15 Things to do at Rutland Water (Updated 2024)

Hugely popular with both visitors and locals, there’s so many things to do at Rutland Water.

Whether you’re interested in nature, water sports, or just relaxing by the summer beach, there’s something for all everyone.

One of the top attractions is the Nature Reserve. With over 30 bird-watching hides and more than 25,000 waterfowl, it’s a great place for nature lovers to spot a variety of winged visitors, including ospreys (read on to find out more them).

I love spending time at Rutland Water. It’s only 5 minutes from my house and every time I visit, it feels as though I find something new to try and see.

Coming up is my list of some of my favourite things to do and see whilst at Rutland Water. Of course, there’s plenty more to choose from, but I wanted to pick out some of my favourites that I think most people will enjoy.

And one of the best things about Rutland Water is that it’s close to everywhere – it’s just five minutes drive from Oakham, and 10 minutes from Uppingham.

So…here’s my 15 Things To Do And See At Rutland Water – in no particular order!

1. Embrace your Natural Surroundings

Visiting Rutland Water Nature Reserve should be top of the list for nature lovers. It’s internationally known for its wildfowl sanctuary, boasting more than 30 bird-watching hides and a visitor centre at Egleton (LE15 8BT).

Take a stroll along the many walking trails, which offer stunning views of the reserve and the surrounding countryside. There’s also a variety of guided walks and events throughout the year, including bird-watching walks and bat walks.

The nature reserve is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers of all ages.

Children will enjoy exploring and spotting the many different species of birds and other wildlife. Couples will enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see some of the UK’s rarest and most beautiful birds in their natural habitat.

2. Visit Normanton Church

Normanton Church is a historic and iconic building located on the south shore of Rutland Water. It’s a great attraction for families, couples, and nature lovers.

The deconsecrated church is now a popular wedding venue, but you can still walk around the outside of the building when it’s not in use.

The church was set to be demolished when Rutland Water was created in the 1970s, but a local campaign saved the building.

It was successfully raised above the water and a causeway built. Now it’s very much Rutland’s iconic landmark.

Park at Normanton Car Park (LE15 8HD) where there are toilets, picnic areas, a cycle shop and The Waterside Cafe. It’s also where you’ll find the fishing lodge.

Once at the church, check out a great hidden bench facing the water – unseen from the shore – that is sheltered, sunny and a great place to sit on a summer evening.

3. Rutland Water Beach

Pack your bucket and spade and head to Sykes Lane (LE15 8QL) near Empingham, where you will find Rutland Water Beach.

Perfect for a sunny day with family and friends, opening hours can vary week-to-week so please do check the Anglian Water website before you make plans.

The beach opens only during the summer months and has a designated life-guarded area for swimming. It can get incredibly busy here, so keep a close eye on your children.

4. Get Your Walking Boots On

With 25 miles of footpaths and trails, walking is one of the most popular activities at Rutland Water. It’s a great opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside and enjoy stunning views of the reservoir.

The ultimate challenge is a 22 mile route that takes you around the whole reservoir. Start and finish in any Rutland Water Car Park, and keep to the maintained trails. It should take about 9 hours.

My favourite short walk takes you between Sykes Lane Car Park (LE15 8QL) and Normanton Church. This 5-mile walk across the Dam offers incredible views across Rutland Water. Parking, toilets and food and drink can be found at both Normanton and Sykes Lane. Expect to take an hour in each direction – 2 hours total.

And for something different, head to Hambleton. This peninsula sits in the middle of Rutland Water and there’s a really enjoyable circular 6 mile walk starting and finishing in the village. The path hugs the shoreline and is great for nature spotting.

Walkers should wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. Dogs are allowed on some trails but must be kept on a lead.

5. Explore Rutland Water On Two Wheels

Cycling is one of the most popular activities at Rutland Water, with thousands of people enjoying the sights every weekend.

There’s a well-maintained path all around the reservoir and a variety of trails to choose from. Pick easy family-friendly routes or something more challenging.

Rutland Cycling offers a range of bikes for hire at both Whitwell and Normanton, including mountain bikes (£30), electric bikes (£40), children’s bikes (£12), and tandems (£45).

Top tip: Book online to avoid disappointment. Rutland Water gets busy at weekends and there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to hire a bike if you just turn up.

Cycling is a great way to explore Rutland Water, and there are plenty of options available for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a complete beginner, there’s a trail to suit you.

6. Set Sail Aboard The Rutland Belle

One of the best ways to enjoy Rutland Water is a trip aboard the Rutland Belle.

This rustic pleasure cruiser can seat up to 110 passengers and offers a completely different perceptive of the reservoir than you get from the shore.

There’s also a really interesting commentary throughout your trip, letting you know about points of interest along the route.

The Rutland Belle sails from Whitwell, with departures throughout the day throughout the summer months. Most people take the one-hour circular cruise, which sometimes stops to pick up passengers at Normanton – but check first!

There are also special events throughout the year including a gin cruise, osprey cruise and even private hire wedding cruises!

7. Thrills and Spills at Rutland Aqua Park

Rutland Water Aqua Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fun water adventure.

