Osprey Hide Frequently Asked Questions

Where are we located?

The hide is located at Horn Mill Trout Farm, Tickencote Road, Exton, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8BA. Please be aware when using the post code in a Sat-Nav you may be taken half a mile away from the site. We have found using google maps and entering Horn Mill Trout Farm is the best option.

Please DO NOT visit River Gwash Trout Farm, Belmesthorpe Lane, Ryhall, Stamford Lincs PE9 4JZ, this is our other fish farm which does not offer Osprey photography.

When do we open?

We open from April 1st to August, all depending on bird activity i.e which birds come back, how many have chicks and when migration is looking likely.

How much is the hide?

For the 2024 season, the hide will be £87 per person/session. Payment is made via a bank transfer on the day of your booking.

What sessions are available?

Open from 1st April until late August with daily AM and PM sessions.

Which sessions are best?

There are no better sessions, everyday is different. Sometimes light can be more favourable in the evening.

How long is each session?

Arrival times vary throughout the season, but we will contact you prior to your visit. Dawn sessions will end at 8:30 am. In the summer arrival time may be as early as 4 am. Evening sessions normally start at 4:30 pm until dusk, but again times will vary throughout the season. Please allow plenty of time for your journey as if you arrive late you may be refused entry to the hide.

How many dives can I expect during a session?

Obviously, we are dealing with wildlife so there are no guarantees, but you could expect anything from 1 Osprey diving and catching on his first attempt to the same bird diving numerous times before catching a fish. Or there could be 4 or 5 different birds fishing several times during the session.

What lenses are best?

The Ospreys have dived as close as 4 metres away from the hide. For more information regarding lenses please visit our Osprey Photography Tips section by Geoff Harries on this website.

Is there any other wildlife to photograph?

We have resident Kingfishers, Red Kites, Buzzards, Egrets, Herons, Woodpeckers, Wagtails, and Muntjac to name a few.

Payment Policy

All payments are via a bank transfer. Once a payment has been made, it is non-refundable. If for any reason you need to amend your booking, we will make every effort to rearrange your booking to a convenient date. Unfortunately, you will not be able to change your booking less than 72 hours prior to your visit.