About Rutland: Everything you’ve always wanted to know (and more!)

Are you planning a trip and have unanswered questions about Rutland? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Perhaps you also want to know about the two towns, or maybe you’re looking for a traditional picture-postcard village with a pub?

Do you want to know what’s on offer at Rutland Water? Or the best nearby attractions if you’re looking to take a short break.

Luckily, I’ve lived here for 20 years so I know the answer to all of those questions – and much more!

What is Rutland?

Nestled in the East Midlands, Rutland is England’s smallest historic county.

Rutland Water and the market towns of Oakham and Uppingham provide a great mix of old and new.

Rutland was once a district of neighbouring Leicestershire but regained its status as an independent county in 1997.

Rutland offers a great mix of rural countryside and charming market towns. Here at Love Rutland, we often hear it referred to as ‘the Cotswolds without the crowds’.

With great transport links via the A1 (north/south) and A47 (east/west), the area is a popular day visit or short break destination.

Where is Rutland?

Despite being somewhere that many people have heard of, it’s not often that someone can pinpoint exactly where it is.

Its actual location is close to several counties, including Leicestershire to the west and north, Lincolnshire to the northeast, and Northamptonshire to the south.

Close to Stamford and Leicester

• Distance to Stamford: Approximately 8 miles south-east of Rutland’s county town, Oakham.
  • Transport links:
    • A local bus service operates between Oakham and Stamford, making the journey easily accessible.
    • There’s also a direct train between Oakham and Stamford, which takes about 10 minutes.
    • The drive via the A606 takes roughly 20 minutes, depending on traffic. You get great views of Rutland Water shortly after leaving Oakham.
      
• Distance to Leicester: Around 25 miles to the west of Oakham.
  • Transport connections:
    • Direct train services are available from Oakham station to Leicester, taking approximately 30 minutes.
    • By road, the A47 provides a direct route, with the journey taking about 40 minutes most days.

Both Stamford and Leicester offer contrasting experiences. 

Stamford, with its stone architecture and local history, provides a window into England’s traditional market town heritage. Just outside Stamford you can find the famous Burghley House.

In contrast, Leicester is a bustling city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and prominent landmarks such as the National Space Centre and the King Richard III visitor centre.

What’s the history of Rutland?

Local history centres around Uppingham and Oakham.

In Uppingham, you’ll find a market town with a history rich in the education sector, especially renowned for Uppingham School, which was founded in 1584.

Oakham, the county town, is known for its Norman castle, which features a remarkable collection of horseshoes hanging from the walls.

Throughout history, these served as a symbol of peerage visiting the town. There’s also a Museum and lots of independent shopping.

Here’s a brief timeline highlighting key historical points:

• 12th Century: Oakham Castle was built, and soon after, All Saints Church was founded.
• 1584: Uppingham School was established.
• 1974: Rutland was merged with Leicestershire
• 1997 – only to be reinstated as a separate county.

Why should you visit?

To start with, there’s Rutland Water, one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Midlands.

It’s a focal point for birdwatching, watersports, walking and cycling.

Both Oakham and Uppingham also showcase the very best of British market towns.

We think the best times to visit are either:

• Spring (March to May): The countryside is full of flowers, and the weather is mild, ideal for spending time outdoors, particularly at Rutland Water, which isn’t as busy as the height of the summer months. Rutland in Spring is a great choice.
• Autumn (September to November): Stunning backdrops for walks and photography, and the smell of real fires drift across local villages.

Here’s a brief overview:

Season	Spring	Summer	Autumn	Winter
Weather	Mild	Warm	Cool, colourful foliage	Crisp, potentially snowy
Activities	Nature walks, cycling	Watersports, festivals	Hiking, sightseeing	Cosy indoor pursuits

How many days do you need here?

Lots of people visit just for the day, the majority enjoying all of the things to do at Rutland Water. But it’s also a popular short break destination

A stay of 2-3 days is good for seeing the area properly, visiting key attractions such as the County Museum and Lyddington Bede House (open during summer months only).

Is Rutland good for outdoor activities?

The county is one of the best places in the UK to spend time outdoors. With its beautiful countryside and well-maintained walking routes, it’s a haven for fans of walking and cycling.

Walking

Rutland Water, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, features a 23-mile perimeter track that is a walker’s delight. The footpaths are well-marked, with easy access to local villages and offering great countryside views.

You can choose shorter circuits if you prefer a more leisurely stroll.

• Short Walks: Hambleton Peninsula, Egleton Nature Reserve, 5-7 miles
• Long Walks: Full circuit, 23 miles

Cycling in Rutland

As for cycling, there are breathtaking routes catering to all skill levels.

At Rutland Water, you have the opportunity to hire bikes and explore a 17-mile track that encircles the water.

The route is mostly flat and well-suited for family rides.

Additionally, there are more challenging routes for seasoned cyclists.

• Family Route: Family Track, 17 miles, mostly flat
• Advanced Route: Loop including Hambleton, 23 miles, varied terrain

What’s the best way to get around?

Buses: Rutland is a rural area, so don’t expect a level of service you’d find in a city.

Regular services connect Oakham and Uppingham with the villages, and neighbouring areas. But there are no buses on a Sunday!

Taxis: There are local companies – Berridges is the most well known – that offer a pre-booked taxi service. It’s worth being aware that they can be in short supply at peak periods. For example, school pickup and drop-off times, and Friday and Saturday evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions