From 19–27 September 2026, Rutland will celebrate its reputation as ‘The County of Good Taste’ with a week of special menus, food and drink experiences, markets and events taking place across the county.
Whether you’re looking to discover somewhere new to eat, sample local produce, enjoy a special dining experience or simply pick up some delicious treats from a local market, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
A taste of Rutland
A number of Rutland businesses are joining the celebrations with special offers, menus and experiences throughout the week.
At The Olive Branch in Clipsham, visitors can enjoy the Discover Rutland 3,3,3 menu at lunchtime from 23–26 September. Choose two courses for £29.50, with a third course available for an additional £7.50. There will also be a special Discover Rutland Sunday Lunch, featuring a choice of two starters, two roasts and two desserts. Two courses are £37.50, with a third course available for an additional £8.50.
The Olive Branch is also hosting a Bread Masterclass on 24 September, offering the chance to get hands-on and learn more about the art of bread making.
Over in Oakham, The George Inn is offering 20% off food at lunchtime on Mondays and Tuesdays when customers purchase cinema tickets, making it easy to combine a film with lunch in town.
At Rutland Hall Hotel, the Venison Dining Experience on Friday 25 September offers a unique evening of nose-to-tail dining, with Executive Head Chef Lee Clarke showcasing a specially curated menu celebrating different cuts of venison. Hosted at Blossoms Restaurant, the experience combines creative cooking, bold flavours and a focus on sustainability.
Markets, festivals and food experiences
Food & Drink Week is a great opportunity to explore Rutland’s markets, meet local producers and discover the county’s thriving food and drink scene.
Throughout the year, Rutland’s market towns host regular markets offering everything from fresh local produce and artisan food to handmade goods and seasonal specialities, with Oakham’s on a Wednesday and Saturday, and both Uppingham and Stamford’s on a Friday. Visit the monthly farmers’ market in Oakham’s Gaol Street on Saturday 19th for the opportunity to discover produce from local growers, makers and producers.
During Food & Drink Week, Oakham will be at the heart of the celebrations with the Rutland Food & Drink Festival on Sunday 20 September. Taking place around Oakham, the festival, organised by Carolyn Acton Events, brings together food and drink producers for a relaxed day of browsing, tasting and foodie fun. Entry is free and dogs are welcome.
The celebrations continue into the following weekend with the Autumn Artisan Fair at Rockingham Castle on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, from 11am–4pm. Set within the beautiful castle grounds overlooking the Welland Valley, the fair brings together local food, drink and talented artisans, with a range of handcrafted goods, delicious treats and unique products to browse and enjoy.
Discover local food and drink
Food & Drink Week is about more than simply eating out. It’s an opportunity to discover the people, producers and businesses that make Rutland’s food and drink offering so distinctive.
From independent restaurants and cafés to local producers, markets, breweries and food experiences, there are plenty of ways to explore the county through its food and drink.
Whether planning a special meal, exploring a market or discovering a new local producer, Rutland Food & Drink Week is the perfect excuse to get out, explore and enjoy a taste of what makes Rutland so special.
Find out more about Rutland Food & Drink Week, participating businesses, offers and events:
Discover Rutland Food & Drink Week
