Description
Searching for the best things to do with kids in Sligo? Eagles Flying is an exceptional wildlife sanctuary and bird of prey centre where families can view majestic raptors, watch live interactive flight demonstrations, and meet friendly animals. Set across 27 hectares of mature parklands near Ballymote.
Prices start from €19.90 for adults and €10.90 for children aged 3 to 16, with infants under 3 entering for free. Advanced booking is not required, making it a flexible stop for family outings. This expansive open-air venue offers an engaging and educational day out.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines up-close animal encounters with thrilling aerial displays, this destination is a top choice. Its friendly atmosphere and interactive flying shows make it a memorable trip for all ages.
Beyond the Main Attraction:
- Ballymote Castle: The ruins of a massive 13th-century Norman fortress located just a short distance from the sanctuary.
- Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery: Ancient passage tombs set high on the Bricklieve Mountains offering panoramic regional views.
- Gilligans World: A popular local family-friendly children's farm and play area situated nearby.
- Lough Key Forest Park: An expansive recreational park featuring adventure trails, tree canopy walks, and boat tours.
What Visitors Love:
- The chance to see large birds of prey flying right overhead creates a thrilling and immersive family activity.
- Staff members are deeply knowledgeable, highly engaging, and brilliant at answering questions from children during the shows.
- The combination of spectacular bird displays and a friendly petting zoo provides fantastic variety for younger kids.
- Flexible entry policies with no advance booking required make planning a stress-free experience for parents.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- Because shows take place outdoors, unpredicted rain showers can make walking between enclosures chilly if appropriate clothing is forgotten.
- The park paths can get muddy during prolonged wet weather spells, requiring sturdy footwear.
Attractions: Must-See Exhibits & Areas
- Main Show Arena: A large outdoor and indoor seating bowl accommodating over 550 visitors for daily flight shows.
- Raptor Aviaries: Specialized enclosures housing individual species of hawks, falcons, and eagles.
- Owl Woods: Wooded walkthrough paths featuring a wide variety of native and international owl species.
- Small Mammal Zones: Enclosures home to rescued foxes, skunks, and raccoon dogs.
- Petting Farm Area: Dedicated pens where children can safely meet friendly farm goats and sheep.
- Visitor Reception Area: On-site greeting point offering information leaflets and seasonal schedules.
- Gift and Souvenir Kiosk: Retail point offering wildlife books, toys, and educational science souvenirs.
New for 2026:
- Expanded Seating Canopies: Newly upgraded weather-proofing structures installed around the main viewing arena for the 2026 season.
- Refreshed Conservation Displays: Updated educational signage detailing ongoing raptor rehabilitation and breeding programs.
- Enhanced Visitor Pathways: Improved gravel surfacing across core parkland trails to ensure smoother buggy and wheelchair access for 2026.
111.27 miles
