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.
Bat and Bottle are Rutland’s only specialist importers of Italian wine. Truly multum in parvo, we wear Decanter’s Retailers Awards title for Best Italian Wine Merchant, and runner up Best Subscription Wine Club , as well as having been awarded the inaugural (2020) London Wine Fair Wine Buyers Award for: ‘Best Online Specialist Wine Buyer’. We have even represented UK small businesses at Downing Street…
Our small warehouse on Oakham Enterprise Park is packed with artisan italian wines – shoppers are welcome to drop in whenever we are open; we sell directly to the public and there is no minimum purchase.
In May 2023 we opened ‘The View’, a new 100-seater restaurant with panoramic views across stunning Rutland Water to the hills beyond.
Spanhoe Lodge is situated in the East Northamptonshire Village of Laxton, just 2 miles from the Rutland Border and the Welland Valley Viaduct. Close to market towns of Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford, and near to Rutland Water Nature Reserve. Whether for a romantic break, time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a special occasion or business, Spanhoe Lodge offers everything you want and more.
A chance to try quality telescopes and binoculars before you buy.
Surrounded by the rolling landscapes of South Rutland and just moments from the shores of Rutland Water, we offer the perfect base for countryside walks, scenic bike rides, or simply a few days at an easier pace. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or quiet relaxation, everything you need is right on the doorstep.
Victory Cottage is a beautiful thatched chocolate box cottage, set in a quiet location within Cottesmore village with countryside views to the front and village church to the rear of the cottage.
Clematis Cottages offer a collection of 4 individual cottages which together can sleep up to 20 guests, situated in the grounds of Lodge Farm which is a 10 minute drive from the beautiful Georgian town of Stamford. We now welcome well behaved dogs with their owners.
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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.
The Barnsdale experience is all about enjoying exceptional food and drink. Our homely 1760 Brasserie and breath-taking Orangery, are accompanied by a number of fabulous private spaces.
The magic of Tolethorpe is something special which we highly recommend you experience for yourselves. Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful grounds in front of Tolethorpe Hall, then take your seat in the covered auditorium, and see an open-air stage like no other, with amateur productions from the extremely talented Stamford Shakespeare Company.
Originally created by Geoff Hamilton for the Gardeners’ World TV show, Barnsdale is home to 38 pocket-sized, themed garden ‘rooms’, built in his trademark, practical style, and full of inspiration for garden-lovers of all ages. Go for great ideas for your own outside spaces or simply have fun exploring- there magical hidden corners, ponds full of tadpoles and newts, and an allotment with chickens and giant organically grown veg.
Rutland’s most famous landmark was saved from flooding when Rutland Water was created in the 1970s. Now with the floor raised almost half way up the church, it is a fascinating building with a unique history.
A single site vineyard in between two valleys located on Jurassic limestone soil.
For those who fancy a little extra space; available for short breaks and holidays in England’s smallest but mightiest county. Positioned just a stone’s throw from The Barnsdale, so if you find yourself craving a night away from the stove, The 1760 Brasserie is just a stroll away…
Step into a bright, modern café at the heart of Oakham where our friendly team serves up locally‑sourced and home baked treats, expertly roasted coffee and vibrant conversation all day long. Whether you’re craving a power‑packed coffee before you explore Rutland or lingering over a brunch board with friends, our café is your haven for delicious flavours, warm smiles and that little boost of inspiration.