The park covers over 8,000 square meters of slides, climbs, and balance beams, with more than 40 obstacles for you to get wiped out on.

Children under 6 years old are not allowed on the Aqua Park, which can be found at Whitwell (LE15 8BL), and children under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

To book a session, simply visit the Aqua Park Website and select your preferred date and time. The park offers a range of sessions, including one or two hours “dips”. Prices start from £20 per person.

The Aqua Park offers everything you need for a fun day out, including wetsuit hire and changing facilities. It is recommended that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your session to allow time for check-in and changing.

8. Rutland Water Fishing

Rutland Water is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, pike, zander, and perch. The fishing season runs from March to November, with the best time for trout fishing being from April to June and September to November.

Visitors can fish from the bank or hire a boat from the Rutland Water Fishing Lodge (LE15 8HD). The lodge offers fishing lessons and boat handling lessons for beginners, along with fishing equipment for hire, including rods, reels, and waders.

There’s also guided fishing trips for those who want to explore the lake with an experienced guide.

9. Learn About The Osprey

Lyndon (LE15 8RN) is one of two visitor centres at Rutland Water Nature Reserve, and was opened by Sir David Attenborough in 1985. .

Visitors can enjoy learning more about the Rutland Osprey Project, either from the helpful and knowledge volunteers, or by watching the live webcam in the centre.

Lyndon is the perfect place to spend a few hours. On one side of the building is floor to ceiling windows, providing a great view across the water. There’s also handy bird identification panels so you can brush up on your knowledge.

Afterwards, enjoy a walk through the reserve, stopping off at a hide or two on the way to Manton Bay – and who knows, you might get lucky and see an Osprey for yourself.

10. Rutland Water Mini Golf

There’s a great mini golf course at Sykes Lane Car Park. I’ve taken my daughter lots and she always really enjoys it.

The course is situated near one of the on-site catering huts, so it’s ideal to get something to eat and drink afterwards.

Mini golf at Rutland Water is open from 10am daily, and it’s great value for money with family rates and seasonal discounts.

You pay and collect your club from the Tourist Information Centre, which is right next door.

The course is a fun and challenging 18-hole layout, suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Sykes Lane also has a playground, beach, walking and cycling trails. So it’s great for families.

11. Rutland Tourist Information Centre

A great place to start your visit to Rutland, the centre provides has all the information you need to make the most of your time here.

Find maps, guides, and brochures about the local attractions, events, and activities. The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations and advice.

There’s also some really nice souvenirs and gifts to take home, either as a memory for yourself or a present for someone else.

12. Enjoy Local Food and Drink

When visiting Rutland Water, visitors can expect to find a range of food and drink options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Each of the main car parks around Rutland Water has some sort of food and drink option, from small takeaway kiosks, right through to sit-down restaurants.

Normanton’s Waterside Café has a daily menu with panoramic water views.

Meanwhile, Harbour Café in Whitwell offers versatile options. Enjoy grab-and-go treats downstairs in warmer months, and relish wine and dine experiences upstairs throughout the year. On sunny days, savour chilled prosecco on the balcony; when it’s colder, cozy up by the fire with a hearty bloomer sandwich or homemade soup.

Elsewhere, for quick bites, there are takeaway options at: Sykes Lane Kiosk and Harbour Bar Downstairs are open weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays, while Normanton Church Kiosk and Whitwell Fox Cafe operate during weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays.

13. Luxury Dining Close to Rutland Water

Our most popular spot for food and drink at Rutland Water is Hambleton, which conveniently is situated right in the middle of Rutland Water.

Here in this small village, visitors can find two amazing options.

First is The Finch’s Arms (LE15 8TL), a traditional pub serving up classic British dishes and a variety of beers and wines. The pub also boasts a beautiful beer garden, perfect for enjoying a drink in the sunshine.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Finchs Arms (@thefinchsarms)

If you want to look for something even more luxurious, Hambleton Hall Hotel has a Michelin-starred restaurant. Offering stunning views of the lake, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic meal or special occasion.

14. Rutland Water Watersports

Rutland Water is a great place to enjoy water sports. The park offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.

There’s sailing lessons for beginners and advanced sailors at The Rutland Sailing Club, located on the south shore near the village of Edith Weston. Here you can also try windsurfing, taking part in a number of local courses and events.

Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore Rutland Water. The park offers kayak and canoe rentals at The Watersports Centre at Whitwell. They also offer Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) rentals and lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Rutland Water has something for everyone. Families, couples, nature lovers, and older people can all enjoy the water sports activities available at Rutland Water.

15. Rutland Water All Action Gaming

For those who love a bit of adventure, head to Rumble Live, an award-winning outdoor laser tag arena that provides state-of-the-art equipment for players.

I’ve not done this yet but it’s certainly on the list for this year. The website bills it as a chance to take some of the most popular online games – like Call of Duty and Fortnite – into the real world.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rumble Live Action Gaming | Rutland Water (@rumblerutland)

You can take advantage of respawns, medic packs, ammo boxes, special weapon upgrades, kill streaks and air strikes.

Rumble Live is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends who want to experience the thrill of laser tag in a beautiful natural setting.

Frequently Asked Questions