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Festival Park Owl Sanctuary, Ebbw Vale

Discover rescued birds of prey up close in a peaceful woodland sanctuary run by dedicated volunteers in Ebbw Vale.

4.5

Festival Park Owl Sanctuary in Ebbw Vale is a volunteer-run wildlife refuge caring for over 50 birds of prey, including owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles. Nestled within a tranquil woodland setting, it offers visitors an intimate look at rescued birds that cannot survive in the wild. Open daily with free entry, the sanctuary relies on donations and provides educational talks and close-up encounters, making it a unique and family-friendly attraction in South Wales.

A brief summary to Festival Park Owl Sanctuary

  • Festival Park, Ebbw Vale, Victoria, NP23 8FP, GB
  • +447805677473
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during feeding times for a lively glimpse of the owls and birds in action.
  • Check the schedule for educational talks to deepen your understanding of bird conservation.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning variety of birds and the tranquil woodland setting.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on woodland paths within the sanctuary.
  • Remember there are no toilets on site, so plan accordingly before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Travelers can reach Festival Park Owl Sanctuary by car via the A465 dual carriageway. Parking is available free on-site. Depending on your starting point in Gwent, local roads connect to the A465 and then to Festival Park. Travel times vary but generally range from 20 to 40 minutes from nearby towns.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Ebbw Vale Parkway station, the nearest rail access point. From there, local bus services (numbers 22 or 23) run toward Ebbw Vale town center, with a stop near Festival Park. The sanctuary is a short 10-15 minute walk from the bus stop. Bus fares typically cost around £2.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the vicinity of Festival Park, the Owl Sanctuary is accessible on foot via well-marked woodland paths. The walk from the nearest bus stop or parking area takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes over gentle terrain suitable for most visitors.

Festival Park Owl Sanctuary location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Festival Park Owl Sanctuary

A Haven for Birds of Prey in South Wales

Festival Park Owl Sanctuary is a dedicated refuge located within Festival Park, Ebbw Vale, caring for a diverse collection of over 50 birds of prey. These include species such as owls, hawks, falcons, buzzards, eagles, and vultures sourced from around the world. Many of these birds are rescued individuals who require lifelong care due to injuries or inability to survive in the wild. The sanctuary operates entirely through volunteer efforts and donations, emphasizing conservation and education.

Immersive Wildlife Experience Amidst Peaceful Woodlands

Set in a serene woodland environment, the sanctuary offers visitors a peaceful and scenic backdrop to observe these majestic birds up close. The layout allows for intimate viewing and interaction, with knowledgeable volunteers providing insights into each species’ behavior, habitat, and conservation status. Visitors often witness nesting barn owls and can sometimes interact with large birds such as eagle owls, enhancing the immersive experience.

Volunteer-Driven and Donation Supported

The sanctuary is entirely staffed by passionate volunteers who share their expertise and love for birds of prey. Entry is free, but visitors are encouraged to contribute donations to support ongoing care and maintenance. The sanctuary’s reliance on community support highlights its grassroots nature and dedication to animal welfare rather than commercial gain.

Visiting Hours and Seasonal Variations

Open seven days a week, the sanctuary’s hours vary seasonally. During winter term time, it operates from 10am to 1pm, extending to 10am to 2pm during school holidays. In summer, opening hours generally run from 10am to 4pm daily. Visitors should note the absence of onsite toilets and plan accordingly. The sanctuary’s compact size means visits typically last around one to two hours.

Educational Opportunities and Family Appeal

The sanctuary hosts educational talks and feeding sessions that provide engaging learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. It is particularly suited for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation. The tranquil setting combined with the chance to see a variety of birds of prey makes it a rewarding outing.

Supporting Conservation in the Blaenau Gwent Valleys

Festival Park Owl Sanctuary plays a vital role in local conservation efforts, acting as a sanctuary for injured and non-releasable birds while raising public awareness. It stands as a treasured community asset in the Blaenau Gwent Valleys, fostering respect and care for wildlife through direct experience and education.

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