The 10 Things to do in Uppingham, Rutland

Uppingham is popular for those looking for a relaxing and peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

It’s well-known for its independent shops, art galleries, and antique stores, as well as being close to beautiful countryside, historic landmarks, and being just 10 minutes from Rutland Water.

Even though I live in Oakham, it’s only 10 minutes away and we love popping across on the weekend to soak up the atmosphere.

Uppingham is one of the most vibrant market towns in the local area with an active community and events programme – more on that in the full guide below.

It’s also quirky. Did you know it still holds a traditional Fatstock show each November, when local farmers auction their cattle, sheep and pigs in the Market Place?

One of our favourite events of the year is Uppingham’s Christmas lights switch-on.

This sees the town transformed into a winter wonderland with carol singing, mulled wine, festive lights and decorations, and plenty of mince pies.

So without waiting any longer…here’s my list of The 10 Best Things to Do in Uppingham – I hope you enjoy discovering them.

1. Uppingham School

Whenever I take a walk around Uppingham, one of the most fascinating places I come across is Uppingham School.

This independent school was founded in 1584 and has a rich history that is still visible in its architecture and traditions.

Although you can’t walk through the private areas, the school buildings are an important part of Uppingham’s town centre.

The most impressive is the main school building, which was completed in 1864 and features a beautiful clock tower. The building is made of local stone and has a Gothic Revival style that is typical of the era.

Aside from the stunning architecture, Uppingham School is also known for its rich history.

The school has produced many notable former pupils, with many of its former students going on to become influential figures in the community.

2. Friday Morning at Uppingham Market

Uppingham boasts a vibrant and bustling market that takes place every Friday in the Market Place.

The market is open from as early as 8am, and it’s a hive of activity with market traders setting up and serving the early morning customers.

You can find a great variety of products, including fruit and vegetables, meats, household items, jewellery, fresh fish, currys, and even paella and olives.

It’s a great place to meet local people and to experience the town’s culture. Not to mention giving you the chance to support local businesses.

3. Catch A Show At Uppingham Theatre

As someone who loves theatre, I highly recommend a visit to Uppingham Theatre (LE15 9UD). This charming venue is located in the heart of the town and is a must-visit for anyone interested in music, musicals, or theatre attractions.

The theatre has a rich history and a seating capacity of 280, making it an intimate and cozy venue.

It hosts a wide range of events, including plays, musicals, concerts, and comedy shows.

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One of the things I love most about Uppingham Theatre is the variety of shows on offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic plays or modern musicals, there’s something for everyone.

The theatre also hosts a number of events for children, making it a great family-friendly attraction.

The theatre’s location in the heart of Uppingham also makes it a great place to visit after a day of exploring the town. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, making it easy to grab a bite to eat before the show.

4. Uppingham Heritage Trail

Uppingham’s Heritage Trail takes you on a journey through the town’s rich history, from its medieval market charter to the present day. It’s great if you want to fully understand where is Rutland, and the importance of the town.

Starting at Market Place, you can see the first trail board on the railings by the pedestrian crossing. The board contains information about the town’s market, which dates back many years before the granting of the market charter in 1281.

The trail also takes you to The Falcon Hotel, St Peter and St Pauls Church, the site of the old Uppingham Railway Station, The Town Hall and Tod’s Piece.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Uppingham or simply getting to know your bearings, I’d recommend taking this self-guided tour.

5. Antique Shopping in Uppingham

If you’re a fan of antiques, Uppingham is the perfect place to indulge your passion. With a range of antique shops, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

Rutland Antiques Centre (LE15 9NB) is a must-visit for antique enthusiasts. Located on Crown Passage, this centre has an impressive collection of antiques, including furniture, jewellery, clocks, art, and more.

Whether you’re looking for something specific or just browsing, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

Another great option is the Uppingham Antiques Centre (LE15 9PY).

Discover an extensive collection of antiques, including architectural pieces, taxidermy, lighting, porcelain, rugs, glass, and much more. With so many unique items, you’re sure to find something that fits your taste.

6. Independent Shopping and Boutiques in Uppingham

As a shopping destination, Uppingham is home to dozens of independent shops and boutiques that offer a unique and personalised shopping experience. There are very few high street stores here.

Some of our favourites include:

Stitchup (LE15 9PZ) is a charming haberdashery shop that’s perfect for anyone who loves sewing and crafting. The shop has a wide selection of fabrics, yarns, and haberdashery supplies.

If you’re looking for high-quality meat, Nelsons Butchers (LE15 9PZ) is the place to go. This family-run business has been serving the community for over 100 years. They offer a wide selection of locally sourced meat, including beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. They also have a range of homemade pies, sausages, and cooked meats.

For beautiful and unique floral arrangements, head to Earthworks Florist (LE15 9PZ). This independent florist has been in business for over 20 years and offers a wide range of flowers and plants. .

Overall, Uppingham’s independent shops and boutiques offer a personalised and unique shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for books, fabric, meat, or flowers, there’s something for everyone in Uppingham.

7. Food and Drink in Uppingham

When it comes to food and drink, Uppingham has a lot to offer. From quaint cafes to old school pubs, there is something for everyone.

