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.

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.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
If you find yourself staying in Oakham and looking for a reasonably flat walk to see the picturesque Rutland Water, then this is for you. It stays on pavements and hard footpaths so should never get muddy.
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+
Two countryside walks, both starting at a great village pub, The Kings Arms.
Add to itinerary+
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).
Add to itinerary+
A guided walk through Uppingham’s Heritage. There are 20 identified sites numbered on the map.
Add to itinerary+
From Farm, To You, By Lou X Visit Our Farm Shop for Meat, Poultry, Farmhouse Pies, Artisan Burgers, Craft Sausages & More.
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+
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.
Add to itinerary+
Welcome to the Rutland Church Trail: A guide to 15 churches in the County of Rutland
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+
If you’ve been inspired by our ‘Perfect Rural Escape’ tourism film, then here is a handy itinerary which includes all of the places featured.
Add to itinerary+
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.
Add to itinerary+