Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary

Tucked away in a quiet corner near the town of Blackpool lies a remarkable place — the Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary. This is more than just a zoo; it is a genuine rescue and rehabilitation center that is home to over 90 feathered residents. Here, in the United Kingdom, dedicated volunteers devote their lives to caring for majestic eagles, swift falcons, wise owls, and even exotic vultures.

Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

What makes this sanctuary special is its non-profit nature: it is entirely volunteer-run, and all proceeds from visits go directly toward veterinary care and bird maintenance. Visitors appreciate the genuine atmosphere and the chance to see birds of prey in spacious aviaries, where they receive expert care and enjoy regular flight training.

The sanctuary is considered one of the most heartwarming spots in Lancashire. High ratings and glowing reviews confirm that the close encounter with nature and the staff's deep knowledge make a visit here unforgettable for both adults and children.

For more information on special programs or visiting conditions, you can use the official communication channels. The staff and volunteers are always ready to answer questions about their birds.

The highlight of the day at the sanctuary is the spectacular flying display, which usually takes place at 12:30 PM. During the show, the birds of prey showcase their natural skills, swooping right over the audience's heads and gracefully landing on the volunteers' gloves. The show is interactive — some guests might even have the chance for a bird to land right on their hand or shoulder.

In addition to watching the flights, you can take photos of the center's residents and talk to experienced falconers, who are happy to share interesting facts about their favorites' habits. For those seeking a more immersive experience, special Owl & Hawk Experience programs or falconry courses are available, where you can learn how to correctly hold a bird and manage its flight.

There is no need for advance booking for regular visits — tickets can be purchased on-site. After meeting the birds, you can stop by the cozy cafe located in the adjacent garden center for a snack and a chat about your experience. This place is perfect for a family day out, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the world of wildlife in a friendly and safe environment.

The sanctuary is located at Chain House Ln, Preston PR4 4LB, and entrance to the grounds is through the local Turbary Woods garden center. This is a very convenient location for those traveling through the North West of England.

If you are traveling from Blackpool city center by car, the journey will take approximately 30–40 minutes via the highway. There is free parking on-site for visitors, making driving the most convenient option.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regular services from Preston. From the train station or the central bus station, you can take a local bus followed by a short walk to the entrance. Alternatively, you can always use a taxi, which will easily take you right to the gates of the garden center.

The Turbary Woods sanctuary is a unique project that thrives solely on the enthusiasm and dedication of its volunteers. As a non-profit organization, the center directs every penny from ticket sales toward the care, medical treatment, and feeding of its residents. The environment is designed to be as natural as possible, with birds living in spacious aviaries and getting daily opportunities for free flight.

Interestingly, the local owls are true movie stars. For instance, a European owl named Checkers made it to the big screen, appearing in the film "Her" directed by Spike Jonze. The sanctuary's birds are frequent participants in television and documentary projects, thanks to their calm nature and excellent training.

Many funny and touching stories are associated with the sanctuary. Once, during a wedding ceremony, an owl acting as the ring bearer decided to change the script: instead of a dramatic landing, it flew up to the rafters of the building right after diving toward the bride. Despite the delay, it became the most talked-about and memorable moment of the celebration, which guests still reminisce about today.

The center's staff humorously note that despite their fierce appearance, many owls are quite lazy by nature. They prefer to spend their time resting unless they are engaged in active training. This deep understanding of each bird's personality is what makes the volunteers' work truly valuable and essential for preserving these majestic creatures.

A standard tour of the grounds and meeting all the residents usually takes about 2–3 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely walk past the aviaries, chat with the volunteers, and catch the main daily show.

If you plan to attend the flying display, which traditionally starts at 12:30 PM, it is worth arriving a bit earlier. For those booking special programs, such as a falconry day or photo sessions, the visit may last half a day or even a full day, as these activities involve a much deeper immersion into interacting with the birds.

The sanctuary is open to visitors daily, offering guests the chance to see the birds during the first half of the day. According to the current schedule, the center's doors are open during the following hours:

• Monday — Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Please note that the most exciting event — the flying demonstrations — usually begins at 12:30 PM. It is recommended to arrive at opening time to see the aviaries before the show starts and to secure good seats.

Exploring the surrounding area after visiting the sanctuary can significantly enrich your trip. The Lancashire region offers many options for active family holidays, from modern amusement parks to water attractions.

The proximity to the coast and major entertainment centers allows you to plan a full day's itinerary. Below is a list of interesting places within easy reach: