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.

Connie makes beautiful items for every day home and table ware – designed with function, purpose and beauty in mind. Using simple forms which Connie enhances with different techniques such as carvings, patterns, colours and textures. ​ Connie has a very clear vision of her pieces in her mind, which constantly challenge and drive her.
Add to itinerary+
Two countryside walks, both starting at a great village pub, The Kings Arms.
Add to itinerary+
The 18 hole course is set in scenic countryside just south of Rutland. The course is a demanding challenge for all levels of golfers, which also has a proactive club and offers a varied programme of events and competitions throughout the year.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
High-Quality Upholstery Services and restored furniture sales near Uppingham. Don’t replace your old furniture – give it a new life!
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
One of the best ways to experience Rutland Water is to enjoy a cruise on the only the Rutland Belle. With space for up to 110 passengers, 60 of those places in the under-cover saloon and the remaining on the open top deck.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
Visit beautiful Burghley, a magical home of magnificent State Rooms, awe-inspiring works of art and priceless treasures.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
Part of the new Discover Rutland Food & Drink Map is this Southern Route of 23.7 miles. The route follows rural roads and an option to join the Rutland Water cycle paths.
Add to itinerary+
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).
Add to itinerary+