
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
📍 Balloch, Central Scotland
Family-run sanctuary in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park housing over 30 birds of prey including golden eagles and all five British owl species. Daily flying shows, hands-on experiences, keeper-for-a-day sessions, and a discovery trail.
My whole life I have wanted to get into falconry, but due to the nature of my job it’s almost impossible. I happened to find out about the bird of prey center on an online forum before my wife and I traveled from the states to visit Scotland. It seemed like a to good to be true moment, well I’m happy to say it more than over delivered. Our teacher Hannah should be the face of this awesome place, she knew everything about these amazing birds and made us incredibly comfortable when we got to handle them. We got to fly gonzo the spectacled owl, sully the American kestrel, and toothless the Harris hawk. Hannah not only talked about the birds (with an astonishing amount of information) but mankind’s interactions (both good and bad) with birds of prey. She didn’t romanticize the care of these animals. She set real expectations should the opportunity ever come for me to try my hand at falconry. If you near Loch Lomond make the time to come here, spend the money to take out some of there amazing birds and support an origination that so clearly loves these animals. Thanks again Hannah for a great once in a lifetime opportunity.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 8+ who genuinely want to engage with birds of prey rather than a general zoo experience. The falconers provide detailed, interactive commentary throughout. Children who visit on flying show days consistently report it as a highlight of their trip to Scotland.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →440 Google reviews
Matthew king
5 months ago
“My whole life I have wanted to get into falconry, but due to the nature of my job it’s almost impossible. I happened to find out about the bird of prey center on an online forum before my wife and I traveled from the states to visit Scotland. It seemed like a to good to be true moment, well I’m happy to say it more than over delivered. Our teacher Hannah should be the face of this awesome place, she knew everything about these amazing birds and made us incredibly comfortable when we got to handle them. We got to fly gonzo the spectacled owl, sully the American kestrel, and toothless the Harris hawk. Hannah not only talked about the birds (with an astonishing amount of information) but mankind’s interactions (both good and bad) with birds of prey. She didn’t romanticize the care of these animals. She set real expectations should the opportunity ever come for me to try my hand at falconry. If you near Loch Lomond make the time to come here, spend the money to take out some of there amazing birds and support an origination that so clearly loves these animals. Thanks again Hannah for a great once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Paul Barrett
8 months ago
“A great experience- but you need to see the birds flying currently 11.30am and 2pm. The bird flight was very interesting with lots of relevant information. Despite the drizzle we had a great time. Thoughtfully the cleaned off the water from the bench before we sat down. Then a good half hour show with three birds. Harris's Hawk, Eagle Owl, and a smaller bird, possibly a kite, which apparently was 12 years old - far older than you'd find in the wild. The centre is small but it is providing sanctuary to birds that sometimes were recovered. I believe the birds are taken out on rotation to fly, so they do not live their whole life in the cages. I gained the impression the staff really cared and the birds looked to be in beautiful condition, with no obvious signs of stress. There was a nice little gift shop with Thoughtful materials and souvenirs made from wood, largely avoiding the plastic trashy stuff you often see. A facility well worth supporting.”
Alix McNeill
8 months ago
“I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this place. The staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and all the birds looked very well and happy. We watched one of the free shows where they brought out various birds and explained their personalities and species. The show was really fun, and it was great to see how happy and free the birds were. People complaining about the cost is ridiculous. You can come and go as you please, take your time to read the information and learn about each bird, and explore the cabins with information, bones, skulls, and feathers. There’s also a small seated area with a video playing. All in all, it was a great time, and if you’re around to catch a show at the listed times, I highly recommend it.”
Sarah Bracken-Sweeting
7 months ago
“Fantastic little place that we all thoroughly enjoyed visiting (2 adults & 2 children - 13 & 10 yrs old). Those that are saying the enclosures are too small etc, obviously didnt take the time to talk to the staff about the origins and needs of the birds at the sanctuary. We were lucky enough to do a flying experice (Highly reccomend) with a gorgeous old man (Owl) called Cargo. His hadler was so knowledgeable and the staff are all absolutely dedicated to the birds care and well being, and will talk to you about anything you want to know! The flying show was full of facts and demonstrated the birds individual characters (very funny). Money well spent on a very enjoyable visit & a good cause.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Set in woodland within the National Park, this sanctuary houses golden eagles, hawks, vultures, and all five British owl species across naturalistic enclosures. Daily flying displays run at scheduled times and demonstrate the birds' natural hunting techniques. Hands-on experiences allow visitors to fly birds themselves with a trained falconer. Keeper-for-a-day and hunting expedition experiences are bookable for older children and adults.
