As a first-time visitor to Rutland, you are truly spoilt for choice! Rutland Water and the two county towns of Oakham & Uppingham should be included on your itinerary.
Rutland Water
Rutland Water is often described as ‘the playground of the east midlands’, known for its incredible outdoor offering, the reservoir is often the first port of call for visitors. Set in over 3,000 acres of beautiful rolling countryside there are plenty of activities found around and on the water. Outdoor sports are extremely well catered for with plenty of walking and cycling routes available, plus fishing, golfing and the huge choice of water sports. Alternatively, if you have a passion for wildlife and nature, there are two nature reserves around Rutland water, with many hides which provide great opportunities to spot a rare bird to two.
Rutland Watersports Centre is on the north shore of Rutland Water Park at Whitwell and offers sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding. For entertaining children, Sykes Lane near Empingham is the perfect spot- a great family destination, it is home to a fantastic, enclosed adventure playground, Mini Golf Course and seasonal children’s activities and events.
Oakham
Oakham is a pretty, traditional English market town, bustling with activity. Packed with heritage, there’s plenty to see from Oakham Castle, Britain’s finest example of Norman architecture to Rutland County Museum.Tucked away off the Market Place in Oakham sitsOakham Castle, inside the Castle you can see a magnificent oak-timbered roof, leaded windows and a stunning aristocratic display of over 240 gilded horseshoes, given to the Lord of the Manor by royalty and peers of the realm on their first visit to Oakham. The oldest surviving horseshoe in the collection dates back to Edward IV’s visit in 1470 after his victory at the Battle of Losecoat Field. More recently, horseshoes have been presented by the then Duchess of Cornwall (2014), now Queen Camila, and a lovely double display from the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh (2024), Prince Edward and Sophie.
Wander through the Market Place on a Wednesday or Saturday to find a burgeoning display of the finest local produce. Whatever you do,don’t miss Mill Street, offering everything you need to relax, unwind and indulge. With top class boutiques, salons and artisans. Browse the beautiful window displays of jewellery makers, stylish clothing and art galleries whilst choosing from the numerous cafes on offer.
Uppingham
Uppingham is blessed with a range of speciality shops and traditional retailers, many of whom are still family owned and run. For browsing around antiques shops, Uppingham hits the mark perfectly allowing you to meander around the town for hours, finding hidden gems around every corner. Art is very important to Uppingham with a number of distinguished art galleries displaying work from acclaimed artists from around the world as well as introducing visitors to a plethora of talented local artists.
Uppingham has been a functioning market town since the 14th century. It has the only fatstock show still to be held in temporary penning in a traditional market town, with farmers bringing their livestock just prior to Christmas to enter them into many judging categories, always on the third Wednesday in November. Uppingham School has been providing education locally since 1584 and is considered one of Britain’s best schools for music as well as housing one of the largest private theatres in the country. Uppingham School was founded by Robert Johnson, the Archdeacon of Leicester, who also established Oakham School. Uppingham Theatre is part of the school but also offers a range of public performances including touring shows, comedians, and speakers, as well as performances by local amateur dramatic societies.
With much more than just these three highlights to explore, Rutland is the ideal destination for your next countryside staycation.
