Group holding various owls and hawks.

Family Friendly Falconry Experience

Qualified, Experienced Falconer
Tripadvisor review
Tripadvisor review
Fully Licensed & Approved
Fully Insured
Qualified, Experienced Falconer
Tripadvisor review
Tripadvisor review
Fully Licensed & Approved
Fully Insured

Family Activities in Waterford – A Unique Wildlife Experience for Kids

Mayfield Birds of Prey & Wildlife Centre is one of the most popular family activities in Waterford, offering a hands on wildlife experience for kids of all ages.

Led by Willie, a qualified and licensed falconer, families get the chance to see birds of prey up close, learn how they fly and hunt, and understand why conservation matters and all delivered in a relaxed, friendly way that kids actually enjoy.

Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, primary school kids or teenagers, experiences can be tailored to suit different ages and attention spans.

Adults and child holding several owls.
Family posing with several different owls.

Family Show & Tell Bird Experience

Summer Time (June, July & August): Daily at 11:30am & 1:00pm

Rest Of Year Round: Saturday & Sunday at 11:30am & 1:00pm

This 60-minute show is designed especially for families and younger visitors.
This experience is one of the most popular kids activities in Waterford, especially for younger children who love animals and being up close to nature.

Children get to:

  • Meet a range of birds of prey
  • Learn fun facts about how they fly, hunt and live
  • See flying demonstrations
  • Get involved in gentle, hands on moments where suitable
  • Have photos taken with the birds
  • Educational without being formal or rushed

As one of the leading family attractions in Waterford, Mayfield Birds of Prey & Wildlife Centre combines education, entertainment and conservation, making it an ideal wildlife experience for kids in Ireland.

Pricing:

  • Children (Over 10): €15
  • Adults: €25
  • Family Ticket (2 Adults, 2 Kids) €70 (Additional Kids €10)
Family standing in green field with hawk.

Private Family Hawk Walk Experience

Summer Time (June, July & August):
 Daily at 9.00am and 2.30pm

Rest Of Year Round:
 Mid Week 2pm

Saturday & Sunday 9.00am and 2.30pm

For families with older children or teenagers, or those looking for something more personal, a Private Family Falconry Experience offers a deeper, more immersive visit.

This is a 2 hour private session with Willie, where your family gets exclusive access to the birds and the experience.

What’s Included:

  • One to one time with a qualified falconer
  • Handling, flying and feeding birds (age appropriate)
  • A short countryside walk where suitable
  • In depth insight into falconry, training and conservation
  • Plenty of time for photos and questions
  • Use of falconry glove

Pricing:

  • Adult €70 (For first 2, additional adults are €50 each)
  • Child €25

Facilities & Practical Information for Families

We want your visit to be easy and stress free.

On-Site Facilities

Free parking on site
Toilets available
Indoor wildlife center, ideal for wet or cold days
Space for buggies
Picnic friendly areas nearby

Accessibility

Parts of the experience are wheelchair accessible
Please contact us in advance so we can advise on the best options for your visit

Getting Here Without a Car

  • Located close to the Waterford Greenway
  • Take the bus from Waterford City to Dungarvan, we are a 20 minute walk from Kilmacthomas bus stop.
  • Easily combined with walking or cycling on the Greenway
  • Nearby amenities include cafés, lunch spots and local attractions

Combine Your Visit Into a Full Day Out

Many families make a full day of it by combining their visit with:

  • A cycle or walk on the Waterford Greenway
  • Lunch at nearby cafés or local spots
  • Exploring nearby heritage sites in Ireland’s Ancient East
  • An overnight stay in local accommodation or glamping nearby
Cyclists viewing ocean from coastal road.

Safety, Welfare & Peace of Mind

Your family’s safety and the welfare of the birds always comes first.

  • Fully licensed and approved
  • Fully insured
  • All experiences led by a qualified, experienced falconer
  • Strict welfare standards for all birds
  • Group sizes kept manageable and child friendly

Parents can relax knowing everything is run professionally, safely and responsibly.

Man holding barn owl outdoors.

Loved by visitors from Ireland and all over the world

Ready to Plan Your Family Visit?

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, we’d love to welcome you.