Planning Your Perfect Rutland Water Day Trip
A Rutland Water day trip is the perfect way to escape into nature, with endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and…
A Rutland Water day trip is the perfect way to escape into nature, with endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and family fun.
This stunning reservoir is one of the most popular day-out destinations in the UK, drawing over a million visitors each year.
Whether you’re cycling the scenic 23-mile route, sailing across the vast open water, or spotting ospreys in their natural habitat, Rutland Water has something for everyone.
Try paddleboarding or kayaking, explore the beautiful nature reserves, or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic with breathtaking views. With 3,100 acres of rolling countryside and glistening water, it’s a place that keeps visitors coming back time and time again.
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Where is Rutland Water
Nestled in the heart of England’s East Midlands near the market town of Oakham, Rutland Water stands as Britain’s largest man-made lake by surface area.
This impressive water body stretches across 3,100 acres of rolling countryside, reaching depths of up to 34 metres.
Created in the 1970s from what was once agricultural land, the reservoir marked a significant change in the local landscape.
With three main car parks at Sykes Lane, Whitwell, and Normanton, visitors can easily access different areas of this vast expanse, making it perfect for memorable day trips.
History of Rutland Water
In the 1970s, the quiet farmlands of Hambleton underwent a remarkable change as work began on what would become Rutland Water.
The project, reaching completion in 1978, saw the creation of what was first known as Empingham Reservoir.
This carefully planned development went beyond simple water storage, with planners setting aside 1,000 acres as a nature reserve area even before construction began.
The foresight shown in the reservoir’s design proved successful, as it now serves both as a vital water source and a popular recreational space for visitors.
Walking and Cycling Paths
The paths around Rutland Water offer plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.
A 23-mile track circles the entire reservoir, taking in stunning views across the water and connecting visitor centres, attractions and cafes at Sykes Lane, Whitwell, and Normanton.
Families can enjoy gentle strolls along well-maintained footpaths, while the North Shore features a flat, accessible trail perfect for beginners across the dam.
In contrast, the South Shore is a bit more hilly. Bike hire is available at Whitwell car park, with options ranging from standard bikes to tandems.
Watersports
The North Shore Watersports Centre welcomes visitors with an array of water-based activities.
Guests can take to the water through sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, all overseen by friendly, qualified instructors. The centre holds British Canoeing and RYA certifications, putting safety at the forefront of every session.
Operating hours vary seasonally, with peak times running from May through August between 9:00 and 18:00.
Equipment hire is readily available, making it simple for families and individuals to spend time on the water without needing their own gear.
Birdwatching and Nature
Along Rutland Water’s western shore lies a 1,000-acre nature reserve area, home to more than 25,000 waterfowl. Visitors can spot various species from 30 thoughtfully placed birdwatching hides, connected by nature trails and supported by two visitor centres.
The Rutland Osprey Project, started in 1996, brought these magnificent birds back to central England, with the first chick hatching in 2001. Over 200 osprey chicks have taken flight since then.
The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre at Egleton offers a viewing gallery and wheelchair-accessible hides.
The reserve features varied habitats including woodland, grassland, and wetlands, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
Fishing Facilities
Rutland Water offers both trout and coarse fishing across its waters, with several prime spots along its 23-mile shoreline.
The north and south shores provide well-maintained fishing areas complete with platforms and easy bank access.
Anglers need a valid Environment Agency rod licence and a Rutland Water fishing permit, available at local tackle shops and visitor centres.
From April to October, boat fishing takes centre stage, with craft available for hire at the fishing lodge. Both beginners and experienced anglers can book guided sessions with local instructors who share their knowledge of the best fishing spots.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Rutland Water Beach at Sykes Lane is a 140-metre sandy shoreline and 2,800m² swimming area welcome families throughout summer, with trained lifeguards keeping watch during opening hours.
Children can splash about in the designated swimming zones while parents relax on the sand. The surrounding grounds offer well-maintained playgrounds and peaceful picnic spots beneath shady trees.
For families seeking refreshments, seasonal kiosks serve ice creams and light snacks. During peak times, stewards help manage visitor flow, ensuring everyone has space to enjoy their day out.
Nearby Points of Interest
A visit to Rutland Water pairs wonderfully with the charm of nearby Oakham, a classic English market town filled with independent shops and cafes. The town’s historic castle and buttercross offer glimpses into centuries past, making it an ideal stop before or after time at the reservoir.
Standing proudly above the water’s surface, Normanton Church catches the eye with its distinctive silhouette. Saved from submersion in 1970, this graceful building now rests on a purpose-built peninsula, offering stunning photo opportunities throughout the year.
From April to October, the Rutland Belle glide across the water, giving passengers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. These 45-minute trips show off the best angles of Normanton Church and provide a gentle way to appreciate the reservoir’s scale.
