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Zoos & Wildlife

Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary

📍 Preston, North West

★4.8(1,018 Google reviews)💰£7-£12👶2+

Non-profit sanctuary in Turbary Woods housing over 90 birds of prey across multiple species. Daily flight displays let children handle birds and fly them to the glove. No advance booking required.

✓ Hands-on flying experiences✓ Knowledgeable volunteers✓ Conservation focused✓ Non-commercial✓ Great for children 4+✓ Photography welcome

🏆 Funzaroo Verdict

Best for families with children aged 4+ who want a genuine, conservation-focused wildlife experience. The 12:30 flight display is the optimal session for child participation — kids can fly birds to the glove and feed them directly. The site is rustic rather than polished, which is part of its appeal. Photography is encouraged throughout.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Attend the midday flight display for the best hands-on participation opportunities
⏰Dress for the weather — displays continue in cold and damp conditions
🎟️Photography is welcomed and encouraged throughout the site
🚗Book specialist owl encounters or falconer days in advance for a deeper experience

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.8
★★★★★

1,018 Google reviews

G Reviews from Google

A

Alison Miller

11 months ago

★★★★★

“Absolutely brilliant! What a wonderful experience and to be able to get up so close to these beautiful animals. We bought the owl experience for my brothers birthday and he loved it! He couldn't stop smiling! All the volunteers are very knowledge, friendly and passionate about the birds and the sanctuary. I love the fact it's not commercialised. Its all about the birds and creating a safe and natural environment for visitors to enjoy too. Thank you for having us and allowing us to take photographs of a very memorable day.”

S

Sara Auty

8 months ago

★★★★★

“A bird lovers paradise! We were pleasantly surprised at how many different birds were there, some we’ve not heard of. The flight display was incredible and we couldn’t believe how up close you could get, including wearing a glove to have the birds fly to you and feed them. The team that run the centre were really friendly and knowledgeable. We couldn’t recommend it enough and today was freezing! Well worth it though and our 6 year old loved it.”

O

Olga Lockhart

7 months ago

★★★★★

“What a wonderful happy place,we visited many birds zoos,but this is our favorite and absolutely best! Birds flight display is very special big variety of birds talk and great opportunity to hold different birds,which is very rear thing,100%recommend.We are always coming back when it’s on our way.”

💬 What parents mention

Knowledgeable, passionate volunteersHands-on bird flying experiencesNon-commercial, authentic atmosphereSuitable for young children

Overview

Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary is volunteer-run and houses over 90 birds including eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and vultures in woodland aviaries. The midday flight display gives children direct handling opportunities — flying birds to the glove and feeding them. Specialist experiences including owl encounters and falconer days can be booked separately. Seasonal opening hours apply.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday11:00 – 14:00
Tuesday11:00 – 14:00
Wednesday11:00 – 14:00
Thursday11:00 – 14:00
Friday11:00 – 14:00
Saturday11:00 – 14:00
Sunday11:00 – 14:00

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