Guest Information
Why we invited you?
It will likely be for several reasons which includes the most critical and that is that we are really interested to hear your opinions and where opinions differ, where you believe compromises might be found. We do not see opinions and personal perspective as right or wrong, only facts can be so black and white. We see listening to the perspectives and opinions of others as the critical first step toward solving problems and finding ways forward.
Other reasons may include that you fit with a particular group we have invited perhaps focusing on a specific topic, or that we particularly value your expertise or that your perspective will balance the views and opinions of others which we view as vital to our events. We have learned that, for most of our guests, there is usually an enlightening or illuminating element to their visit whether it may be as simple as a first visit to a particular landscape or learning from the perspective of others, particularly listening to some of our local speakers or experts.
We hope that everyone will come and enjoy themselves with not only an open mind but a willingness to share their wisdom, knowledge and perspectives.
What to expect from our events
As previously mentioned, we are funded via donations and generous assistance from personal donors who support our objectives therefore all our events are free to guests except that we request a £30 tip be left with one of your hosts to give to the house staff for their time and effort in hosting us. Unless there is a clashing event, we will be able to make 10 pairs of Swarovski binoculars available to guests while they are staying with us. Dress is casual throughout your stay. Dinner may be a little smarter than any other part of your stay. If it is possible to bring a 4 x 4 car, we would be grateful as it can help us get all guests moving around where we need to get to. Please review the detailed advice for what else to bring based on the time of year you will be attending.
Lek Events in April
The weather can be absolutely stunning at this time of year, but it can also be brutal and the potential for being cold in a hide at 4am is more likely than anything else. We therefore suggest warm clothes from start to finish in layers commencing with your feet (wellies are vital for walking across the fell in the dark), your legs, and all the way up to your head and hands. Assume every part of you may get cold. We suggest a D-Robe for ultimate warmth. For other periods of your stay, what you brought for the morning lek will cover you.
Moorland in May
Except for sitting outside the house in nice weather, the only time you will be outside is when we hope to be able to enjoy evening drinks from a beautiful location on the fell. It can be chilly then no matter how fine the weather, so an extra layer or two is a good idea. It may also be appropriate to bring a pair of outdoor shoes or wellies. Although you will be in a car on the fell, when watching wildlife, or if you have a photographer in the car, the windows may be open and therefore there could be a chill so an extra layer might be a good idea.
Lowlands in June
We hope that fine weather will prevail by June, but the opposite is always possible. We will spend time moving around in vehicles or trailers, either way, there could be drafts and fresh air, so an extra layer and a waterproof jacket is advisable. Weather permitting, we may spend time talking in fields looking at specifics or listening to an expert with Q & A so an extra layer may be needed while we stand chatting. Sunscreen maybe necessary along with sunglasses and a cap and any required hay fever/allergy medication that might be applicable.
Photography
We very much welcome photographers and will do all we can to accommodate guests keen to take photographs, but the days schedule is tight and although there could be fantastic opportunities when out, we cannot alter the plan or delay too much for photographic opportunities.
Lek Events in April – we will try and help you position tripods etc the night before to carry less in the dark. We suggest a tripod with a gimbal head and ideally a lens ranging from 200 to 600mm.
Moorland in May – We suggest a bean bag to hang over the door or window of the car with the longest, fastest lens possible, ideally 400 to 600 mm. Remember to ask the driver to switch off the engine to avoid camera shake.
Lowlands in June – Due to the nature of these events they are the least photography friendly, but a beanbag and long lens would be the order of the day. Consult with us before arrival about possible opportunities.