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).
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
Hambleton Bakery on Cottesmore Road, Exton sprung into life in 2008, since then the little shop at one end of the Bakery has surpassed all of our expectations. Traditional bread, made slowly with top quality English or French stone ground flour, makes up a significant part of our output.
The Rutland Gallery is an exciting contemporary art gallery located in the historic town of Uppingham, Rutland. The gallery exhibits work by established professional artists from across the UK and Internationally.
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.
Rumble Live Action Gaming, the award-winning gaming experience offering outdoor laser tag with state-of-the-art equipment, is available at both Rutland Water and Grafham Water in Cambridgeshire.
Bowl Everyone Over With Our Grilling Courses
Oakham’s newest destination for relaxed and stylish menswear, accessories and shoes.
Download the 7 Heritage Trails, each with a circular walking and cycling route exploring Rutland villages and fascinating local history.
Founded in 1993, Cavells is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers visiting Rutland. Nestled in the charming market town of Oakham, the boutique showcases over 100 handpicked brands including sought-after names like Essentiel Antwerp, Weekend MaxMara, Veja, and Luisa Cerano.
Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue is a unique collection of 150 yew trees, most over 200 years old. The Avenue was once the carriage drive to Clipsham Hall, the centre of the Clipsham Estate.
Award winning farm shop, butchery and eatery just south of Rutland, New Lodge Farm has been owned by the Singlehurst family for over 100 years, focusing on cattle and sheep production by using traditional organic methods of farming.
Global Birdfair is a fantastic event for all generations to enjoy.
Do you and your partner or bestie enjoy trying different cuisines or getting stuck into food-inspired activities whilst on holiday? Then look no further than our food-inspired weekend away itinerary to help you plan your next trip to Rutland; jam-packed with foodie activities and even providing inspiration for food-themed accommodation!
Friday
In the Springboard Arts studio in North Luffenham, you can enjoy making lovely things to take home at a craft workshop, and while you’re there, shop for handmade textiles and handprinted cards.
Walkers is a locally run, family bookshop that was started by my father back in Oakham during 1972. Since then we have been quietly beavering away, serving the communities in Rutland with books, cards, news and more for nearly 50 years.
Play the most outstanding golf in Rutland! With Panoramic views of Rutland Water you have a choice of the challenging 18 hole Championship Normanton course or nine par 3 holes on the Hambleton course.
