Rutland Travel Guide

This comprehensive Rutland travel guide provides a detailed list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, and what to eat and do, along with cultural insights and safety tips.


Introduction to Rutland

Rutland is a county located in East Midlands of England, United Kingdom. It’s a landlocked area and is one of the smallest counties in England. However, it makes up for its small size with its natural beauty, picturesque villages, historic landmarks, and unique culture.

List of Places to Visit in Rutland

Rutland offers visitors a plethora of places to explore. From culturally important attractions to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. Here are some must-visit destinations in Rutland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oakham Castle: This 12th-century castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rutland. It features a unique horseshoe-shaped Great Hall, which was constructed in the 12th century.
  • Rutland County Museum: Located in Oakham, this museum houses fascinating exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Rutland.
  • Lyddington Bede House: This 14th-century building was previously a former medieval monastic complex and is now a tourist attraction.

Natural Attractions of Rutland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rutland Water: This artificial lake is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Rutland. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as bird watching, fishing, and watersports.
  • Rutland Water Nature Reserve: This reserve houses numerous species of birds and animals, including the endangered Ospreys. It’s a perfect place for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
  • Normanton Church: Located on the south shore of Rutland Water, this ancient church dates back to the 14th century and is now a popular venue for wedding ceremonies and concerts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rutland

Rutland offers numerous hiking and biking trails, which are perfect for those looking to explore the county’s natural beauty. Here are some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Rutland:

  • Rutland Water Circular Route: This 23-mile circular route takes you around Rutland Water, showcasing some of the best views of the lake.
  • Rutland Round: This 65-mile trail takes you through the Rutland countryside, passing through several picturesque villages and historic sites.
  • Hereward Way: This 110-mile walking trail passes through Rutland and takes you on a journey through some of the most scenic parts of England.

Best Things to Do in Rutland: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the popular attractions and the nature reserves, there are plenty of things to do in Rutland. Here are some of the best activities and tours in Rutland to include in your itinerary:

  • Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre: Get up close and personal with some of the most impressive birds of prey in the world.
  • Artisan Cheese Fair: Held annually at Melton Mowbray, this food festival is a must-visit for all food lovers.
  • Rutland Railway Museum: Explore the history of the railway industry in Rutland and get a closer look at some of the vintage trains on display.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rutland

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Visit Oakham Castle, Rutland County Museum, and Lyddington Bede House
Day 2 Take a walk around Rutland Water and Rutland Water Nature Reserve
Day 3 Explore the nearby villages of Uppingham and Stamford
Day 4 Go birdwatching at Rutland Water Birdwatching Centre and visit Normanton Church
Day 5 Take a hike or bike ride along one of the many trails in Rutland
Day 6 Attend a food fair or farmers’ market, such as Oakham Farmers’ and Craft Market
Day 7 Visit the Rutland Railway Museum and Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre

Food and Drink Scene of Rutland

No trip to Rutland is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Rutland:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Melton Mowbray Pork Pie: This savory pie is made with pork and a unique blend of spices, and it’s a staple of Rutland cuisine.
  • Rutland Pippin: This apple originated in Rutland and is still grown in the county today. It’s a must-try for apple lovers.
  • Stilton Cheese: This blue cheese originated in Leicestershire and is still produced in the neighboring counties, including Rutland.

Local Beverages

  • Rutland Gin: Made with botanicals sourced from Rutland, this gin is a must-try for all gin lovers.
  • Rutland Water: This bottled water comes from the large reservoir of Rutland Water, located in the county.

Where to Stay in Rutland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rutland has numerous options for accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Rutland:

  • Barnsdale Hall Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located on the shores of Rutland Water and offers picturesque views of the lake.
  • The Grainstore Brewery Tap: This unique hotel is located in the Grainstore Brewery and offers guests a chance to sample some of the best brews in the county.
  • Rutland Water Camping: This campground offers beautiful views of Rutland Water and is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly accommodation.

What to Buy in Rutland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Rutland offers a range of unique products that are perfect as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the best local products to bring home from Rutland:

  • Melton Mowbray Pork Pies: These savory pies are a staple of Rutland cuisine and make for a perfect gift.
  • Stilton Cheese: This cheese is a must-try in Rutland and also makes for a unique souvenir.
  • Rutland Gin: Made with botanicals sourced from Rutland, this gin is a perfect gift for gin lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Rutland

Rutland has a unique culture and customs, which visitors should be aware of before visiting the county. Here are some insights into the local culture of Rutland:

  • Rutland is known for its rural and agricultural traditions.
  • Rutland is known for being one of the least populated counties in England.

Best Time to Visit Rutland

The best time to visit Rutland is between April and September when the weather is mild, and several festivals and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rutland

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take a walk around Rutland Water.
  • Explore the picturesque villages of Rutland.

Don’t:

  • Cause any harm to the natural environment.
  • Be disrespectful towards the local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage any historical landmarks or sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rutland

Rutland is generally a safe county to visit, and there are no significant safety concerns for visitors.

Health in Rutland

There are no major health concerns for visitors to Rutland.

Getting to Rutland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rutland has several transportation options for visitors, making it easy to get to and navigate around the county.

Airports Near Rutland

  • East Midlands Airport: Located 34 miles from Rutland.
  • Birmingham Airport: Located 57 miles from Rutland.

Bus Stations Near Rutland

  • Oakham Bus Station: Located in the town center.
  • Melton Mowbray Bus Station: Located 11 miles from Rutland.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station to Rutland is Oakham Railway Station.
  • Car: Rutland is easily accessible by car, with several major roads passing through the county.

How to Get Around in Rutland

Rutland is a small county and is easily navigable by car, bike, or public transportation. There are also several hiking trails and footpaths for those who prefer to walk.

Where to Go Next from Rutland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rutland is located in the East Midlands, making it easy to explore some of the nearby destinations and attractions. Here are some of the best destinations to visit after Rutland:

  • Leicester: Located 25 miles from Rutland, Leicester is a vibrant city with museums, galleries, and a bustling food scene.
  • Nottingham: Located 30 miles from Rutland, Nottingham is famous for its association with Robin Hood, and it’s a perfect destination for history lovers and shopping enthusiasts.
  • Cambridge: Located 50 miles from Rutland, Cambridge is known for its world-renowned university, historic landmarks, and picturesque countryside.

Conclusion

Rutland is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique culture of England. With its picturesque villages, verdant countryside, and stunning lake views, it’s sure to captivate the hearts of all who visit. Plan your trip to Rutland today and discover all that this county has to offer.

Map of Rutland Map of Rutland


    Oakham
    Rutland Water