I attended a photographers' day with a friend and we had a superb experience. Peter is the centre's photographer and he understands not only the camera but the birds too. On a previous visit, we sussed that the staff here are ethical and enthusiasts and Peter was no different. The photo experience involved taking some birds in the woods in a more natural setting, private flying, some studio photography and then a really magical half hour taking birds in their flying area at sunset. As you first arrive at the centre and look at the birds in their pens and caves, it looks like there isn't much to do but talk to the staff, get a coffee etc to support them and attend the best displays of birds free flying that I have seen anywhere in the UK. Flying their multitude of black kites at once is a unique experience. A day will "fly" by, I promise!
An amazing place where you are able to interact with an amazing array of birds of prey. Fantastic opportunities to photograph the various birds in flight along with an informative commentary by very knowledgeable staff. Great value for money.
Thank you for your review, the only we can improve the Gauntlet experience is by your comments so it is greatly appreciated. Glad you enjoyed your day, maybe visit us on a sunny day to watch our Marabous fly,Thanks again,Lisa
We live locally and had driven past many times and never called...until today. Really impressed with the amount of birds on display and the fantastic rapport between the handlers and the animals.The staff are very friendly and obviously love their jobs...it was a very cold day today. We loved Scoop the Raven that says hello and the vultures are fabulous but the bald headed eagle was amazing - such an impressive wing span!Definitely plan to go back and maybe even sponsor a bird.
We had booked a 'Family Experience Day' for my son's 9th birthday on a snowy January day. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly and, despite the weather, we all had a fun and interesting day out. I didn't get the impression, like some others, that the birds were badly cared for, but did wonder how often some of them were let out of their cages.I can see that they want to keep their overheads down as much as possible, but the centre could be greatly improved by the addition of a cafe so it's possible to escape the cold.
We went today 28/2 with our 2 children and my inlaws after a stay at the cottons for their Golden Wedding. We all had a fab afternoon and learnt a lot from very passionate and informative staff. I was actually emotional when 20 red kites were flying around over our heads, what a show and such a close encounter. Well worth sitting in the cold for, I think these guys need some more support in the winter months as I'm guessing many visitors come when it's warmer, they are doing so much good. The only downside was it looking a little tired,(stamps need re inking guys) but given they do so much for their charitys its not important.I will definitely be back, and not just in the summer! In- laws said they'd had a day to remember so thanks Gauntlet! :-)
Visited with our local Round Table and it was amazing. We were all able to handle large birds, some of them were rather intimidating, but no-one was persuaded to do more than you were comfortable with. The staff are very knowledgeable and able to answer all manner of questions about the birds.
We came here in early January on a groupon deal not really knowing what to expect. We attended two shows where the staff enthusiastically talked to us about the birds and showing them fly over our heads. One actually hit my head which serves me right for not ducking enough. I think it would be even better to visit in the warmer months. The birds looked superb even if we did see an owl eat a small mouse (dead) whole. I would happily come here again even without a deal.
Having never visited before we wasn`t sure what to expect.The weather was really bad which was a shame as everything was outside.Heather,a member of staff was really jolly and told us some interesting facts about vultures.All the staff were really friendly and the birds were well cared for so I really don`t understand what Boo-louise is going on about seeing as we were there the same day!All in all,a really good day out.
Went with a Groupon voucher, something to do to end the Christmas holidays. Thoroughly enjoyed it, staff friendly and helpful. It was cold but allowed to leave and enter (to warm up in the car) as many times as needed. Beautiful looking birds and great bird displays!! Would happily have paid full amount. Would visit again.