Discover Rutland | A Visitor's Introduction to Rutland

Why is Rutland Worth a Visit?

Rutland is worth visiting for its quiet elegance, historic charm, and diverse countryside. It offers a taste of rural England at its most genuine, without the crowds that accompany more tourist-heavy counties. This is a place where you can enjoy morning coffee in a market square, cycle through rolling farmland, spot ospreys on the lake, and finish the day with a locally brewed ale in a 17th-century inn.

The county’s two main towns, Oakham and Uppingham, each bring their own flavour — Oakham with its castle and lakeside proximity, Uppingham with its artistic soul and independent shops. Meanwhile, picture-perfect villages like Exton, Barrowden, and Market Overton dot the countryside, offering postcard views and warm welcomes. Whether you’re on a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo walking trip, Rutland offers a pace of life that’s as restorative as it is charming.

Rutland Highlights: Things to See and Do in Rutland

Rutland Water

This vast man-made reservoir is one of the largest in Europe and the jewel in Rutland’s crown. It’s a hub for outdoor activities, offering over 23 miles of walking and cycling trails around the shoreline. Visitors can rent bikes, go sailing, enjoy a boat cruise, or try stand-up paddleboarding. The nature reserves at Egleton and Lyndon are world-renowned for birdwatching, especially during the osprey nesting season from March to September.

Oakham

The county town of Rutland, Oakham is a historic market town with a charming mix of heritage and hospitality. Oakham Castle is a unique Norman great hall displaying hundreds of ceremonial horseshoes — a local tradition for visiting peers. The town also features All Saints’ Church, a lively weekly market, Rutland County Museum, and a great selection of independent cafés and shops. It’s the perfect place to start a Rutland adventure.

Uppingham

A smaller but equally attractive market town, Uppingham is known for its artsy vibe and historic school. It’s full of independent boutiques, antique shops, and galleries, particularly around High Street East and Queen Street. The town has an old-world atmosphere, with stone buildings and narrow lanes that invite slow strolls. There’s a strong food and drink scene here too, from fine dining to cosy pubs.

Barnsdale Gardens

Created by the late Geoff Hamilton of BBC’s Gardeners’ World, Barnsdale Gardens is a beautifully curated horticultural site near Oakham. With 38 individual garden themes across 8 acres, it’s a place to wander, get inspired, and learn about different planting styles. A tearoom and plant nursery complete the peaceful experience.

Normanton Church

Set on the southern edge of Rutland Water, Normanton Church is a striking and somewhat surreal sight. Once due to be flooded by the reservoir, it was saved by public outcry and now sits partially submerged, preserved as a visitor attraction and popular wedding venue. It’s an iconic Rutland photo spot and a fascinating piece of local history.

Exton and Fort Henry

The village of Exton is one of Rutland’s prettiest, with stone cottages and a tranquil green. Just outside the village lies Fort Henry, a romantic 18th-century lakeside folly hidden in Exton Park. Though the house itself isn’t open to the public, you can explore the surrounding parkland by foot, with prior permission or during designated open days.

Lyddington Bede House

A fascinating English Heritage property, Lyddington Bede House offers a glimpse into the lives of poor bedesmen who once lived here. Originally a medieval bishop’s palace, it was later converted into almshouses. The preserved rooms, gardens, and informative displays make it an intriguing and offbeat historic site.

Hambleton Peninsula

Jutting into Rutland Water, the Hambleton Peninsula offers scenic walks with panoramic views of the reservoir. The picturesque village of Hambleton itself is worth a visit — home to Hambleton Hall, a luxury country house hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant. The peninsula walk is around 5 miles and is popular with photographers and nature lovers alike.

Local Food and Drink

Rutland has a thriving food scene, thanks to its rich farming tradition. From farm shops like Gates Garden Centre to delis and award-winning pubs, local produce shines here. Don’t miss Rutland bitter from The Grainstore Brewery, local game pies, honey, and cheeses from nearby dairies. Farmers’ markets in Oakham and Uppingham are great for browsing and tasting.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Rutland is centrally located, making it accessible from many parts of the UK. Oakham has a train station on the Birmingham–Stansted line, with connections via Leicester or Peterborough for those coming from London. By car, Rutland is within reach of the A1 and A47, around 30 minutes from Leicester or Peterborough, and roughly 2 hours from London or Birmingham.

Getting Around

While Rutland is small, public transport is limited, so having a car makes it much easier to explore the villages and Rutland Water. Cycling is popular, particularly around the reservoir, and there are several local bike hire options. Oakham and Uppingham are very walkable.

Parking

Parking is straightforward in most towns and villages. Oakham and Uppingham both have central pay-and-display car parks, usually with reasonable rates. Popular spots around Rutland Water, such as Normanton and Sykes Lane, have dedicated visitor car parks with day rates.

Dining

Dining in Rutland is a pleasure, with options from rustic pub fare to refined dining. Hambleton Hall is the county’s most prestigious restaurant, while The Olive Branch in Clipsham (with a Michelin star) is a culinary highlight. In Oakham, Orbis, The Lord Nelson, and Fika offer everything from tapas to traditional roast dinners. Uppingham’s Don Paddy’s and Lake Isle are also top picks.

Shopping

Oakham and Uppingham are ideal for boutique shopping. You’ll find independent fashion stores, craft shops, bookshops, and fine food outlets. Fords of Oakham is a traditional department store, and Uppingham Antiques Centre is a great place for vintage treasures. Rutland’s garden centres are also a draw for shoppers, especially Gates and Rutland Garden Village.

When to Visit

Spring and summer are the best times to visit Rutland, when the countryside is green, the lake activities are in full swing, and the pubs are spilling onto sunny courtyards. Autumn offers spectacular colours around Rutland Water, and winter brings a calm, cosy vibe with fireside dining and festive markets. Each season has its own charm.

Local Events

Rutland punches above its weight when it comes to events. The Rutland County Show each June is a major rural celebration with livestock, crafts, and food. The Rutland Food & Drink Festival and Cider & Sausage Festival at Rutland Water are foodie favourites. Music fans will enjoy the Uppingham Jazz & Soul Festival, and Christmas markets in Oakham and Uppingham offer handmade gifts, mulled wine, and local cheer.

Exploring Beyond Rutland

Rutland’s location means you’re never far from more to explore. Head 20 minutes north to Stamford, a stunning Georgian town often used in period films. Burghley House, one of England’s grandest stately homes, is nearby and well worth a visit. To the west, Leicester offers a blend of Roman history and modern shopping, and to the east, the market town of Stamford offers heritage charm in abundance.