Rare Breeds Centre
Rare Breeds Centre
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
100 ACRES OF FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY!
Meet the Animals all day in our Children’s Barn where you can say hello and stroke our friendly animals including rabbits, guinea pigs and piglets and learn more about them from our friendly farm team.
See our many other animal friends from majestic Rhona, our beautiful Shire Horse, to Mini the Shetland - and our donkeys, pigs, sheep, goats and many more down on the Farm.
We have Falconry every day at 2.30pm and tractor-trailer rides during schools holidays and at weekends.
When you’re feeling hungry…our newly refreshed Granary Restaurant is now open! Keep warm and enjoy some delicious food indoors in our beautiful restaurant. The restaurant is open from 10am to 4pm for hot drinks and snacks, hot food options are available from 11am to 3pm.
There’s also hot food and drink options across the farm. Pop to our Cabin (within the playground area) or the Trailer (opposite the Discovery Zone) for tasty snacks.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
Features animals
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
634 reviews
Excellent
460
Very good
126
Average
28
Poor
8
Terrible
12
Adrian D
1 contribution
Oct 2022 • Family
I booked a 2 hour bird of prey experience for my wife which was recommended by a friend who also has a love for all falconry. On the day, we met Colin who was the falconry expert, my wife was able to hold the different birds while Colin introduced us to each one, he then showed and explained he’s job and how he builds trust with the birds in order to fly them. Later my wife had the opportunity to fly the different birds with the help of Colin which was just amazing and made for some great photos. Just wanted to say a big thank you to Colin who made the experience so enjoyable my wife was absolutely over the moon with being able to be that close to the birds and also to have the opportunity to fly them too, it was such an amazing day and I would highly recommend it to family and friends!
Written November 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Christine E
London, UK38 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
We are regular visitors to this wonderful centre. It adds to the pleasure to know that your visits help support the folk who work there. The children love the barn, the staff are very helpful, the chickens are silly, butterflies amazing and all the play areas and animals are fun.
I bought my grandson a two hour falconery experience with Colin for a birthday present. It was the best experience ever. Colin is really knowledgeable, kind and informative. They set up the animals for the demonstration in which my grandson played an active part - and was proud to do so. They then spent an hour on a trip into woods where they saw how the birds hunt, return and generally behave in a natural habitat. So much incidental learning under the guise of a treat. Not just about the birds but also the responsibility for proper care!
He hasn’t stopped talking about the birds - especially the owl called Horace - misnamed horrible Horace because he sometimes does not cooperate which is fine. He’s not at all horrible really!
His sister is now thinking she would love the same.
Thank you Colin. We had a great time.
I bought my grandson a two hour falconery experience with Colin for a birthday present. It was the best experience ever. Colin is really knowledgeable, kind and informative. They set up the animals for the demonstration in which my grandson played an active part - and was proud to do so. They then spent an hour on a trip into woods where they saw how the birds hunt, return and generally behave in a natural habitat. So much incidental learning under the guise of a treat. Not just about the birds but also the responsibility for proper care!
He hasn’t stopped talking about the birds - especially the owl called Horace - misnamed horrible Horace because he sometimes does not cooperate which is fine. He’s not at all horrible really!
His sister is now thinking she would love the same.
Thank you Colin. We had a great time.
Written August 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TenaciousHobden
Eastbourne, UK651 contributions
Apr 2022
We booked a 1 hour falconry experience for a family of three which included entry. In short: amazing experience really reasonably priced and Colin was super knowledgeable. We met several birds up close and personal even a large owl , flying one ( a Harris Hawk). We learnt so much about these amazing creatures.
The rest of the park is great also - focusing on engaging with the animals - from farm animals to birds.
Super day out and even better that it supports a great charity.
The rest of the park is great also - focusing on engaging with the animals - from farm animals to birds.
Super day out and even better that it supports a great charity.
Written April 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark C
Faversham, UK170 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Our visit was a day of 2 halves with the attraction itself scoring very well but the cafe value for money letting it down badly.
The attraction has more to see than I was expecting, with birds of prey and beautiful woodland walks alongside farm animals. There wasn’t an actual birds of prey display on on the day of our visit but was invited by the handler to come and watch one of the birds having its training flights which was very appreciated.
The woodland walk is a definite dry weather activity as some of the paths were a little boggy a day after having rained in the area. Some of the animals are available to pet and are very approachable and in the present climate there was plenty of opportunity to wash hands around the site.
