Get fantastic views of ospreys at the viewpoint at Dodd Wood, and watch live pictures from an osprey nest at Whinlatter visitor centre.

Lake District Osprey Project

1 April to 31 August

Set against the backdrop of some of Lakeland's finest scenery, our open-air viewpoint at Dodd Wood provides dramatic views of ospreys.

Watch the amazing spectacle of ospreys fishing as they plunge into the still waters of Bassenthwaite then struggle to break free of the water with a fish firmly grasped in their talons.

At the Forestry Commission's Whinlatter visitor centre join us for rare and intimate insights into the behaviour of ospreys. Our camera inside the nest gets you close to the action from egg-laying through to the first flights of the young.

Friendly staff will be on hand to help you learn more about the journey these fantastic birds make to our shores each year, how they are perfectly adaptated for fishing, and tell you more about the great conservation success story that has meant ospreys are now nesting in England after a 150 year absence.

The viewpoint is free. However, there are car park charges.

Opening times

Friendly staff will be on site daily, 10 am–5 pm.

Facilities

Five telescopes are available for you to use. There is access for people with disabilities. If you are visiting the Dodd Wood viewpoint and need to arrange access, contact us on 07899 818421 in advance (preferably a day before).

How to get there

By road
Dodd Wood is about three miles north of Keswick on the A591 – limited car parking. From the car park, follow the trail signs to the viewpoint. For the Whinlatter Visitor Centre, take the B5292 from theA66 at Braithwaite. There will AA signs from the main roads.

Dodd Wood and Whinlatter are ideal to visit by bike. There are cycle racks at both sites.

By public transport
Whinlatter visitor centre and Dodd Wood are on bus routes, so you could leave your car behind and enjoy the Lake District scenery whilst travelling to view the ospreys and wildlife around Bassenthwaite Lake.

Why not make a day of it?

Nearby attractions that you may also like to visit:

• Mirehouse house and gardens

The Lake District Osprey Project is a partnership of the Forestry Commission, the Lake District National Park Authority and the RSPB.