Ashford Falconry School, located on the grounds of the historic Ashford Castle in County Mayo, is Ireland's oldest falconry institution, founded in 1999 by falconers James and Deborah Knight. This renowned school stands at the intersection of tradition and adventure, preserving a heritage of falconry that dates back over 1,000 years in Ireland. With the largest and most diverse collection of Harris's hawks in the world, the school specializes in immersive Hawk Walk experiences, offering visitors a rare opportunity to connect with these majestic birds. The Harris's hawks, renowned for their sociable nature and intelligence, are central to the experience, reflecting their unique role as the only raptors that hunt cooperatively in packs.
The core of the visitor experience is the private Hawk Walk, a hands-on journey through the castle's woodlands and gardens. Participants learn to handle and fly the hawks under the guidance of expert instructors, who share insights into the birds' remarkable eyesight, agility, and individual personalities. Highlights include the exhilarating moment a hawk lands on an outstretched, gloved fist-a sensation described by many as magical. These walks, limited to small groups of up to six, ensure personalized attention and maximize time with the hawks. Instructors also delve into falconry's cultural significance, from its origins as a hunting tradition to its evolution into a revered sport.
Beyond the standard one-hour experience, the school's commitment to conservation and animal welfare shines through its dedication to its birds. All hawks are trained and cared for onsite, never sold, and considered cherished members of the "falconry family". Daily free flights and bespoke care programs reflect their exceptional well-being, praised by licensing inspectors for their "extremely well-managed" environments. Unique touches, such as the hawks' Irish names (like Earrach, meaning "spring") and the chance to interact with an ancient 19-year-old eagle owl named Dingle, add layers of cultural and natural history to the visit. With experiences available year-round and the chance to witness these birds in action regardless of weather, Ashford Falconry School offers a timeless connection to Ireland's wildlife and heritage.
Getting There
The Ashford Falconry School is located on the grounds of Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo. These are the key transportation options for visitors:
Airports
The nearest major airport is Dublin Airport (DUB), approximately 240 km (150 miles) away. A direct drive takes around 3 hours. Flights to Dublin are available globally, with Etihad Airways offering connections from Mumbai and Delhi via Abu Dhabi.
Trains
While there's no direct train to Cong, you can take a train from Dublin to Galway Station, then connect with a local bus service. From Galway, continue via public or private transport (see below).
Bus Routes
- From Galway: Take the Citylink 430 bus to Claremorris, then transfer to the TFI Local Link 431 bus to Cong. The journey takes roughly 1.5-2 hours.
- From Cong Bus Stop: The school is a 15-20 minute walk from the Cong bus stop to Ashford Castle, followed by an additional 10-15 minute walk to the falconry grounds.
Driving Directions
- From Dublin: Head west on the N6/N17, following signs for Galway. Continue toward Cong, totaling approximately 3 hours.
- From Galway: Take the N5 towards Claremorris, then follow Route R311 to Cong. The drive takes about 1 hour.
- To the School: Upon arriving at Ashford Castle, follow the driveway past the golf course to the falconry grounds. Use GPS coordinates for Ashford Castle (Latitude 53.534084, Longitude -9.285250) as the school's own address may not be recognized by all navigation systems.
Local Transport
Guests staying at The Lodge at Ashford Castle can use the hotel's vintage saloon car service (chauffeur-driven) to reach the falconry school from the main castle. For others, a short walk from the castle grounds is required.
Parking
Primary Parking Option
Free parking is available at the Ashford Castle visitor car park, clearly signposted for visitors. This lot is the recommended and most accessible option. Simply follow GPS directions to Ashford Castle, as routes to the Falconry School itself are not directly mapped. The walk from the car park to the school takes approximately 5-7 minutes, offering a scenic path through the estate's grounds.
Accessibility
While specific details about disabled parking are not provided, the castle's visitor facilities typically include accessible options. Visitors with mobility needs are encouraged to contact the Falconry School in advance for assistance.
Alternative Parking During Peak Times
If spaces are limited, consider parking along street parking in nearby villages (such as Cong) as a backup option. However, the castle car park is preferred for its proximity and convenience.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a parking spot.
- No fees or payment methods are required for parking at the castle lot.
Pricing
Admission fees for Ashford Falconry School's Hawk Walk start at €70 per person for a one-hour session. Pricing varies depending on group size and the number of participants flying the Harris' Hawks:
- Groups of 2-6: Total fees range from €140 to €300, with the cost increasing incrementally per additional participant (e.g., €140 for 2 participants, €210 for 3, up to €300 for 4-6).
- Ashford Castle guests may benefit from discounted rates when booking through the hotel's concierge.
Family/Group Discounts:
- Groups of six qualify for a discounted group rate (exact amount unspecified).
- Up to two free spectators are permitted per booking, ideal for non-participating family members.
Additional Costs:
- An extended 90-minute Hawk Walk is available, though pricing details are not provided.
- Equipment and tuition are included in the listed fees.
Booking Notes:
- Reservations must be made in advance via email ([email protected]) or phone (094 954 6820).
- Sessions are weather-dependent and may be canceled.
Payment methods and season passes are not specified in available information.
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