Rutland is best known for the iconic Rutland Water, one of the largest man-made lakes in Europe; the largest in England (by surface area) and is considered one of the best designed, both environmentally and aesthetically. With over 3,000 acres of countryside there are plenty of activities found around and on the water for families, couples and individuals wishing to explore.From walking to sightseeing, the water has it all.
Rutland Water was created in the early 70’s by damming the Gwash Valley near Empringham. The site was officially opened in 1976 and took some time to completely fill. The most prominent feature of Rutland Water is Normanton Church which was saved from demolition when the plans were outlined to flood the area to create the Rutland Water we have come to know and love today. The church now sits safely on a new level of rubble topped with concrete above water level, on its own peninsular. It is a spectacular sight to behold and creates a picture-perfect backdrop for your Rutland selfie.
Rutland Water Nature Reserve is internationally famous and provides one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in Great Britain, regularly holding in excess of 25,000 waterfowl. Home to the Rutland Osprey Project, it is a fantastic place for birding and getting closer to nature.
Lyndon Nature Reserve & Visitor Centre (LE15 8RN) lies on the south shore of the reservoir. Enjoy hearing the stories of the Rutland Osprey Project in the visitor centre (complete with facilities, refreshments and a shop), then enjoy a walk through the meadows, stopping off at a hide or two on the way, to Manton Bay – where you can see nesting ospreys for yourself.
Rutland Water offers some of the best fishing in the region, if not the UK, and is a true haven for anglers. Trout in the reservoir can grow up to an amazing 15lbs with huge Pike, that can grow up to 40lbs, lurk beneath the water. The reservoir not only attracts leisure anglers but also plays host to some top-level competitions attracting discerning anglers from far and wide.Fishing novices need not worry though – fly-fishing tuition is available from friendly guides at Rutland Water Fishing Lodge, offering everything that’s needed for a day’s fishing. It’s not necessary to bring anything except perhaps some wellie boots!
Back in 2022 Rutland Water made international news for uncovering the fossil of an Ichthyosaur. Today, Rutland is landlocked and rural but once this area of the midlands consisted of warm seas where predators like ichthyosaurs ruled the food chain. Stretching roughly 10 metres in length with a long, tooth-filled jaw and massive eye sockets built for hunting in dim waters, this individual would have dwarfed most other marine creatures of its time. Britain has a rich fossil heritage, particularly along its southern coasts. However, the Ichthyosaur stands apart for several reasons. The fossil’s inland location makes it especially striking. It is a powerful reminder that the geography we take for granted has shifted dramatically over geological time. Not only this but its completeness, immense size and the quality of its preservation have led experts to describe it as one of the most important UK fossil finds in decades, a specimen that will support research for years to come.
