13/09/2025
Ride & Stride Rutland has 64 churches, much loved by the many thousands of people who worship in them, celebrate major life events or just gaze at them in admiration as they pass by.
TV presenter Julia Bradbury, known for her work on BBC’s Countryfile and who has travelled across the UK and many parts of the world, is a big fan of the county and believes that we offer something for everyone here.
If you enjoy the great outdoors, then you’ll find lots of thing to enjoy in this rural retreat. Outdoor sports are extremely well catered for with plenty of walking and cycling routes available, plus fishing, golfing and the huge choice of watersports that take place on Rutland Water.
Rutland is a great place to pursue an interest in your surroundings, whether you have a passion for wildlife and nature, an enthusiasm for gardening or a keen interest in photography and landscape painting. There are two nature reserves around Rutland water, with many hides providing a great opportunity to spot a rare bird to two – or you can visit one of the many stunning gardens open to the public. Treat yourself to a trip to the beautiful Barnsdale Gardens – explore the gardens, take a gardening course and buy stunning plants to take home with you for a lovely reminder of happy memories in Rutland.
If you prefer to stay indoors there are plenty of places for you to explore too: theatres, art galleries and shopping in our two Market Towns that offer a huge variety of boutiques, farm shops and family run stores .
Rutland is very proud to offer visitors and locals an abundance of locally produced food and drink. There are numerous award winning pubs, restaurants and hotels in the county, with each able to inform you of the provenance of their menus.
Rutland is also a great base for you if you’re keen to explore the East Midlands. Many of the finest English stately homes are easy to reach from Rutland; museums, concerts, outdoor cinemas, sports facilities, family friendly attractions and things to do make our county a superb choice for you and your family.
Featured Listings
Mallard Point is a family-run Single Estate Vineyard and Distillery located in Essendine, Rutland, offering tours and creating a range of local gins and still and sparkling wines.
Oakham, the county town of Rutland, is a classic English market town, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. It has a castle, market place, butter cross and stocks, a famous old school, all in close association with a magnificent parish church and arranged in a rectangular shape around which the town has grown.
12/04/2025 - 21/04/2025
Spring has sprung at Rutland Water! Hidden around our park are giant Easter Eggs that have been decorated by members of our local community.
Start Date: 01/01/2018
Rutland Farm Park, in Oakham, is a place for families, adults and schools to come and enjoy a fun day out. Children of all ages will be able to meet and learn all about our range of farm animals.
Countryside for all routes have been designed with accessible requirements in mind.
Lyndon Visitor Centre is one of two visitor centres at Rutland Water Nature Reserve. Located on the South Shore of the Reserve, it was opened by Sir David Attenborough in 1985 and offers the birdwatcher, wildlife enthusiast or any visitor the opportunity to experience this peaceful spot with stunning views across the water.
Arts for Rutland is a Registered Charity committed to leading, promoting and supporting the arts in Rutland. It consists of a small volunteer committee that aims to be representative of the county’s arts organisations and various creative disciplines.
The Rutland Showground
Visit beautiful Burghley, a magical home of magnificent State Rooms, awe-inspiring works of art and priceless treasures.
If you’ve been inspired by our ‘Perfect Rural Escape’ tourism film, then here is a handy itinerary which includes all of the places featured.
A guided walk through Uppingham’s Heritage. There are 20 identified sites numbered on the map.
With a focus on offering the finest produce, sourced locally wherever possible, Gates Farm Shop promises customers a true foodie experience.
Tucked away off the Market Place in Oakham, and backing onto Cutts Close Park, there is also a cafe on the grounds (check separate opening times).
Cycling is one of the easiest ways to keep fit and healthy, it can be a fun activity for all the family. A bicycle does not cause pollution or contribute to climate change.
Proudly hosting athlete focussed events in and around the county of Rutland, including triathlons, walks, swims and walks. This year you will see the return of some established favourites alongside some newer offerings, find the perfect event for your next sporting challenge!
