Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rutland Water Car Park
Planning a trip to Rutland Water? This guide breaks down every Rutland Water car park, helping you choose the best spot based on what you want to see and do.
Choosing the right Rutland Water car park can make a big difference to your day.
With multiple parking areas surrounding the reservoir – each offering its own mix of facilities, walking routes and access to key attractions – it helps to know which one suits your plans best.
Some car parks are perfect for cycling and watersports, while others put you closer to nature trails, picnic areas or the main visitor centres. Picking the ideal spot saves time, avoids unnecessary walking and sets you up for a smooth, enjoyable visit.
I’ve been using the Rutland Water car parks year-round, so I know their strengths, quirks and hidden advantages. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to choose the best place to park.
My Top 3 Tips for Visitors
- Best for BBQ’s: Head to Sykes Lane for family activities and plenty of picnic spots and BBQ stands so you can grill your food safely
- Best for Cycle Hire: Head for Whitwell if you’re planning on exploring Rutland Water on two wheels and need to hire a bike
- Best for busy summer days: Barnsdale is the quietest of the car parks, as there’s not much there. So it’s great for parking, but it’s only a short walk from Whitwell – so park there to avoid the crowds on busy summer days
There are a number of Rutland Water car parks, including Whitwell, Barnsdale, Normanton, and Sykes Lane. All of them provide easy access to the various attractions and activities at the reservoir.
But how do you know which one to head for? Keep reading.
Rutland Water Car Park Guide
This guide will help you choose the best Rutland Water car park for your visit by providing an overview of each location and what to expect.
Whether you’re planning a short visit or a full-day adventure, finding the right car park can make your experience more convenient and enjoyable.
Parking prices vary depending on the length of stay, and opening hours differ between car parks, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance to avoid any surprises.
Which Rutland Water Car Park?
| Car Park | Head here for… |
|---|---|
| Sykes Lane, Empingham Postcode: LE15 8QL (jump to full review) | Dog walking area Rutland Water Beach Mini Golf Tourist Information Centre Children’s Adventure Playground Rutland Live Action Gaming Cafe |
| Normanton Postcode: LE15 8HD (jump to full review) | Normanton Church Fishing Lodge Rutland Belle (pick up point) Waterside Cafe Takeaway food kiosk |
| Whitwell LE15 8BL (jump to full review) | Aqua Park Rutland Belle Rutland Watersports Bike Hire (Rutland Cycling) Children’s Play Area Harbour Bar Cafe Takeaway Cafe Outdoor Gym |
| Barnsdale LE15 8AB (jump to full review) | Children’s Play Area |
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about parking at Rutland Water.
1. Sykes Lane Car Park Rutland Water (LE15 8QL)
Situated on the North Shore close to the village of Empingham, Sykes Lane is a great parking spot for families looking for a fun day out at Rutland Water.
The site is home to several attractions including mini-golf and a large and popular children’s adventure play area.
This is also where you’ll find the Rutland Water Beach car park and is also the best place to head for Rumble Live, the outdoor laser tag gaming centre.
Sykes Lane is also ideally situated at the eastern end of the dam, which makes for a pleasant walk/cycle across the width of the reservoir, with superb views back towards Oakham.
Visitors can take a break and grab something to eat or drink at Four Foxes Café. Or if you’re wanting to find out more about Rutland, it’s here you’ll find the Rutland Water Visitor Centre.
Pick up information about the park, maps, and souvenirs. The Visitor Centre also has a toilets, making it a great start or end point for your visit to Rutland Water.
Depending on the weather at Rutland Water, there are also designated areas for BBQs, which must be raised off the grass.
Insider Tip
Smaller children on bikes or scooters will LOVE going across the dam. It’s flat and straight for about a mile, a smooth and an easy ride.
2. Normanton Car Park Rutland Water (LE15 8HD)
This Rutland Water car park, located near the village of Edith Weston, is an excellent starting point for exploring the reservoir, whether you’re planning a scenic walk, a day of fishing, or watersports.
The car park offers convenient access to several key attractions, including the Rutland Water Fishing Lodge and the historic church nearby.
For those interested in a leisurely boat ride, the Rutland Belle stops here on select sailings – be sure to check the timetable in advance to avoid getting stranded!
When it’s time to refuel, the Waterside Café serves a variety of food and drinks in a relaxed setting. Additionally, there are popular catering kiosks nearby, along with a small seating area for visitors to enjoy.
Insider Tip
The grassed area that heads down to the water from the car park is a lovely elevated position to enjoy a picnic, and watch the world go by on Rutland Water.
3. Whitwell Car Park Rutland Water (LE15 8BL)
Whitwell is probably the Rutland Water car park I use most often, as it’s the closest to my home in Oakham.
It’s also my go-to spot when bringing friends and family, thanks to its convenient bike hire facilities and its role as the starting point for the popular Rutland Belle boat trip.
As one of the largest car parks at Rutland Water, Whitwell is an excellent choice for visitors planning an active day out, whether it’s cycling, walking, or enjoying time on the water.
You can try your hand at watersports or perhaps throw yourself around the inflatable Aqua Park adventure course.
There’s also an outdoor gym for fitness enthusiasts and a playground for children.
And when it’s time to take a break, The Harbour Bar Café and Four Foxes Café are available to provide a choice of food and drink.
