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

4 April to 31 August 2009

What more could an osprey want after a long journey from Africa, but to see some of Lakeland's finest scenery, warm weather and plenty of fish?

And if you visit the open-air viewpoint at Dodd Wood, you can have all this too. Well, the first two, at least.

When you see my wings half folded against my body, you'll be glad that you aren't a fish as I plunge into the still waters of Bassenthwaite with my legs outstretched.

Got one! It's a bit of a struggle to break free of the water with such a big fish firmly grasped in my talons, but I can't be feeding small fry to my growing young!

It's exciting to watch me hunting out on the lake, but do you want to get even closer? Visit the Forestry Commission's Whinlatter visitor centre for an intimate peek into my family life.

Nestcam images give you all the action from egg-laying through to my chicks first flights.

Friendly staff can tell you more about me and the great conservation success story that has meant we're back nesting in England after a 150-year absence.

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

After your visit, you can keep up to date with all our adventures on the Lake District Osprey Project blog.

When can you see us?

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

What's at the site?

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 find us

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?

While you're out and about, why not visit the following?

• Kielder Ospreys
• 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.