The abbey grounds play host to a recreation of the art of Medieval falconry in a unique fusion of history, folklore and nature. Join the specialist falconers of Raphael Historic Falconry as they reveal how the high Middle Ages saw English falconry reach its pinnacle and take its place among the fine arts.

Instruction in the art of hunting with hawk was considered a necessary part of noble education and there was great prestige associated with ownership of a bird. The Kings of the day enjoyed lavish falconry hunts during which falcons would be flown at feathered game, and knights would hunt with military-style hawks as a form of training. Our great Medieval households had their game larders stocked by hawks and hounds, even high ranking members of the clergy flew hawks and sold them for revenue!

This noble art will be recreated in live action by a beautiful cast of hawks, owls and falcons flown at intervals during the day accompanied by a delightful story-style commentary. Between demonstrations visitors can view the hawk collection at rest in the medieval hawk mews and chat to the noble falconers.

Schedule for each day:

10.00 - The Medieval Hawk Mews opens for viewing.

11.15 - Medieval Falconry Display – Hawking for the table and for sport.

12.45 - Tales from the Medieval Mews – Facts and stories told from the tent.

14.00 - Medieval Falconry Display – Hunting with hawk and hound.

15.15 - Medieval Falconry Display – Sport and courtly love.

16.00 - Hawk Mews closes.

Displays last approx. 30 - 40 minutes. Flying is weather dependent. Every display is different.

If wind or rain prevent flying, there will be presentations given from the Hawk Mews instead.

The Art of Medieval Falconry is an activity that is included within the cost of admission to the abbey. 

This is a Glastonbury Abbey fundraising event.