Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience – Day Tour from Bath

Experience Bath like a local with this 7-hour private tour that combines a walking tour of the city’s iconic sights with an unforgettable hawk-flying adventure. For $359.87 per person, you’ll enjoy personalized attention, expert insights from a guide who knows Bath inside out, and a chance to get your hands on a bird of prey in a rural falconry center.

What we love about this experience is the intimate nature of the guided walking tour, which takes you through the heart of Bath’s most famous landmarks, and the unique opportunity to fly a hawk, an activity that’s both thrilling and deeply connected to centuries-old traditions. Another highlight is the hassle-free transportation—hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle make it ideal for those wanting a worry-free day.

A potential consideration is the weather, as the hawk-flying experience depends on good conditions. If it’s unsuitable, you’ll be offered to fly owls indoors instead—a nice alternative, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re eager to fly a hawk specifically.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded experience of Bath’s sights and a memorable, hands-on activity. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate local insights and are comfortable with a flexible, personalized schedule. Families with children over 8, animal lovers, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy here.

This experience made our article of The Top 6 City Tours In Bath.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring tailored insights from a local guide.
• Concise Itinerary: Combines a detailed walking tour with a rural hawk-flying session, packed into roughly 7 hours.
• Authentic Insights: The guide’s local knowledge brings landmarks like Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge to life.
• Unique Activity: Flying a hawk in a conservation-focused falconry offers a rare, hands-on experience.
• Hassle-Free: Hotel pickup and private transportation eliminate logistical worries.
• Weather Dependence: The hawk experience is subject to good weather, with indoor owl flights as a backup.

Exploring Bath in Depth: A Complete Review

Starting with the City: A Personal Touch on a Classic British Destination

We begin the day with pickup from our hotel, a clear benefit that sets the tone for a relaxed, stress-free experience. Our guide, Daniel, who grew up in Bath, immediately makes us feel at home with his friendly attitude and wealth of local knowledge. The drive to a favorite scenic viewpoint provides a stunning overview of Bath’s elegant Georgian architecture, the Roman Baths, and the lush surroundings. From here, we set out on a walking tour of the city center, which lasts about three hours.

What makes this walking tour stand out is the personalized commentary from Daniel. Unlike large group excursions, this private tour allows for questions, tailored stories, and a relaxed pace. We loved how Daniel pointed out lesser-known details, like the connection between Bath and Jane Austen, as well as the specific features that make landmarks like the Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent so architecturally significant.

Key Landmarks and Stories

The tour includes stops at Bath Abbey, where Daniel shares its fascinating history—without going inside, but enough to spark curiosity. The Roman Baths get a mention; though we don’t enter, the guide explains their importance in making Bath a world-famous spa city. We also see the Circus and the Royal Crescent, both quintessential examples of Georgian grandeur, with lovely architecture and historical residents.

Daniel’s storytelling makes the landmarks feel alive—stories of past residents, architectural quirks, and the city’s underground hot springs. We appreciate the tips on visiting the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can experience the natural hot springs yourself.

Midday: Lunch at a Charming English Pub

After a good dose of sightseeing, we enjoy a relaxing lunch at a traditional pub—an authentic British experience that offers hearty food and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. The timing gives us a chance to rest before the afternoon adventure.

Transition to Nature and Tradition: The Falconry Center

Post-lunch, we head to a non-profit falconry center located in a small village near Bath. The drive itself is scenic, winding through the English countryside. Here, the focus shifts beautifully from city history to the ancient art of falconry. The centre is involved in bird rescue and rehabilitation, adding a meaningful dimension to the experience.

We’re introduced to a variety of birds—hawks, owls, and other raptors—each with its own story. The highlight is the hands-on hawk-flying session, where under the supervision of a seasoned falconer, we get to fly a hawk ourselves. As one reviewer described, “Having a large bird of prey come right to your outstretched hand and land on your arm is something that’s hard to put into words.” The guide helps with positioning and offers tips, making the activity accessible even for first-timers.

The Experience: Awe and Connection

The hawk-flying activity, lasting between 60 and 90 minutes depending on the group, is truly special. We loved the way the birds return to us naturally, and the sense of connection with these majestic creatures is palpable. Plus, the guide is on hand to help with photos, so you’ll leave with memories and snapshots of this extraordinary moment.

In the event of poor weather, indoor owl flights are an alternative, which is a thoughtful backup. If you prefer to fly owls instead of hawks, just inform the guides in advance—they’re happy to accommodate.

Wrap-up and Return

After the falconry experience, we are driven back to Bath, tired but exhilarated. The entire day, from landmarks to bird flight, is seamless thanks to the private transportation and personalized service.

Analyzing the Value: What Does the Cost Cover?

The $359.87 per person fee might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the private guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, exclusive walking tour, and hands-on hawk flying experience, it offers excellent value. Unlike larger, cookie-cutter tours, this one tailors every part to your group, delivering a more engaging and memorable experience.

The price doesn’t just cover transportation and entry; it pays for expert narration, personalized attention, and the rare opportunity to fly a bird of prey—a combination unlikely to be found elsewhere in Bath.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with insightful stories, as well as animal lovers who want a unique hands-on activity. Families with children over 8, photography enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Britain’s rural traditions will find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk experience offers a well-balanced glimpse into one of England’s most charming towns and a chance to connect with its ancient traditions. The personalized approach makes it stand apart from standard sightseeing, and the hawk-flying activity provides a thrill few other tours can match.

We loved the way the guide’s local insights brought Bath’s history to life and how the hawk experience added a memorable, tactile element. The private transit eliminates the hassle of navigating on your own, making this a relaxing yet engaging day out.

If you’re after an authentic, enriching experience that combines history, nature, and a touch of adventure, this tour will fit the bill. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want more than just the usual photos and who appreciate a personal touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers private pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Bath, making it convenient and worry-free.

How long is the walking tour?
The guided walking tour of Bath’s city center lasts approximately three hours, covering landmarks like Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent.

Can I visit the Roman Baths?
While the Roman Baths are mentioned as a highlight, admission is not included, and the tour focuses on viewing landmarks and hearing about their significance.

What is the duration of the hawk-flying experience?
The hawk flying activity takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on how quickly the group feeds and handles the birds.

What if the weather is bad?
The hawk experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, indoor options like flying owls are available, or the experience can be rescheduled.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The hawk flying experience is not suitable for children under 8. The walking tour, however, is appropriate for most ages, especially with a knowledgeable guide.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for photos, and any personal items you need. The tour provides all necessary equipment for the hawk flying.

How many people are in each group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How do I reserve my spot?
Booking can be done online through the provider’s website, with confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This tour offers a great mix of history, culture, and a hands-on wildlife experience—perfect for those who want to see Bath in a new light and remember it for years to come.