Rockingham Castle is home to the Saunders Watson family, whose ancestors have made their lives here for the last 450 years, following the sale of the Castle by James I in 1619 to Sir Lewis Watson.
In May 2023 we opened ‘The View’, a new 100-seater restaurant with panoramic views across stunning Rutland Water to the hills beyond.
Our family-run garden nursery, shop and restaurant is situated on the south shore of beautiful Rutland Water.
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.
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.
We are proud to offer the very best fresh, seasonal food, served in generous portions. Wherever possible, we source our ingredients from local producers, so our sandwiches are freshly made using Hambleton Bakery’s award-winning bread and in season our salads come direct from our very own allotment.
Make sure you pop into the interactive and informative Rutland Water Visitor Centre & Gift Shop at Sykes Lane near Empingham. You will find lots to be learned; with items telling the history of the reservoir, and explaining the wildlife on the nature reserve, not forgetting the array of local information you can pick up to plan your time in the area, alongside maps, cycle routes, souvenirs and gifts.
Two chocolate box, thatched country cottages in the heart of the charming village of Cottesmore, which has a great pub, shop and chippy close by, plus Rutland Water only 5 miles away. Dicks Cottage sleeps 8 and nearby Well Cottage sleeps 4.
Other Listings
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.
A hidden gem in the countryside south of Rutland! Located between Stamford and Corby, Fineshade Wood provides a picturesque setting for your next family adventure.
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.
Set in a private gated 30 acre estate, with views over the Rutland Valley and overlooking our beautiful private lakes, the open field surroundings and wildlife provide a natural setting for both our Shepherds Huts.
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.
