(Bird Flu restrictions permitting)
If you love parrots, care about their welfare, and want to learn about the conservation issues affecting them, then you will love our parrot experience. We are the only aviary in the UK & Europe where you can truly be surrounded by parrots great & small (not verified). From cockatiels, to conures, to greys, amazons & the majestic macaws, you will be present amongst them all in their naturally enriched environment.
This is not an experience where parrots are forced to interact with you, but some will – it’s about their choice. After a safety briefing, you will then start to learn about the conservation issues affecting parrots, the problems they encounter in the pet trade and the associated welfare issues.
After this you will enter the aviary at ‘walnut time’ (a daily enrichment activity that allows us to check all our flock and monitor their health). You can either help with this task or just enjoy watching the process. The largest characters are often the smallest parrots and they will be ‘up close and personal’ with you. However, as all our parrots live in an ecosystem rather than a single species aviary, you will be immersed in their world and be part of their aviary for the duration.
Throughout the experience, you will be closely supervised and will be guided throughout. You will leave with memories, walnuts in your hair, and possibly poo on your clothes, but most importantly, a far greater understanding of the conservation and welfare issues affecting parrots.
Please read the information below which outlines the terms & conditions.
Terms & Conditions
– The cost is £50 per person and is non-refundable.
– The experiences last approx 1 hour.
– The experiences start at 11.00am unless an alternative time has been agreed.
– The maximum number of people that can take part is 6.
– The minimum age to take part in these experiences is 12 years old unless this has been discussed and agreed by both parties.
– Children under 14 must be always accompanied by a responsible adult.
– The experiences are guided by a suitably trained member of staff.
– You are not permitted to enter the aviary unaccompanied.
– A safety briefing is provided beforehand. Failure to follow instructions will result in removal without a refund.
– Parrots are tamed wild animals, not domesticated pets. They may scratch, nip, bite, or cause injury.
– Birds may land on you or climb on you, and some parrots may bite. Do not touch any parrot without permission.
– Wear long sleeves and long trousers to reduce the risk of scratches.
– Expect bird droppings or bite marks on clothing so wear something suitable.
– PPE is available. If you decline PPE or wear unsuitable clothing, you accept full responsibility.
– No jewellery is allowed in the aviary. You can store items in provided bags at your own risk.
– No bags, food, or drink are allowed in the aviary.
– No strong perfumes, aftershave, or strong deodorants.
– If you own any birds, wear clean, freshly washed clothing. Budgie owners must change their clothes before returning home.
– You must wear CLEAN wellies. We can supply some for a small fee.
– All footwear must be disinfected in our footbath before entry.
– Handwashing is mandatory after leaving the aviary.
– Please notify staff of any relevant medical conditions (including but not limited to):
Asthma, COPD, Epilepsy, Diabetes, Deafness, Blindness, Heart Conditions, Immunodeficiency, Neurological issues.
– If you have a cold (not allergies), you must wear a mask.
– THIS EXPERIENCE IS NOT SUITABLE FOR ANYONE WITH ANY NUT ALLERGIES.
– You may take photos, but parrots may land on or bite your equipment.
– All personal devices are your responsibility.
– We reserve the right to deny entry or end the experience for safety or welfare concerns, with no refund.
– No smoking is permitted anywhere on the premises.
– The outside toilet with hand washing facilities is located opposite the cottage.
– If you arrive late, it is the sanctuary staff’s decision whether the experience will go ahead. You will not be given a refund.
Rules whilst on site
- Please use the portable toilet provided – or risk being asked to leave immediately
- No alcohol or drugs
- No smoking by the lake. smoking is only permitted at the rear of the car park and cigarette butts must be disposed of correctly
- No naked flames
- Please limit your noise – for the sake of others fishing and guests accommodated in the shepherd huts.
- Please do not wonder around the site.
- Barbless hooks only to be used
- If you have a dog with you, they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions By Guests
On-site Accommodation
Morndyke Cottage
Tucked beside our farmhouse, this beautifully finished two-bedroom cottage offers a peaceful country escape with a touch of luxury. French doors open onto a private patio with fire pit, perfect for relaxed evenings under Yorkshire skies. Enjoy on-site fishing lakes and scenic rural walks. Beyond the garden lies the UK’s second-largest parrot sanctuary.
Morndyke Shepherds’ Huts
Escape to a pair of cosy shepherds huts tucked beside tranquil fishing lakes and open countryside, just a short drive from Thirsk. Perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking peace and fresh air, these huts combine rustic charm with comfort and character.