The cafe that was able to be open, was closed, with limited service to an outside seating area via order and collection hatches. The prices were quite high and the food not of expected quality £5 for a pre packed sandwich, tuna & sweet corn, cheese & ham etc.
The attraction has more to see than I was expecting, with birds of prey and beautiful woodland walks alongside farm animals. There wasn’t an actual birds of prey display on on the day of our visit but was invited by the handler to come and watch one of the birds having its training flights which was very appreciated.
The woodland walk is a definite dry weather activity as some of the paths were a little boggy a day after having rained in the area. Some of the animals are available to pet and are very approachable and in the present climate there was plenty of opportunity to wash hands around the site.
The cafe that was able to be open, was closed, with limited service to an outside seating area via order and collection hatches. The prices were quite high and the food not of expected quality £5 for a pre packed sandwich, tuna & sweet corn, cheese & ham etc.
Written October 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
emma1989Kent
Dover, UK244 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
We went to Rare breeds for my son's 5th Birthday There were 4 adults a 5 year old and a 12 year old we had a great day out, we got to see some piglets, lambs and chicks. They loved the tractor ride. We had some chips for lunch they were really nice and prices were fair. The gift shop was shut but could see stuff from the outside and they could tell the member of staff what they wanted My son spent £13 he got 3 stretchy animals, a snake and a grown your own chick egg the prices were very reasonable. We will definitely be returning.
Written April 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
dab36
Ashford, UK17 contributions
Oct 2021
I was very fortunate to have a full day falconry experience. This had been delayed almost 2 years because of the pandemic but it was well worth the wait. Colin was an excellent host for the day, very informative and very skilful. The birds were extremely beautiful and the first swoop to my glove by a red-tailed hawk was quite literally breath-taking. I felt very involved all day and happily took part in the afternoon display, and although Horace the eagle owl was intimidating because of his sheer size his behaviour was exemplary. It was an interesting and exciting day and I highly recommend it.
Written October 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Scott D
12 contributions
May 2022 • Family
Simple entry with tickets checked in the carpark rather than at a booth entry. Animal handling area was very good with different tame animals for our little one to interact with to help build her confidence up with animals. All the animals looked in good health and most had ample room, though I'd like to see all animals with masses of space. A number of play areas outside with different activities and a good indoor soft play. The tractor ride and walking routes were a nice touch too.
Fortunately we took a pack up as there wasn't much choice for vegans and both the cafe and shop were closed up with only small serving fronts outside to be served at, probably kept on after the pandemic but felt quite impersonal. Cakes, scones etc would be a nice addition to the standard burgers, chips and sandwiches. Plenty of seating outside and thankfully the weather was nice, otherwise it would have been a nightmare.
Overall a fantastic place with plenty to keep you occupied and would recommend to visit.
Fortunately we took a pack up as there wasn't much choice for vegans and both the cafe and shop were closed up with only small serving fronts outside to be served at, probably kept on after the pandemic but felt quite impersonal. Cakes, scones etc would be a nice addition to the standard burgers, chips and sandwiches. Plenty of seating outside and thankfully the weather was nice, otherwise it would have been a nightmare.
Overall a fantastic place with plenty to keep you occupied and would recommend to visit.
Written May 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jacky S
Faversham, UK19 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
I bought my grandson the Bird of Prey two hour experience and it was worth every penny. Colin, is a passionate and skilled falconer who explained in great detail everything my Grandson needed to know about falconry and how to look after, and fly, the birds; he didn't stop talking about what he'd learnt when he got home. Sadly we didn't have time to explore the rest of the park but have been before and loved it. I was very happy to find all covid secure mitigations still in place despite legal regulations having been lifted. It made me feel safe despite the rising cases locally. I thoroughly recommend this as a very special treat if children, or adults, have an interest in these beautiful birds.
Written July 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
HerneBayBlonde
Herne Bay, UK65 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
Thoroughly enjoyed our family day out. We went as a group family with kids ranging from 4 weeks old to 12 years old. Staff were helpful and friendly, animals were fun to see and very well priced for tickets, can’t comment on the food as we took a packed lunch. Would definitely go again
Written August 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Emma S
Maidstone, UK5 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
We’ve always loved our visits to the rare breeds centre in Woodchurch but this year’s visit was extra special because we booked a family falconry experience for a birthday surprise for my partner and 10 year old daughter. It really was an absolute delight.
