What’s The Closest Town To Rutland Water? (And How To Get There!)

If you’re planning a visit to the local area, you might be wondering what the closest town is to Rutland Water.

The closest town to Rutland Water, and easiest to get to, is the charming market town of Oakham. It’s just west of the reservoir.

Oakham is the county town of Rutland and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodation, making it a great base for exploring the area.

In addition to being the closest town to Rutland Water (it’s less than 5 miles from the furthest point), Oakham is also home to a number of attractions and historical landmarks.

The town’s iconic Buttercross, a Grade II listed building, dates back to the 17th century and is a popular spot for photos.

You can also visit Oakham Castle, which was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest surviving Norman buildings in England.

Explore Oakham

If you’re looking for things to do at Rutland Water, then Oakham is the closest town to the reservoir.

The market town is just five miles away from the furthest point of Rutland Water and has plenty of things to do to keep you entertained.

Local Attractions in Oakham

Firstly, one of the town’s most prominent landmarks is Oakham Castle, renowned for its well-preserved Norman architecture and an impressive collection of ceremonial horseshoes donated by visiting nobility.

Nearby, Rutland County Museum offers fascinating exhibits on local heritage and archaeology.

The picturesque Oakham Market Place is a lively hub with a traditional market on a Wednesday and Saturday, quaint shops, and delightful cafes.

Additionally, All Saints’ Church, with its stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings, is well worth a visit.

Where to eat and drink

Oakham offers a great choice of places to eat and drink. The town is home to several traditional pubs, such as The Wheatsheaf, known for its cozy atmosphere and classic British fare, and The Lord Nelson, offering a fine selection of local ales and hearty pub meals.

For those seeking high-quality dining, Hitchens Barn is a popular choice, featuring a menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients.

Cafés like Otters Fine Foods provide a charming spot for a leisurely breakfast or lunch, with a tempting array of homemade pastries, sandwiches, and artisan coffees.

Accommodation in Oakham

There’s a number of options in and around Oakham, including a few hotels at Rutland Water.

In the heart of Oakham, The Wisteria Hotel is a popular choice, blending modern amenities with historic charm. Its central location allows easy access to local attractions and eateries.

Closer to Rutland Water, The Barnsdale and Rutland Hall Hotel both occupy a prime position on the North Shore, with great views of the water and surrounding countryside.

Hambleton Hall offers a boutique experience with its opulent decor, Michelin-starred dining, and picturesque gardens overlooking Rutland Water.

How to get from Rutland Water to Oakham

Rutland Water is a large reservoir with several car parks located around its perimeter. Firstly, here are detailed instructions for driving to Oakham from the main car parks at Rutland Water:

1. From Sykes Lane Car Park (North Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head west on Sykes Lane.
2. Turn Left onto A606: At the junction with the A606 (Whitwell Road), turn left.
3. Follow A606: Continue on the A606 for approximately 3.5 miles.
4. Enter Oakham: Follow the signs into Oakham, which will lead you directly into the town centre.

2. From Whitwell Car Park (North Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head west on Bull Brig Lane.
2. Turn Left onto A606: At the junction with the A606 (Whitwell Road), turn left.
3. Follow A606: Continue on the A606 for about 2.8 miles.
4. Enter Oakham: Follow the signs into Oakham, arriving at the town centre.

3. From Barnsdale Car Park (North Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head south on Barnsdale Avenue.
2. Turn Left onto A606: At the junction with the A606 (Oakham Road), turn left.
3. Follow A606: Drive for approximately 2 miles.
4. Enter Oakham: Continue straight into Oakham town centre.

4. From Normanton Car Park (South Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head northwest on Normanton Road.
2. Turn Left onto A606: At the junction with the A606 (Stamford Road), turn left.
3. Follow A606: Continue on the A606 for about 4.5 miles, passing through Empingham and Whitwell.
4. Enter Oakham: Follow the A606 straight into the town center.

5. From Lyndon Road Car Park (South Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head up to the main road
2. Turn Right onto Lyndon Road: At the junction with Lyndon Road (Edith Weston to Manton), turn right.
3. Follow Lyndon Road: Head through Manton, and turn right onto the A6003 towards Oakham.
4. Enter Oakham: Follow signs to Oakham and then the town centre

6. From Egleton Car Park (West Shore)

1. Exit the Car Park: Head on Hambleton Road to the A6003 (Uppingham to Oakham road).
2. Turn Right onto A6003: At the junction with the A6003, turn right.
3. Turn Left into Oakham: At the junction with the Uppingham Road or Stamford Road, turn left.
4. Enter Oakham: Follow signs for the town centre.

General Tips:

• Signage: Follow the road signs to Oakham, which are well-marked from all main routes around Rutland Water.
• Speed Limits: Be mindful of changing speed limits as you pass through small villages and approach Oakham.
• Parking in Oakham: Once in Oakham, follow signs for town center car parks such as Burley Road Car Park, Church Street Car Park, or Westgate Car Park for convenient access to the town’s attractions.

