A HARRIS hawk swoops towards me - for a split second I feel like a mouse beneath the shadow of a bird of prey.

I’m struck by how graceful the mighty bird is as he lands on my gloved hand. He looks perfectly at ease, before taking off again. The hawk is one of 20 birds of prey at the falconry centre on the Coniston Hotel estate. Nestled between Skipton and Settle, the 1,400-acre estate, owned by the Bannister family for over 50 years, offers a range of outdoor pursuits, from fishing in the tranquil lake to off-road driving.

Mr partner and I begin with delicious brunch, scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for me, home-cured Yorkshire bacon and sausage for him, in the rustic Huntsman’s Lodge. Then it’s on to the falconry centre where we meet owls, hawks, falcons and eagles, and witness them in flight. Friendly instructor Matt tells us the birds are free to fly off, but always come back. “They go by visuals - they see the barn and know it’s home. Birds of prey are pretty lazy and only hunt if they have to; they know I’m here with a plentiful supply of food, so they come home,” he smiles.

A young white barn owl, Ernie, (his brother is Eric), flies to my outstretched hand, where a piece of chicken awaits. A group of children among the visitors are thrilled to handle the birds. It’s a fabulous hands-on experience, and a privilege to be close to such magnificent creatures.

Later, following a guided tour of the estate, we head for the off-road centre which offers a range of driving experiences in a mix of vehicles, from a Landrover Defender to a Mitsubishi L200, supervised by BORDA-qualified instructors. Taking to the wheel in a Landrover Discovery, we make our way up and down steep, rocky slopes and through water, getting used to ways the vehicle moves and reacts. The terrain and obstacles are designed to push vehicles to the limits; there’s even a flight of concrete steps which, somehow, the vehicle manages to climb and descend. It gets the bones shaking and the blood pumping - a totally new experience of driving, and an exhilarating adventure.

After that we unwind in the state-of-the-art Thermal Spa, swimming in the pool and reclining in the sauna and steam room, and I enjoy a deep-cleansing facial, one of many treatments on offer. An outdoor infinity pool overlooks the beautiful surroundings of the estate.

Our spacious, elegant bedroom looks out onto the lake and the rolling hills of the Dales beyond. Sitting on the balcony, soaking up the early evening sun, it feels like a special place to be.

Making the most of the summer evening, we dine al fresco from the Macleod’s restaurant “estate on a plate” menu. I start with cured chalk stream trout, spiced avocado and Jersey Royals, followed by delicious stone bass with beetroot orzo and samphire, and Nick tucks into the seared beef fillet, with baby cap mushrooms and confit shallots. Other choices include Holme Farm venison and lamb rump. With desserts such as warm date pudding and Coniston Cherry Bakewell Cocktail, we’re spoilt for choice. I opt for a tasty sour cherry sorbet and Nick has a three cheese board with oatmeal biscuits and quince.

Next morning, after a hearty Yorkshire Breakfast, we’re driven to the Coniston Shooting Ground, one of the best in the country, for a clay pigeon shooting lesson. We pull up outside a magnificent lodge which we learn was brought over from Canada, log by log, and re-built. Inside, a log fire takes pride of place and hot drinks and snacks are served.

Our excellent instructor, Allan Gee, hands us a shotgun each, showing us how to hold them safely, and we make our way around a series of shooting stands. Having never used a gun before, I’m a total beginner but, under Allan’s expert guidance, I get the hang of aiming for the clay discs as they’re released into the air. The knack is to keep the gun moving, and aim just below the target. It’s satisfying to hit a target - I hit more than I’d expected, and the stand I do the best on is a fast one, with three discs released in a row. There’s a lot to take in, but it’s a thrilling experience and well recommended for a day out with a difference. There are also lessons in air rifle shooting and archery.

I'm impressed with how much there is to do this lovely estate. The range of activities means it offers so much more than just a hotel - perfect for an active weekend away with friends or family, or a relaxing spa break. 

All too soon our stay is ending, but not before a delightful afternoon tea on the terrace, overlooking the lake. Fruit scones and clotted cream, lemon tart, chocolate eclairs and sandwiches including cucumber and cream cheese and Coronation chicken are among the treats served.

With friendly staff, a gorgeous setting and exhilarating outdoor activities, this had been a fabulous country hotel experience.

* The Coniston Hotel, Country Estate and Spa, Coniston Cold, Skipton. Visit theconistonhotel.com or call (01756) 748080.