Why visit Rutland Water?
Waterside wandering
Settle down next to one of Europe’s biggest man-made lakes while camping at Rutland Water, a reservoir fed by the rivers Nene and Welland. Less than five decades ago this East Midlands region was mere fields, but now it’s a 34-metre-deep lake edging a 1,000-acre nature reserve. Head here for a holiday full of frolics on four miles’ worth of walking paths or to hit up one of 100 family-friendly events organised annually.
Brilliant birdwatching
This wildlife-rich reservoir, with its labyrinth of lagoons and wetlands on the southern and northern stretches, is home to 200 bird species. Look out for ospreys – which were reintroduced to the area in 1996 – or spot the more than 25,000 ducks, geese and swans skimming the water’s surface. You can stop off at one of 30 hides to see these creatures in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
Aquatic activities
Into watersports? Fan of fishing? Like basking on beaches? You can tick off all three of these pursuits at Rutland Water. Go windsurfing, boating and paddleboarding at one of the activity camps or wangle an angling permit at a local tackle shop. More into sunning yourself on the sand? Navigate to the North Shore when camping in Rutland Water for a 140-metre-long beach fringed by a 2,800-metre-square paddling and swimming area.
Top things to do in Rutland Water
We’ve just covered the top experiences and attractions at Rutland Water, but there’s more to get stuck into as well:
* Hire a bike (or bring one with you) and cycle the reservoir's 23-mile perimeter
* Bounce around on the floating inflatable obstacle course at Aqua Park Rutland
* Snap an Instagram-perfect pic of Normanton Church on a leisure cruise from Whitwell
* Follow in the footsteps of Victorian author Charles Dickens at Rockingham Castle
* Pick your way past pretty plants in the 37 cultivated areas of Barnsdale Gardens
Unexplored Rutland Water
Animal antics
After roving around the reservoir in search of wildlife, meet and greet the birds of prey at the Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre. You can also eye up ospreys at the Lyndon Visitor Centre and brave the creepy-crawlies at Bugtopia the Zoo. The latter establishment houses more than 75 invertebrate and reptile species as part of its interactive exhibits.
Marvellous market towns
Camping in Rutland Water? It’s not just nature-based activities to be had around here. Uppingham hosts independent shops on High Street and Market Place, as well as hidden among the old alleyways. The town’s known for its antiques, fine art and books – so you might just come away with a bit of treasure. Oakham, meanwhile, has boutiques, galleries and jewellers to browse, along with a heritage trail kicking off at the Rutland County Museum and passing Oakham Castle.
Under-the-radar attractions
Get a glimpse of the impressive Welland Viaduct and its 82 arches or bound among the bluebells at Wakerley Woods while camping near Rutland Water. It’s also worth exploring the Easton Labyrinth and Peace Garden, a space within the All Saints churchyard with a sculpture crafted by East Midlands local Michael Moralee. A touch further afield are Central England sightseeing spots like Nottingham, Sherwood Forest and Cambridge (all just over an hour’s drive).
Here’s how
Now you’ve decided to embark on East Midlands' beach and birdwatching days, it’s time to turn your attention to choosing your accommodation. We’ve got campsites in Rutland Water with all sorts of facilities, whether you want electric pitches or a spot with plenty of room for your awning. And with all the walking trails dotted around the lush landscape, you might want to bring the pup and stay at a dog-friendly campsite in Rutland Water too.
Here are some other fab filters to browse:
* Adults-only camping in Rutland Water
* Campsites in Rutland Water with fires allowed
* Fully serviced pitches in Rutland Water
If you’re not up for wild camping in Rutland Water, make sure your park has toilets. Rather not dig the tent out of the shed? Check out our Rutland Water caravan sites and glamping options. We’ve got bell tents, camping pods and more to bed down in.
Keen to learn about all things camping and glamping ahead of your trip? Browse our guides for tips on everything from stress-free family holidays to dark-sky stays.
