This internationally famous nature reserve is managed by the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust in partnership with Anglian Water and provides one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in Great Britain.
For such a tiny county, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do in Rutland regardless of your age or ability. From driving a steam train to visiting some friendly sheep, from jumping off the UK’s tallest aqua obstacle to enjoying lazy picnics, there’s something for thrill seekers and those of us that want to take things at a more leisurely pace.
For tiny tots, teenagers, couples and retirees, take your pick of daily activities, that won’t break the bank, and we’ll leave you pleasantly surprised at the benefits of a holiday in our stunning Rutland countryside. Start creating your Rutland holiday ‘Things To Do’ itinerary list today:
Nestled just next to the picturesque village of Egleton, the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre provides the ideal start point for your visit to Rutland Water Nature Reserve. Here you will find a well stocked gift shop, light refreshments, and friendly staff and volunteers on hand should you need assistance.
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).
Exploring Rutland Water by e-bike is a fantastic way to take in the stunning scenery at your own pace. With hire points available at several locations, it’s easy to hop on and set off along the picturesque cycling routes that wind around the reservoir.
Rocks by Rail is an outdoor living museum covering 19 acres of reclaimed quarry and railway tracks to offer a journey back in time. Situated 4 miles from Oakham, explore fascinating nature trails, take a train trip, drive a classic loco and tour the workshop.
Pack your bucket and spade and head to Rutland Water beach – the 1st inland bathing water location in England to have a Blue Flag and Seaside Award!
Rutland’s best kept secret!
In 2014, we celebrated 40 years in business as a wholesale plant nursery, so we decided to open our most ambitious project yet – the Garden Centre and Café. Focusing on a wide range of plants and core elements of gardening.
Visit beautiful Burghley, a magical home of magnificent State Rooms, awe-inspiring works of art and priceless treasures.
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Offering a variety of touring professional shows, comedians, and speakers, as well as performances by local amateur dramatic societies, the stunning performance spaces include a 300-seat proscenium arch theatre, and an adjoining 160-seat black box drama studio (The Williams Studio).
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.
A hidden gem in the countryside south of Rutland! Located between Stamford and Corby, Fineshade Wood provides a picturesque setting for your next family adventure.
Start Date: 04/01/2010
Set beside the church of the picturesque ironstone village of Lyddington, Lyddington Bede House originated as the medieval wing of a palace belonging to the Bishops of Lincoln.
The UK’s most exciting Aqua Park featuring the largest collection of bespoke big impact water obstacles at Rutland Water is open May through to September.
A family business, we have been selling art worldwide for over 40 years. We stock thousands of prints, paintings, drawings, ceramics and sculptures across a very wide range of top British, American and European artists.
Make sure you pop into the interactive and informative Rutland Water Visitor Centre & Gift Shop at Sykes Lane near Empingham. You will find lots to be learned; with items telling the history of the reservoir, and explaining the wildlife on the nature reserve, not forgetting the array of local information you can pick up to plan your time in the area, alongside maps, cycle routes, souvenirs and gifts.
Originally created by Geoff Hamilton for the Gardeners’ World TV show, Barnsdale is home to 38 pocket-sized, themed garden ‘rooms’, built in his trademark, practical style, and full of inspiration for garden-lovers of all ages. Go for great ideas for your own outside spaces or simply have fun exploring- there magical hidden corners, ponds full of tadpoles and newts, and an allotment with chickens and giant organically grown veg.