Food/Drink and Picnic Areas
Each of Rutland Water’s main areas – Sykes Lane, Whitwell, and Normanton – features seasonal cafes offering light refreshments, hot drinks, and ice creams.
The Harbour Bar at Whitwell Creek serves hearty portions of fish and chips, while the Normanton Bay Restaurant presents waterside dining with views across the reservoir.
For those bringing their own food, well-maintained picnic areas dot the shoreline, with wooden tables and benches perfectly positioned for lake views.
The grassy spaces near Rutland Water Beach make ideal spots for family picnics, with plenty of shade from mature trees.
Visitor Facilities
Rutland Water maintains car parks all around Rutland Water, offering clean toilets and seasonal refreshment kiosks. During busy periods, overflow parking areas come into operation. Blue Badge holders receive priority access to the main car parks.
The site caters well for visitors with mobility needs, featuring wheelchair-accessible paths and dedicated viewing areas in the birdwatching hides.
Cycle hire at Whitwell provides a range of bikes, including adaptive cycles and children’s equipment.
Getting Here
Rutland Water sits within easy reach by road, with well-signposted routes from the A1 and A47. The nearest railway station is Oakham, a 10-minute taxi ride from the water’s edge. Local bus services run from Oakham and Stamford.
Each car park offers ample spaces, with daily tickets valid across all the main sites – including Sykes Lane, Whitwell, and Normanton.
Visitors can reach the water by bicycle via National Cycle Network Route 63, which links directly to Oakham station.
Best Times to Visit
The most rewarding time to visit Rutland Water Park is between May and September when the days are longer and warmer.
Summer weekends draw larger crowds to the beach and watersports centre, so weekday visits offer a quieter experience.
Spring brings the return of ospreys and wildflower displays, while autumn paints the shoreline in golden hues as migrating birds gather at the nature reserve.
For watersports enthusiasts, the peak season runs from May through August, with extended hours from 9:00 to 18:00.
Early morning visits during these months provide calmer waters and smaller crowds.
Winter offers peaceful walks and excellent birdwatching opportunities, though some facilities operate on reduced hours. Bank holidays tend to be particularly busy, so arriving early helps secure parking and preferred activity spots.
Conservation Efforts
Rutland Water pairs with the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust to maintain its status as a vital sanctuary for local wildlife.
The 1,000-acre nature reserve, running along the western shore, plays a central role in supporting over 25,000 waterfowl and rare plant species across varied habitats including wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands.
Local volunteers work alongside the trust to monitor wildlife populations and maintain the natural areas.
Visitors can join guided walks to learn about ongoing projects, including habitat management and species protection programmes.
The reserve’s carefully managed lagoons, added in 2011, provide essential breeding grounds for water birds while supporting the area’s rich biodiversity.
Scenic Beauty and Photography Opportunities
The shoreline of Rutland Water Park presents countless photo opportunities, with Normanton Church standing as the most photographed landmark.
This Victorian church, perched above the water on its artificial peninsula, catches golden light at sunrise and sunset.
The western nature reserve offers hidden viewpoints from its 30 bird hides, perfect for capturing waterfowl against misty morning waters.
During spring, the wildflower meadows near Egleton provide colourful foregrounds, while autumn brings rich colours to the woodland walks.
The North Shore’s open vistas allow sweeping shots across the water, particularly atmospheric when early morning fog rolls across the surface.
For evening shots, the Whitwell Creek area faces west, offering stunning sunsets reflecting off the water’s surface.
Rutland Water Day Trip FAQ
Rutland Water offers a variety of activities, including cycling, walking, sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking. You can also visit the nature reserves, take a boat cruise, or relax on the beach at Sykes Lane.
Yes! Rutland Water is perfect for families, with dedicated play areas, a sandy beach, bike hire, watersports, and plenty of picnic spots. The Aqua Park, mini golf, and Bugtopia Zoo nearby add even more fun for kids.
The full circular route is around 23 miles, taking approximately 7-8 hours to walk or 2-3 hours to cycle. Bike hire is available at Normanton and Whitwell if you don’t have your own.
Yes! There are several cafés and pubs around Rutland Water, including The Harbour Café at Whitwell, Normanton Park Hotel, and local pubs in villages like Hambleton and Edith Weston. Many visitors also bring their own picnic to enjoy by the water.
The Perfect Day Out at Rutland Water
As the sun sets over Rutland Water, it’s clear why this is one of the region’s finest day-trip locations. From the gentle lap of waves against Normanton Church to the excited chatter of families enjoying the beach, every corner of this vast reservoir has something to offer.
Whether you come for the world-class water sports, the renowned birdwatching, or simply to escape the bustle of daily life, Rutland Water offers something truly special.