Where to park in Oakham

Parking in Oakham is convenient with several options catering to both short-term and long-term visitors. The town offers a mix of on-street parking and dedicated car parks, ensuring easy access to its attractions, shops, and eateries.

Burley Road Car Park is centrally located, making it ideal for visitors looking to explore the town centre and Oakham Castle. It provides both short-stay and long-stay parking options.

Similarly, Church Street Car Park, close to All Saints’ Church and the Market Place, offers ample spaces and is perfect for those planning to visit the local shops and cafes.

For longer stays, Westgate Car Park is a suitable choice, situated a short walk from the main attractions. Brooke Road Car Park also provides convenient access to the Rutland County Museum and the southern parts of town.

However, all of these car parks have designated disabled parking bays, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Some on-street parking is available around the town, usually with time restrictions, so it’s essential to check signage for specific details.

About Rutland Water

History and Heritage

Rutland Water was completed in 1978, and it covers 3,100 acres. It was originally named Empingham Reservoir after a local village. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam across the Gwash valley, which led to the flooding of the valley and the creation of Rutland Water.

Visitor Centres and Parking

There are two main visitor centres at Rutland Water: the Rutland Water Visitor Centre at Sykes Lane, Empingham, is the main one.

It offers a range of services and facilities, including information about the area, maps, guides, and souvenirs.

Food Options

If you’re feeling peckish during your visit to Rutland Water, there are plenty of options available.

The cafe huts close to the main car parks are a great place to stop for a bite to eat, with a range of snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals on offer.

Things to do at Rutland Water

Rutland Water offers a vibrant hub for watersports enthusiasts, boasting 3,100 acres of freshwater perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.

The expansive reservoir particularly caters to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros, with the sailing club providing lessons and rentals.

For more adventurous visitors, Aqua Park Rutland features an inflatable obstacle course on the lake, offering a fun and challenging experience with slides, balance beams, and over 40 obstacles for all ages.

Cycling and walking are popular activities at Rutland Water, thanks to a 22-mile perimeter track that is mostly flat and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Several shorter trails are also available, suitable for families with young children. Bike rentals are conveniently offered by Rutland Cycling at Whitwell and Normanton.

From May to September, the beach area at Rutland Water is a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Another fantastic way to explore the lake is by taking a boat trip on the Rutland Belle.

These daily trips offer beautiful views of the countryside and landmarks such as Normanton Church, with commentary provided by knowledgeable crew members. The boat is fully accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy this experience.

Fishing at Rutland Water is a top activity, with the lake being home to a variety of fish species including trout, pike, and perch. Fishing enthusiasts can fish from the bank or hire a boat from one of the many rental companies. Guided fishing trips and lessons for beginners are available through Rutland Water Fly Fishing.

Nature

Birdwatching is another highlight, with Rutland Water hosting over 25,000 wildfowl in the winter. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of rare spring migrants, fishing ospreys in the summer, the autumn wader passage, and large flocks of winter wildfowl. The Rutland Osprey Project, a conservation effort running for over 25 years, has successfully bred ospreys, making them a regular sight during the summer months. Osprey hides at Egleton and Lyndon provide excellent views of these birds.

Ongoing conservation efforts at Rutland Water aim to protect and enhance local wildlife and habitats. The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, a leading wildlife conservation charity active for over 65 years, manages the reserve.

Covering 1,000 acres along 9 miles of the western end of Rutland Water, the reserve features over 30 birdwatching hides and nature trails accessible from two visitor centres, with experts on hand to assist with bird identification.

With such a wide range of activities and attractions, Rutland Water is a perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy watersports, nature exploration, or simply relaxing by the lake.

Other places close to Rutland Water

Rutland Water, nestled in the heart of England, is surrounded by picturesque villages and charming towns, each offering its own unique attractions and amenities. Here’s a guide to the places immediately around Rutland Water:

Stamford:

Approximately 10 miles southwest of Rutland Water, Stamford is a historic market town renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and bustling town center. Visitors can explore landmarks such as Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan mansion set in beautiful parkland, or take a leisurely stroll along the River Welland. Stamford offers a variety of pubs and eateries, including The Tobie Norris, a traditional pub serving hearty meals and local ales.

Melton Mowbray:

Situated around 20 miles northwest of Rutland Water, Melton Mowbray is famous for its culinary delights, particularly the traditional Melton Mowbray pork pies and Stilton cheese. Visitors can explore the town’s food heritage at the Melton Carnegie Museum or enjoy a leisurely walk in Play Close Park. Pubs like The Anne of Cleves and The Noels Arms offer a warm welcome and a taste of local hospitality.

Uppingham:

Just 7 miles southeast of Rutland Water, Uppingham is a charming market town with a rich history. Stroll along its quaint streets lined with independent shops, visit Uppingham School, one of the country’s leading independent schools, or explore the historic parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul. Finally, the town boasts several pubs, including The Falcon Hotel, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent dining options.

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