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, regularly holding in excess of 25,000 waterfowl.

Start Date: 01/01/2010

Nestling on the borders of three counties; Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire. Eyebrook Reservoir is a jewel hidden in one of the prettiest parts of England.
Global Birding aims to inspire birdwatchers to come together as a global community and celebrate birds, by participating in birdwatching, birdwatching events, citizen science and conservation. The major event is Global Birdfair 14-16 July 2023  which attracts a multitude of exhibitors and visitors who are passionate about conserving nature worldwide. Global Birding is the brainchild of Tim Appleton MBE, co-founder of the first and biggest Birdfair which he ran for 31 years.  Prior to creating and managing Rutland Water Nature Reserve, he worked for Sir Peter Scott at the world famous Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
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.
Rutland’s most famous landmark was saved from flooding when Rutland Water was created in the 1970s. Now with the floor raised almost half way up the church, it is a fascinating building with a unique history.
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!
Once part of Normanton Estate, local residents fought to save ‘St Matthew’s Church’ from demolition when the reservoir was created in the 1970’s. Now deconsecrated and with a new floor level, Normanton Church has it’s own embankment making it a prominent feature on the water.

12/07/2025 - 13/07/2025

Belvoir Castle Flower and Garden Show 2025: Bigger, Brighter, Blooming Better Nestled in the breathtaking grounds of Belvoir Castle, the 2025 Flower and Garden Show is shaping up to be our biggest and most exciting event yet!
Visit beautiful Burghley, a magical home of magnificent State Rooms, awe-inspiring works of art and priceless treasures.
Whatever your age or ability, we’ve got just the bike for you from hybrid and mountain bikes, to the latest electric bikes, tandems, gel saddle covers, helmets and kids’ bikes, tag-a-longs, child seats and buggies – all current season models from Specialized, replaced every year.
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.
Fishing, birdwatching, walking, cycling, water sports – you name it – Rutland Water has it! Not only does it bring vital water resources for the surrounding regions, but it also provides a fantastic day out for all the family.
We have collated a table for you with information on the distance of the walk, where to find the map and even some pubs along the route to stop of for a well deserved drink!

25/05/2025 - 26/05/2025

Living Heritage Game and Country Fair Enjoy a packed programme full of country sports and family friendly entertainment Enjoy first class entertainment from some of the countryside’s top names and organisations and try out lots of country sports such as Clayshooting, Airguns, Archery, and Fishing.