facts and we found our falconeer Caroline was so friendly and she got on great with the kids. I would definitely recommend coming here. It was a great day out.
Written 17 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are delighted that your family enjoyed your Private Family Experience with us., it was a pleasure to meet you all.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to write such a lovely review, it is much appreciated.
Written 10 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sarah W
4 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
From the ease of booking online, to the pristine facilities, the Hawkeye Falconry ensures a pleasant experience from the very start.
Our family of 5 took our tour with John. John was knowledgeable, friendly, and so great with our kids (ages 10-14). He walked us through the history of falconry, introduced us to their variety of falcons, before letting our family each meet Turbo, the owl. After getting adorable selfies with Turbo, John took us out into the fields with Egbert, the Harris hawk.
Each person got 5-6 “flights” with Egbert. John would call Egbert from the nearby trees, who would then fly/perch on our hand. You truly get a majestic, eye-opening interaction with the hawk. It was absolutely delightful.
I can’t recommend this falconry enough!
Our family of 5 took our tour with John. John was knowledgeable, friendly, and so great with our kids (ages 10-14). He walked us through the history of falconry, introduced us to their variety of falcons, before letting our family each meet Turbo, the owl. After getting adorable selfies with Turbo, John took us out into the fields with Egbert, the Harris hawk.
Each person got 5-6 “flights” with Egbert. John would call Egbert from the nearby trees, who would then fly/perch on our hand. You truly get a majestic, eye-opening interaction with the hawk. It was absolutely delightful.
I can’t recommend this falconry enough!
Written 21 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy to hear that you found your experience with us at our Falconry School to be an enjoyable one.
It was a pleasure to meet you all, thank you for such wonderful feedback.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review for us, your kind words are very much appreciated!
Written 5 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi, I’m planning a trip from the U.S. and I was wondering what your refund policy is in case my travel plans are interrupted?
Written 11 May 2022
Hi, a full refund applies only if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience. (Minus transaction fees) Hope this helps!
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Written 11 June 2022
Do you offer the falconry experience for 2 people and what would the price be?
Written 28 February 2020
Hi,
Yes we do offer our private Falconry Experience for 2 people.
If you email us we can send you on further information.
Thank you,
Kind regards,
Caroline Duggan
Written 29 February 2020
Hi, we dont have admission price as we offer falconry experiences by booking if you would like to email me I can pass on experiences and prices. Thank you,john.
Written 16 September 2017
How far are you from Tramore? Also what is the best way to schedule this experience?
Mary
Written 16 June 2017
Email is the best way to book, We work from Waterford Castle which is 30 mins from the Castle.
Written 17 June 2017
Hi
My family will be in Ireland during the first week in August and I wanted to surprise them with a falconry activity.
There are 6 adults in my group. I have the following questions:
1) would each person have the opportunity to have a bird land on their glove and take photos?
2) how long is the activity?
3) what are your hours and days of operation?
4) how much is it per person for the activity?
5) How far are you from the Waterford Crystal factory time wise?
thank you
Mary
Written 29 March 2017
Hi Mary,
Thank you for your enquiry. The Falconry experience is very hands on and interactive so yes, each person will get to call the Hawk a number of times to their glove and there will be fantastic photo opportunities. There are two options available, you can choose one of these:
Falconry Experience:
Duration 1 hour €70 for 1 person €30 per person extra
We will demonstrate the Ancient Art of Falconry. Watch our Hawks demonstrate their hunting skills by catching food out of the air and witness a simulated rabbit hunt where our Hawk will chase and catch the dummy bunny and the falconer will demonstrate the transfer from the dummy bunny. Enjoy a casual walk as our Hawk follows on while he flies to your gloved fist to feed and returns to the trees. Get to handle one of our Owls while the Falconer teaches you about the species. Fantastic photo opportunities throughout the experience.
OR
Hawk Walk:
Duration 40 min €60 for 1 person €20 per person extra
Get the opportunity to walk with one of our Hawks while calling the Hawk from the trees to your gloved fist to feed. To finish you get to handle one of our owls. Fantastic photo opportunities throughout the experience.
If you would like a certain date and time we will do our best to accomodate you, booking in advance is advisable. During the summer months we work 7 days a week, 9am - 9pm.
The experience will be held on the grounds of Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Club, this location is a 10 minute drive from Waterford Crystal. Allow an extra 15 minutes on your journey for the free ferry crossing to the island.
If we can be of any further assistance don't hesitate to ask.
Best regards,
John Duggan
Written 29 March 2017
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