Local places of interest and walks

Fancy a walk in the woods, coupled with a refreshing pint and a delicious pub lunch?

Step back in time in this ancient forest and follow the medieval boundary of Wakerley Great Park – remnants of a 13th-century deer park – and that’s only the starting point. From there you’ll enjoy stretches of open countryside, the banks of the River Welland and the postcard-perfect villages of Laxton, Barrowden and Wakerley – Download the route here.

One of the largest man made lakes in Europe, and the largest in England (by surface area). Set in over 3,000 acres of beautiful rolling countryside there are plenty of activities found around and on the water for families, couples and individuals wishing to explore.

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.

Normanton Church has become a stunning location for civil weddings, corporate meetings and musical concerts. It is only open to the public during certain events, but you do not have to go inside to marvel at this beautiful building and its surroundings.

You can get a great view of the church with a cruise on the Rutland Belle from Whitwell, as the church is an optional departing point for passengers.

This internationally famous nature reserve is managed by the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust in partnership with Anglian Water and provides one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in Great Britain, regularly holding in excess of 25,000 waterfowl.

The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre is open year-round and affords excellent views and helpful staff and volunteers on hand to offer assistance.

See the resident Osprey pairs from their bespoke hide with volunteers on hand to answer any questions at our Lyndon Visitor Centre.

Burghley is one of the largest and grandest surviving houses of the sixteenth century and a magnificent example of the great Elizabethan ‘prodigy’ houses. Conceived by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1587, Burghley is a testament to the ambition and vision of the most powerful courtier of the first Elizabethan age.

Green tranquil walks, modern sculpture and family fun. The gardens and parkland that you see today at Burghley were largely designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th century. Today, sweeping vistas down to the spires of Stamford in the parkland, splashing in the Garden of Surprises or tranquil walks next to the lake in the Sculpture Garden can all be enjoyed.

Rutland County Museum & Visitor Centre is the perfect introduction to England’s smallest county. ADMISSION IS FREE! Collections include Archaeology Rural trades and rural life, including Brewery, Wheelwrighting, Blacksmithing, and an impressive range of agricultural exhibits Crime and punishment, including the only surviving New Drop Gallows in England The Brooke Reliquary and more! The museum hosts an exciting programme of Exhibitions and Events.

The splendid Great Hall of Oakham Castle is one of the finest Norman Halls in England. The Hall is best known for its collection of enormous commemorative Horseshoes donated by members of the Royal Family and Peers of the Realm. It is also decorated with a range of 12th century sculptures. The grounds of the Castle are a peaceful oasis in the centre of Oakham. Following extensive refurbishments, the Castle now features improved facilities and activities for families.

Voted the UK’s Best Garden to Visit 2018/19, Barnsdale Gardens is an essential visit whether you are a gardener or not. Famed as the home of the BBC Gardeners’ World TV programme it has been dubbed ‘a theme park for gardeners’ because of its uniquely designed collection of 38 individual, yet realistic, small gardens that guide you round this 8-acre site. See and enjoy a great variety of garden areas, ranging from traditional English cottage gardens to wildlife, Japanese and French, as well as spaces for growing vegetables and fruit