Living Tradition
We honour falconry as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, practising and teaching it with the same reverence it has commanded for over 4,000 years.
Our Story
Guardians of an
Ancient Tradition
We are a small team of dedicated falconers rooted in the heart of Ireland, bound together by a deep reverence for birds of prey and the timeless art of falconry.
Who We Are
Born from the Irish Land, Shaped by the Sky
Falconry in Ireland was founded in the early 2000s by Ciarán Ó'Sullivan, a third-generation falconer from Co. Offaly who inherited both the craft and the passion from his grandfather. What began as a personal pursuit became a mission: to share the wonder of falconry with Ireland and the world.
Based along the serene banks of the River Shannon, our centre sits within one of Ireland's most historically rich landscapes — the same ancient terrain where monks, chieftains, and Norman lords once practiced this noble art centuries ago.
Today, our team of five licensed falconers and raptor handlers continues that legacy, welcoming visitors from across the globe to witness and participate in a living piece of human heritage.
20+
Years of
falconry heritage
What Drives Us
Our Core Values
Raptor Welfare
The wellbeing of our birds is paramount. Every raptor in our care lives in species-appropriate conditions and is handled only by trained professionals following strict ethical standards.
Education First
We believe that understanding breeds respect. Every experience we offer is rooted in education — helping visitors connect deeply with both the birds and Ireland's natural heritage.
The People Behind the Birds
Meet Our Team
Each member of our team brings unique expertise and an unshakeable passion for raptors and the Irish countryside.
Ciarán Ó'Sullivan
Founder & Head Falconer
Third-generation falconer with over 25 years of experience. Licensed by the Irish National Parks and Wildlife Service and trained in classical Arab falconry techniques.
Siobhán McCarthy
Raptor Trainer & Education Officer
A BSc graduate in Zoology from UCD, Siobhán leads all educational programmes and is responsible for the training and enrichment of our owl collection.
Pádraig Brennan
Falconry Guide & Experience Leader
Pádraig leads our heritage walks and beginner sessions, combining his deep knowledge of Irish history with an infectious enthusiasm for raptors and the outdoors.
UNESCO Recognised
A Living Art, Recognised by the World
In 2016, falconry was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity — a recognition shared by 24 nations, including Ireland. This inscription celebrates falconry not merely as a sport, but as a profound bond between humans and birds that has endured for millennia.
We carry this recognition with immense pride, ensuring every experience we offer reflects the cultural depth and ethical standards that earned falconry its place on this prestigious list.
Explore Our Heritage
Where to Find Us
Heart of Ireland's Ancient Midlands
Our centre is located in Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly — a place steeped in history, nestled between the River Shannon and the great Bog of Allen. The same bogland vistas that stretch before you today were home to Ireland's earliest falconers.
-
Address
Clonmacnoise Road, Shannonbridge,
Co. Offaly, R42 VX90, Ireland -
Phone
+353 87 412 6738 -
20+
Years of Experience
30+
Raptors in Our Care
10k+
Visitors Welcomed
24
UNESCO Nations
Join Us
Experience Falconry for Yourself
Whether you're a first-time visitor curious about birds of prey, or a history enthusiast seeking a deeper connection with Ireland's past, we have an experience crafted just for you.