Gauntlet Birds of Prey is a brilliant day out. If you are looking to be transported into a world of birds, this is the place for you!
The park first opened in 1996 and is now home to over 180 birds from 50 different species – it’s the largest bird collection in the North West. It’s also one of only a few birds of prey parks in the UK to be a member of The British & Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Gauntlet Birds of Prey was first set up to raise awareness of birds of prey, how they live, hunt and feed, and it certainly does just that! You come away with lots of fun facts about all types of birds.
Things to see and do at Gauntlet Birds of Prey
On arrival, we didn’t know what to expect, and we certainly didn’t realise it was in Knutsford, and so close to Tatton Park and only 30 minutes from where we live in Stockport.
Meet the birds at Gauntlet Birds of Prey
There are daily events that take place throughout the day which include talks, a meet and greet session, and two flying displays. On arrival, there is information given on all the times, and to watch the flying displays you head into the seated arena.
We watched both displays and we were totally blown away…not only did we get up close and personal with a vulture, but we also had an owl fly over our head and without spoiling any surprises the end of the show is quite spectacular and we were all on the edge of our seats. The bird trainers are extremely knowledgeable, and their talks are interesting and very much aimed at families of all ages.
Walk around and see the birds throughout the Park
In between the displays, there are plenty of other birds and animals to see such as the owls, hawks, falcons, and some more unusual residents like the Marabou Stork, Kookaburra, and Caracara! As well as feathered residents at Gauntlet there are also some other furry friends – ferrets, meerkats, and goats. Our kids enjoyed watching the meerkats pop up and down…such cute animals!
Stay and play in the wooden play area at Gauntlet Birds of Prey
As you enter the attraction there’s a wooden play park and sandpit suitable for children under 10 years. This was a huge hit with our children as the play area is shaped like a fort so they had lots of fun running around and play games there. What’s also good about this is there’s plenty of seating for adults to relax and watch the kids play, plus this is situated right next to the café so we enjoyed a hot drink and the kids also enjoyed popping back for snacks!
Food and drink at Gauntlet Birds of Prey
We took our own picnic on our visit, there’s plenty of picnic areas throughout the park with picnic benches and plenty of seating. If you would prefer to buy your own snacks there is a small café serving hot and cold drinks, sweet and savoury snacks and sandwiches. All seemed reasonably priced.
Access and facilities
Gauntlet Birds of Prey is extremely wheelchair and pram-friendly with clear paths and walkways throughout the park. There is also a baby changing area, toilets, and disabled toilet facilities, all were very clean. Parking is free and situated at the front of the park with plenty of spaces available.
Events and parties
Lots of events are hosted throughout the year. Check the website for further details, events do get booked up quickly so don’t miss out!
We cannot recommend a trip to Gauntlet Birds of Prey highly enough, our kids still talk about it today and ask when we will be returning…in fact, it’s on our list to go again for the next half term!
