Overview
Nestled on the spectacular grounds of Ashford Castle, Ireland’s School of Falconry (often called Ashford Falconry School) offers a rare chance to step into the ancient art of falconry. Founded in 1999, it is the oldest falconry school in the Republic of Ireland and proudly houses the largest and most diverse collection of Harris hawks in the world. The experience centres on a one‑hour Private Hawk Walk, where you glide a trained hawk over the castle’s manicured gardens, lakeside paths and ancient woodlands, feeling the bird’s powerful wingbeats and keen eyesight as it circles back to your gloved fist.
The school is situated in Cong, a picturesque village that straddles the border of County Mayo and County Galway, and the setting is as dramatic as the birds themselves. The backdrop of Lough Corrib and the historic stone walls of Ashford Castle create a cinematic landscape that makes the falconry experience feel like a scene from a medieval manuscript.
History & Background
When the school opened its doors in 1999, it filled a niche that had been missing from Ireland’s tourism offering – an authentic, hands‑on encounter with birds of prey. Over the past two decades the school has built a reputation for exceptional animal welfare; every hawk is trained in‑house, never sold, and remains a lifelong member of the falconry family. Annual zoological inspections consistently commend the school’s high standards, underscoring the deep bond between the staff and their feathered charges.
The collection’s breadth is a point of pride. Harris hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus) are renowned for their sociable temperament, making them ideal for first‑time falconers as well as seasoned enthusiasts. The school’s dedication to breeding, training, and daily flight means that each bird is accustomed to human interaction while retaining its natural hunting instincts.
What to See & Do
Private Hawk Walk
The flagship activity is the Private one‑hour Hawk Walk. Upon arrival you are greeted by a knowledgeable falconer who introduces you to your hawk and fits a soft glove on your hand. Within minutes the bird will perch on your glove, and you set off on a guided walk that weaves through:
- Manicured Castle Gardens – formal flowerbeds, stone pathways, and historic statues provide a regal ambience.
- Ancient Woodlands – towering oaks and birches create a natural arena where the hawk can showcase its agility.
- Lakeside Views – occasional glimpses of Lough Corrib add a tranquil water element to the flight.
During the walk the falconer shares insights about the hawk’s exceptional eyesight, speed (up to 150 km/h in a dive), and individual personality. You’ll learn how each bird was trained, hear anecdotes about their quirks, and watch as the hawk swoops down from a tree to land back on your gloved fist – a moment many describe as “pure magic”.
Educational Insight
Beyond the thrill of flight, the experience is educational. The falconer explains the 4,000‑year history of falconry, the role of birds of prey in Irish folklore, and the modern conservation efforts that protect raptor species across Europe. For families, the walk is tailored to children aged seven and up, with younger participants (7‑11) often sharing a hawk under close supervision.
Photo Opportunities
The combination of soaring hawks, historic stone walls, and shimmering water makes for spectacular photographs. The school’s gallery (see gallery) showcases past visitors with their birds, offering inspiration for your own snapshots.
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Daily 09:30 – 16:00 (hawks have no preference for time of day) |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 7 years; children 7‑11 may share a hawk |
| Booking | Advance booking recommended, especially in peak summer months. Use the booking page to secure a slot. |
| Weather Policy | Hawks will fly in light showers; prolonged heavy rain may lead to cancellation – call ahead if the forecast looks severe. |
| Location | Ashford Castle, Cong, County Mayo, Ireland (EirCode F31 YF90) |
| Contact | Phone: (0)94 954 6820 • Email: info@falconry.ie |
| Website | https://falconry.ie/ |
Getting There – The school is a short drive from the town of Cong and is well signposted from the N59. Parking is available on the castle grounds at no extra charge. Public transport options are limited; most visitors arrive by car or join a guided tour that includes a stop at the falconry school.
What to Bring – While the school provides gloves, you may wish to bring a light jacket for early‑morning walks. The hawks are accustomed to a range of weather conditions, but a waterproof layer can make the experience more comfortable on damp days.
Accessibility – The main walking route is on well‑maintained garden paths suitable for most visitors, though some sections of the woodland trail involve uneven ground. If you have specific mobility concerns, contact the school in advance to discuss possible accommodations.
Why It’s Worth the Visit
A Hawk Walk at Ashford Falconry School is more than a novelty; it is a deep, tactile connection with Ireland’s natural heritage. The combination of expertly trained Harris hawks, a historic castle setting, and passionate guides creates an experience that lingers long after the birds have returned to their perches. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for a unique activity, or a traveller seeking a memorable story to tell, the private falconry adventure delivers a blend of adrenaline, education, and awe that few other attractions can match.
For those planning a broader itinerary in the west of Ireland, the falconry school pairs beautifully with visits to Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, and the wild Atlantic Way, offering a distinctive inland contrast to the coastal scenery.
Ready to feel the wind beneath a hawk’s wings? Book your private Hawk Walk today and add a feathered chapter to your Irish adventure.