We met Colin, the head Falconer, who took us on a tour around the bird enclosures and answered our questions. He is very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. He has a wealth of expertise and experience and really made our tour enjoyable as well as informative.
We then got to hold several of the magnificent birds and see them up close which was amazing. They are clearly very well cared for and in great health which was lovely to see.
At the end of the experience we got to fly them which truly was the highlight of our day. We flew a Eurasian owl and a Harris hawk in the arena and then the hawk again in the trees and field.
It was truly a breathtaking and thrilling experience. One we won’t forget any time soon.
We would all definitely recommend it. And our thanks goes to Colin and the birds for making the experience so enjoyable and memorable.
We met Colin, the head Falconer, who took us on a tour around the bird enclosures and answered our questions. He is very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. He has a wealth of expertise and experience and really made our tour enjoyable as well as informative.
We then got to hold several of the magnificent birds and see them up close which was amazing. They are clearly very well cared for and in great health which was lovely to see.
At the end of the experience we got to fly them which truly was the highlight of our day. We flew a Eurasian owl and a Harris hawk in the arena and then the hawk again in the trees and field.
It was truly a breathtaking and thrilling experience. One we won’t forget any time soon.
We would all definitely recommend it. And our thanks goes to Colin and the birds for making the experience so enjoyable and memorable.
Written September 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AlannaRandall
Maidstone, UK58 contributions
How long would you say it takes to go round
Becky W
Hastings, UK179 contributions
If you have children then 4 to 5 hours at a push if not easily around 3 hours.
Jogoldfish
19 contributions
What age do you have to be to get a senior ticket?
Marc W
Ashford, UK257 contributions
I believe 65 with proof.
Wendy234
Royal Tunbridge Wells, UK4 contributions
As a season ticket holder for myself and my grandson I have just returned from a visit to the Rare Breeds Centre and, unusually for us, decided to have something in the Granary restaurant. It must have been about 3.30 on a very busy Saturday (to-day) and my grandson wanted anything with chips but there was nothing hot or sandwiches on offer. He, therefore, chose a chocolate muffin with some smarties on the topping and a bottle of Coke. On arriving at the cash desk I was very surprised to be asked for £6.50! After getting him seated I was going back to get a coffee and cake for myself but, at this price, I didn't bother and won't hurry to return to the restaurant again. The table where we sat had not been cleaned and there was a lot of food under the table, including a whole cake which my grandson picked up and nearly ate.
Apart from this I have always enjoyed fun filled days with my grandson at the Rare Breeds Centre which has improved each year and seems very well run. I also applaud the work they are doing by having maybe slightly less able people working alongside them. But please, please revise your pricing for one cup cake & a bottle of coke!
RareBreeds
Woodchurch, UK
Thank you for getting in touch to tell us about your experience at the weekend - we always greatly appreciate feedback from our visitors.
I am very sorry to hear that you didn't have a good experience in the Granary Restaurant on Saturday. We strive to provide an excellent level of cleanliness, and I'm sorry that on this occasion we were unable to. I have passed your feedback to the Catering Manager.
I have also sent you my email address, so that we can speak directly about your query regarding the cost of your food.
I am pleased, however to hear that you had an enjoyable day, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.
malcolm n
London, UK
When are you open. What are your addmision prices and do you do, wild bird exsperiances & what price?
RareBreeds
Woodchurch, UK
Hi Malcolm, thanks for your question.
During the winter (until the end of March) we are open Tuesday to Sunday 10.30 to 16.30 (closed on Mondays) and then from April onwards we are open every day between 10.30 and 17.30.
Our admission prices can be found on our website - they vary depending on when you visit us.
We do offer a Falconry Experience, and you will be also be able to find these details on our website, including contact information. Alternatively, you can call us on 01233 861508.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Rare Breeds Centre (Woodchurch) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Rare Breeds Centre
- Rare Breeds Centre is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Hotels near Rare Breeds Centre:
- (3.96 mi) Broadhembury Caravan and Camping Park
- (8.31 mi) Saltcote Place Rye
- (8.36 mi) The Big Cat Sanctuary Overnight Big Cat Experience
- (8.20 mi) Swallowtail Hill
- (9.04 mi) Rye Windmill B&B
- Restaurants near Rare Breeds Centre:
- (0.03 mi) Granary Restaurant
- (4.75 mi) Montalbano
- (1.09 mi) Bonny Cravat
- (7.38 mi) KOYLA
- (7.45 mi) The Dog House Micropub and Vinyl Bar