First and foremost, I highly recommend checking out Don Paddy’s Brasserie, Wine Bar and Coffee House (LE15 9QH). It’s perfectly located in the Market Place and has a great choice of menu’s, including a children’s option. Choose from dishes including their special signature Burger, try Prawn and Chorizo Linguine or indulge Seared Seabass Fillet.

If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, The Lake Isle (LE15 9PZ) is a fantastic choice. This restaurant offers a contemporary British menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their wine list is also quite impressive, so it’s a great spot for a special occasion. They also offer luxury accommodation.

For a quick bite or a coffee, The Orchard Cafe at Welland Vale Garden Centre (LE15 9EU) is a great choice. They offer a range of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, as well as a great selection of hot and cold drinks. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to relax and recharge.

Lastly, if you’re looking for something a bit more unique, be sure to check out The Falcon Hotel (LE15 9PY). This historic hotel offers a range of dining options, from their casual bistro to their more formal restaurant. They also have a great selection of cocktails and wines, making it a great spot for a night out.

8. Art Galleries in Uppingham

Uppingham is home to some of the finest galleries in the UK, showcasing a diverse range of art styles and artists.

Peter Barker Fine Art (LE15 9QQ) features a stunning collection of paintings and sculptures by Peter Barker RSMA and other renowned artists from the UK and beyond. The gallery’s collection includes a mix of traditional and contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art lovers of all tastes.

Goldmark Gallery (LE15 9SQ) is an internationally renowned gallery featuring an impressive collection of contemporary art, including paintings, prints, and sculptures. The gallery’s collection includes works by some of the most celebrated artists in the world, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Overall, Uppingham is a fantastic destination for art lovers, with a range of galleries showcasing a diverse collection of art styles and artists.

9. Welland Vale Garden Centre

I recently visited the Welland Vale Garden Centre (LE15 9EU) and was pleasantly surprised by the extensive range of quality home-grown plants, shrubs, climbers and perennials. The centre is just on the outskirts of Uppingham.

As a gardener, I was impressed with the quality of the plants on offer. The centre prides itself on selling only the very best products, and it shows. The plants are healthy, well-cared for, and of a high standard.

Families will love the range of activities on offer at the garden centre. There is a play area for children, and The Orchard Cafe serves delicious food and drinks, including homemade cakes and sandwiches.

The inspirational displays and giftware make it a great place to browse and pick up some unique gifts or items for the home.

10. Uppingham Annual Events

Finally, I’m excited to share with you some of the most anticipated annual events in Uppingham. It’s a really vibrant town with a small army of volunteers behind most of the events that take place.

Feast Day is one of the most popular events of the year. Usually celebrated in June, it is a day of fun, food, and festivities. The town centre is transformed into a lively market with stalls selling local produce, crafts, and gifts. You can enjoy live music, street performers, and a variety of food and drink options.

If you are a fan of classic cars and delicious cheese, then the Stilton Cheese Classic Car Run is an event you don’t want to miss. Taking place every April or May, this event sees over 100 classic cars driving through the beautiful Rutland countryside, with stops at various Stilton cheese producers along the way.

The Fatstock Show is a traditional event that has been running for over 100 years. It usually takes place in November, and is a celebration of the local farming community. The highlight of the event is the livestock auction, where you can see some of the finest cattle, sheep, and pigs from the surrounding farms. There are also stalls selling local produce, crafts, and gifts, as well as traditional fairground rides.

Christmas in Uppingham is a magical time of year. The town is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive lights, decorations, and events. The Christmas lights switch-on is a popular event, with carol singing, mulled wine, and mince pies. There are also Christmas markets, live music, and a variety of festive events throughout December. It’s the perfect time to get into the festive spirit and enjoy some family fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit in Uppingham, Rutland?

Uppingham is a charming market town in Rutland, England. Some of the top attractions to visit in Uppingham include the Goldmark Gallery, the Uppingham Heritage Trails, lots of great food and drink places, alongside antique shops, independent shopping and much more.

What are some popular events happening in Uppingham in 2023?

Uppingham hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Feast Day, the Fatstock Show, and the Christmas Market.

What are some of the best pubs to visit in Uppingham?

Uppingham has a number of excellent pubs, including The Falcon Hotel and The Vaults. The Falcon Hotel is a historic coaching inn that offers a range of local ales and traditional pub food. The Vaults is a cosy pub that offers a range of real ales and live music.

What are some fun things to do around Rutland Water?

There’s plenty of things to do at Rutland Water. It’s a popular destination for outdoor activities such as cycling, walking, and sailing. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and watersports such as windsurfing and kayaking. Other nearby attractions include the Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre and Barnsdale Gardens.

Can you describe what Uppingham is like as a town?

Uppingham is a picturesque town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The town centre is lined with historic buildings and independent shops, while the surrounding countryside offers beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities. Uppingham is also home to the prestigious Uppingham School, which has a reputation for academic excellence and sporting achievements.

What is Uppingham School and what makes it notable?

Uppingham School is a co-educational independent school that was founded in 1584. The school has a long history of academic excellence and sporting achievements, with alumni including Stephen Fry and Rick Stein. Uppingham School is also known for its beautiful campus, which includes historic buildings and extensive sports facilities.