Rutland: Experience Cultural Heritage and Nature

Cultural Heritage and Museums

The Great Hall of Oakham Castle was built between 1180 and 1190 and is considered the best-preserved example of Norman secular architecture in Europe. It houses a unique collection of more than 230 elaborate ceremonial horseshoes donated by nobles and peers of the realm. The castle grounds and Great Hall are free to visit; check access arrangements before your visit.

The Rutland County Museum focuses on archaeological exhibits relating to Rutland’s early history. Notable objects include the only surviving New Drop Gallows in England. The museum also holds children’s workshops during half-term and school holidays. Check the dates if you are planning to attend one.

Lyddington Bede House was once a wing of a palace belonging to the Bishops of Lincoln. Visitors can see the Bedesmen’s rooms, with their small windows and fireplaces, the striking timber roof, and the Bishops’ Great Chamber with its carved Tudor cornice. The individual rooms and architectural features give the house its distinctive character.

Nature by the Water and in the Reserve

Rutland Water Nature Reserve regularly hosts more than 25,000 waterfowl. An osprey pair began nesting in Manton Bay in 2007. You can watch the birds via a live nest webcam and from the Waderscape Hide; wildlife visibility may vary seasonally.

Two walking trails from the Lyndon Visitor Centre pass through woodland and meadows and along the bay. Both trails are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The Rutland Water Visitor Centre provides information about the reservoir’s history and the nature reserve’s wildlife; maps and information about cycling routes are also available there.

Ketton Quarry is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Its grassland, scrub and woodland, reclaimed by nature, provide habitats for butterflies, moths, wildflowers and reptiles. Summer is considered the best season for a walk in the quarry.

For a different perspective on designed green spaces, visit Barnsdale Gardens, which comprises 38 small, individually themed garden rooms. Here, the variety of garden spaces takes centre stage, while Ketton Quarry is shaped by its reclaimed habitats and their wildlife and plant life.

Activities and Special Places

Rutland Farm Park is a working farm on 18 acres in Oakham. Visitors can explore its paths and meet and feed the animals. The grounds and close contact with the animals are both part of the experience.

Rocks by Rail is an open-air museum on 19 acres of a restored quarry site with railway tracks. It has the UK’s only comprehensive collection of standard-gauge quarry locomotives and rolling stock. Activities include nature trails, train rides, the chance to drive a historic locomotive and workshop tours; check operating days before your visit. The Oakham Loop cycleway passes the museum grounds.

The deconsecrated Normanton Church was made accessible from the shore of Rutland Water by a causeway and raised approach. Mallard Point in Essendine is a family-run vineyard with its own single vineyard and a distillery that offers tours. The business produces local gins as well as still and sparkling wines. Check the current tour schedule before visiting.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Morcott, Lyddington, Uppingham, Ashwell, Greetham, Clipsham, Cottesmore, Langham, Seaton, North Luffenham, Oakham, Empingham.

Go to the main travel overview: East Midlands.