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.

A unique small business with a highly personalised approach to inspiring remarkable sporting & fitness achievements at all levels of ability from people with ‘real lives’. Operating from a rural setting, Inspire2Tri offers fitness classes, coaching & training for anyone aspiring to reach a fitness or athletic goal.
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Otters Fine Foods brings a new dimension to the food shopping experience. We offer the most wonderful naturally smoked fish, meats and cheeses, all smoked using traditional methods with no artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
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Rutland County Museum, located on Catmos Street in Oakham, is the perfect introduction to the smallest county in England.
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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.
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Canoes, kayaks, SUP’s, katakanus and row boats are all hired on a first come first served basis from our Watersports Centre at Whitwell, we do not take prior bookings. You can also bring your own equipment to use with a launch permit.
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This beautiful market town is listed as one of the top 20 most desirable places to visit in the UK (The Times) and its high street has been voted one of the top five in Britain. Uppingham offers a rare glimpse of traditional English rural life that is abundant in culture, heritage and history.
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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.
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Ideally situated just off the A1, yet one of Britain’s best kept secrets. Here’s a taste of what is waiting to be discovered on your next group visit…
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At Tresillian House, immerse yourself in a world of hands-on creativity and discovery. From willow sculpture and silver-smithing to luxury wreath-making and beyond, each workshop is designed to nurture your skills, inspire new passions and connect you with a welcoming community of makers.
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The Barnsdale experience is all about enjoying exceptional food and drink. Our homely 1760 Brasserie and breath-taking Orangery, are accompanied by a number of fabulous private spaces.
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Rutland has a plethora of offerings to keep youngsters amused – and their parents as serene as possible – through the spring and summer season. 
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Known for our refined style and attention to detail, we specialise in premium bouquets, bespoke arrangements, and elegant floral styling using the finest seasonal flowers.
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Global Birdfair is a fantastic event for all generations to enjoy.
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Two picturesque walks from the village of Exton, starting at The Fox and Hounds at the village green.
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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.
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Oakham is home to the first permanent memorial to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, which was unveiled in April 2024 on what would have been her 98th birthday. Placed in Oakham Library gardens, the statue is accessible from the town footpath.
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