Insider Tip
If you’re wanting to hire a bike at Rutland Water, then I’d strongly advise you do so in advance, to avoid dissapointment.
4. Rutland Water Barnsdale Car Park (LE15 8AB)
This is the closest Rutland Water car park to Oakham, but also the one with fewest facilities.
It occupies a secluded spot and is only open between the middle of March and the end of October. It also closes slightly earlier than all of the other sites.
Insider Tip
Barnsdale is a great option in the busy summer months and only a short walk from Whitwell. I’d much prefer to park here and walk, and avoid the crowds.
Rutland Water Car Park Opening Times
All of the car parks at Rutland Water open from 9am each day.
Car Park Closing Times
These are the latest car park closing times. But be sure to check the latest on the Anglian Water website or noticeboards at each car park if you’re not sure.
Closing times for Normanton, Sykes Lane & Whitwell are as follows. These are the 2026 times.
| From 1st January | Car parks close at 16:00 |
| From 1st February | Car parks close at 17:00 |
| From 1st March | Car parks close at 18:00 |
| From 27th March | Car parks close at 19:00 |
| From 1st May | Car parks close at 20:00 |
| From 1st September | Car parks close at 19:00 |
| From 1st October | Car parks close at 18:00 |
| From 26 October | Car parks close at 16:00 |
Barnsdale Car Park closes 30 minutes before all of the above times.
Car Park Charges
All of the Rutland Water Car Parks have a barrier ticket system.
When you arrive, you pull up alongside the barrier and take a ticket. Keep hold of this, and before you leave visit one of the machine and pay for your parking. Cash, card or contactless payments are accepted.
You then have about 10 minutes to leave the car park. Drive up to the barrier, and it should recognise your vehicle and automatically open.
As of 2026, the charges are as follows:
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| Up to 15 minutes | No charge |
| Up to 6 hours | £2 per hour |
| Over 6 hours (all day) | £16 |
Rutland Water Car Parks also offers an annual car parking permit for £80, which provides access to the following Anglian Water Water Parks: Rutland Water, Alton Water, Grafham Water, Ravensthorpe Reservoir, Taverham Mill, or Pitsford Water Park.
You can buy a pass from the Visitor Centre at Sykes Lane or online at the Anglian Water website.
Nearby Towns
Spending a day at Rutland Water is great fun, but why not make the most of your trip and visit either Oakham or Uppingham.
Here’s some information I’ve put together on both, which will hopefully persuade you to make a trip.
Oakham
Oakham is the county town of Rutland and well worth a visit. There’s plenty of things to do in Oakham.
Go to Oakham Castle, with its unique horseshoe collection hanging from the walls.
Then take a leisurely stroll around Oakham’s quaint streets and admire the town’s historic architecture, including the Buttercross and Oakham School buildings.
Oakham is home to a lots of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Sample a pork pie from nearby Melton Mowbray, or head to the Grainstore for some Rutland beer.
Uppingham
A small market town just south of Rutland Water, there is plenty of things to do in Uppingham.
From the stunning architecture of Uppingham School, to hidden antique shops, the quaint local streets are just waiting to be explored.
Spend time exploring the Market Place, in the heart of the town. Here you’ll find independent shops, cafes and restaurants.
Just around the corner is the Goldmark Art Gallery, with its extensive collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery.
And why not finish your trip with a visit to either The Falcon Hotel or The Vaults, two popular pubs where you can enjoy locally brewed beer and some great food.
Rutland Water Car Park FAQs
Which Rutland Water car park is best for families?
Sykes Lane is the top choice for families. It offers a beach area, mini golf, a big adventure playground, Rumble Live gaming, cafés and easy access to flat walking and cycling routes across the dam. It does get busy in summer, so arrive early.
Where should I park at Rutland Water for cycling or bike hire?
Whitwell is the best Rutland Water car park for cycling, especially if you need to hire a bike from Rutland Cycling. It also connects directly to the main circular route around the reservoir. Booking bike hire in advance is strongly recommended.
What is the quietest Rutland Water car park?
Barnsdale is usually the quietest car park, particularly on busy summer days. It has fewer facilities, but it’s only a short walk from Whitwell, making it a great option if other car parks are full.
Which Rutland Water car park is closest to Normanton Church?
The Normanton car park (LE15 8HD) is the closest and offers the quickest access to the iconic Normanton Church. It’s ideal for scenic walks, photography and for catching the Rutland Belle on select sailings.
5. How much does parking cost at Rutland Water?
Parking is free for the first 15 minutes, then £2 per hour for up to 6 hours. Anything over 6 hours is a flat £16. An annual parking permit is available for £80 and covers several Anglian Water parks, including Rutland Water.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Rutland Water car park can transform your visit from good to great. Each location around the reservoir offers something different – from family-friendly attractions and watersports hubs to peaceful picnic spots and quieter walking areas. Understanding what each car park provides helps you plan your day with confidence and avoid unnecessary detours.
While parking is usually straightforward, peak times such as sunny weekends and school holidays can get busy across all sites. If you’re visiting during these times, aim to arrive before 10am to secure a good spot and enjoy a more relaxed start to your day.
Whether you’re here for cycling, sightseeing, family fun or simply soaking up the views, a little preparation goes a long way. With this guide, you should now have all the information you need to pick the best parking area and make the most of your trip to Rutland Water. Enjoy your visit!
