VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS!
🎄🎄🎄
VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS! 🎄🎄🎄
VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS!
🎄🎄🎄
VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS! 🎄🎄🎄
Tucked away on the edge of ancient woodland within the stunning grounds of Melmerby Hall, part of the prestigious Rowley Estates, The Fallen Oak Hide offers a peaceful and rewarding photography experience in the heart of Cumbria. From this well-equipped and thoughtfully-positioned hide, you can photograph a range of woodland and garden birds throughout the seasons — from curious robins and blue tits to visiting finches, nuthatches, and great spotted woodpeckers. Overhead, buzzards frequently and other birds of prey have been spotted and heard from the hide, adding an exciting sense of anticipation to each visit. Deer are also regular visitors, particularly in the quieter hours. Inside the hide, you’ll find comfortable recliner chairs, allowing you to settle in for extended sessions in complete comfort — perfect for those quiet moments when patience pays off. 4 well-positioned viewing windows offer flexible shooting angles and natural light throughout the day. The Fallen Oak is ideal for photographers of all levels — whether you’re perfecting your first shots or refining your fieldcraft and lighting skills. Optional one-to-one or small group tuition is available, covering everything from camera setup and composition to ethical wildlife photography techniques. So come and enjoy the stillness of the woodland, the rhythm of bird activity, and the chance to capture truly authentic wildlife moments — all from the comfort and concealment of the Fallen Oak Hide.
At The Fallen Oak, amenities include:
Comfortable recliner chairs
Camera beanbags
Gimbal
Motorised Video Slider
Tea/coffee making facilities
Coat hooks
Accessibility - Access to the hide is via a 75 metre rough track and then 100 metres across a field. Both of these are relatively flat but can be slippy and uneven. The field is unsuitable for wheelchairs or walking frames due to the boggy nature of the land. Good outdoor footwear is recommended.
Vouchers now available for Christmas!
🎄🐿️🎄
Vouchers now available for Christmas! 🎄🐿️🎄
For every booking of the Red Squirrel Hide, we make a donation to The Red Squirrel Society.
Vouchers now available for Christmas!
🎄🐿️🎄
Vouchers now available for Christmas! 🎄🐿️🎄
Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Britain's beloved red squirrel with our exclusive wildlife hide experience near Melmerby. We've expertly positioned two premium camouflage hides, offering an unparalleled 270-degree panorama of the woodland action. Designed specifically for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, the hides feature silent-opening apertures, ensuring you can capture stunning photos and videos without disturbing these elusive creatures. Let the gentle murmur of the nearby stream wash over you, creating a uniquely relaxing and ambient setting for your observation. This is your chance to witness red squirrels in their entirely natural state, often scampering and foraging within mere feet of your vantage point. Don't just observe wildlife—feel the thrill of being part of their world. Book your unforgettable, close-proximity red squirrel encounter today and capture the magic!
Accessibility Information
Access to the two red squirrel hides involves a 200-metre walk along a rough, uneven and often slippery track, followed by a further 200 metres through woodland on a natural, uneven path. Conditions can be particularly slippery during wet or winter months, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is strongly recommended.
Due to the nature of the terrain, access is not suitable for wheelchair users or for those requiring walking aids such as frames.
Inside each hide, there are two large bean bag chairs which can be moved and repositioned. These provide comfortable seating and can also be used as a soft support for resting camera equipment. However, photographers may need to shoot from a range of positions and angles—including kneeling or shifting to the sides of the hide—to maximise viewing and photographic opportunities. For this reason, the hides are not suitable for individuals with any level of mobility difficulties, including those who may struggle to move into low or varied positions.
If you are unsure about your ability to access or use the hides safely, please contact Jason or Paula prior to booking.
Booking and Prices
Take advantage of our introductory OFFER!
(available on bookings made up to and including 31/03/26)
The Fallen Oak Hide: £50 per person per day
The Red Squirrel Hide: £50 per person per day
Or since the hides are only a 2-minute drive apart, why not visit both hides on the same day?
Combination of hides: £80 per person per day
Add expert in-hide tuition on a one-to-one or small group basis: £50 for 2 hours
Please note that from 1st April 2026, pricing will be as follows:
Fallen Oak Hide - £70 pp per day
Red Squirrel Hide - £70 pp per day
Both hides - £120 pp per day
Tuition will remain at £50 for 2 hours