Top 4 UK Birdwatching Tours

1.Inner Farne National Trust Bird Sanctuary – 3 hr trip to the Farne Islands

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 70 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours (approx.) · from $41Our pick

Join George, a current Trinity House Lighthouse Attendant, for a 2.5 to 3-hour boat trip around the Farne Islands. See puffins, Arctic terns, razorbills, seals, lighthouses, and St. Cuthbert’s Chapel, then spend one hour ashore on Inner Farne.

“A fabulous trip, and we were so delighted to see such a variety of birds up close-especially the Puffins, Arctic Terns and their chicks, and Cormorants. The Seal colonies were impressive too. The Chapel was lovely, and the woodwork particularly impressive. We were lucky with the weather, and the only thing that would have improved the outing is the commentary being louder. It was really informative but quite hard to hear over the noise of the engine. Ticket staff, Crew and National Trust staff couldn't have been more helpful or welcoming. Views of the coast- Bamburgh, Lindisfarne, and the beaches- from sea were beautiful. A really great trip with our…”

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2.Private Family Bird of Prey Experience in Carlisle

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 51 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) Top rated

Meet Gary and the birds at Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre for a private, hands-on hour in the Cumbrian countryside. You’ll learn about owls, eagles, falcons, vultures and kestrels, then fly selected birds such as Buzz the Harris hawk under close supervision.

“We had an utterly brilliant day here and didn’t want the experience to end. Gary is absolutely wonderful, you can tell he truly cares and loves his birds. The experience is like no other for any bird lover as getting to fly and feed the birds is just amazing. The care and attention you get during the experience is brilliant too as we felt so welcome. This was a surprise gift for myself from my boyfriend, and it was wonderful. 100% recommend.”

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3.York: York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 43 reviews · from $14Best value

Spend a full day meeting around 100 birds at York Bird of Prey Centre. Handle owls, hawks and eagles with help from the centre team, then watch flying shows at 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. George and Andrew are among the engaging presenters, and a café and children’s play area make this a useful family outing.

“Our hosts were extremely knowledgeable.. such a brilliant day .. will definitely be visiting again 🦉🦅 5 🌟”

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4.Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 39 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Travel south from Lerwick with guides such as Shirley, Danny, Neville, or Mandy to meet Shetland ponies, explore Jarlshof, and watch puffins at Sumburgh Head. This private four-and-a-half-hour tour includes pickup, admissions, and room for your group of up to six.

“We loved the viewing of the Puffins and the Shetland ponies. That was the highlight of the trip. The ruins were very interesting our tour guide Drew was full of so much information about the history of the Norman site. Phil, our driver was very careful and felt very safe with his driving. Drew was a wonderful tour guide and would recommend him .”

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