The history of falconry can be traced back as long ago as 2000 BC, to the Middle and Far East. It was perhaps most popular in medieval England though, where it was the favoured field sport for over four centuries, and the first "Sport of Kings"

Countryman Fairs recognise the significance of this noble sport, and at the Kelmarsh Country Fair we bring together a range of interactive displays that educate and inform visitors about the birds and their heritage. There is also the  opportunity to handle the birds and get up close and personal view of our treasured birds of prey.

Come and join Campaign for Falconry Chairman Terry Large to learn all about birds of prey, fly harris hawks and marvel at the site of the Eagle Owl!

The children’s falconry classrooms are the ultimate countryside hands on experience.  They begin with an introduction to the birds, their history and some of the different terms used in falconry.  Youngsters will be captivated and entertained by expert tutor, Terry Large, who combines the fun of falconry with an important message about conservation.

Once the children have gained the basics, they head to a dedicated flying area where they can handle and fly the birds in front of family friends, suitably coached by Terry.  Terry allows the Harris Haws to fly from child to child, explaining all the time how the birds should be trained and handled.

Finally the highlight of the classroom is a mock-pursuit to demonstrate how a bird will work in the field.

The Falconry classrooms are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for children to take part in one of the countryside’s most noble pursuits.  To book your place you need to register in the morning for one of the three classrooms that take palce throughout the day.  You can register on the day by Visiting Terry Large who is situated on the Main Arena next to the Falconry Club Tent and Ye Olde Redtail Falconry.

Children receive a participation certificate to take home as a reminder of their Falconry experience.