Visitor Guide 2013 | Page 14

rutland Boasting an internationally famous nature reserve. An idyllic rural destination offering a perfect escape. England’s smallest county is a hidden gem in the East Midlands. Rutland has two market towns and lots of pretty villages to explore. It is a wonderful place for walking. There are miles of tranquil footpaths to discover, passing through tiny, picturesque villages and glorious countryside with uninterrupted views. The Rutland Round is a well known and popular long distance walking route in Rutland, covering a 65 mile circular route. Rutland is packed with historic buildings, many of which have been beautifully preserved. There are a number of very attractive churches in the county, each with interesting features and fascinating histories. One of the most exhilarating ways to explore Rutland is by bike, and there are routes to suit everyone. Rutland Water offers: the leisure cyclist some of the best views of both the reservoir and the Hambleton Peninsular from its waterside tracks which circle the shoreline. One of the best known and loved landmarks of Rutland is Normanton Church Museum. It was saved from flooding when the reservoir was created and now serves as a museum, housing interesting fossils and telling the history of the area and of those villages which were lost beneath the waves in the 1970’s. Where to visit in RUTLAND Rutland 8 Yachts c/o Rutland Sailing Club, Gibbert Lane Edith Weston, LE15 8HT Enjoy sailing experiences on a skippered yacht on Europe’s largest man-made lake. Sailing experience not required and all kit is provided. Based on the South Shore at Edith Weston. Contact Rutland 8 Yachts. Tel: 07890 421282 www.rutland8yachts.co.uk Rutland Cycling and the Rock Bloc Whitwell Leisure Park, Whitwell, Oakham, LE15 8BL there are miles of tranquil footpaths to discover, passing through tiny, picturesque villages and glorious countryside with uninterrupted views. 14 www.southwestlincs.com Rutland’s premier adventure centre. A range of activities including cycle hire along 23 miles of traffic free waterside track, a high ropes course and an 8m high climbing and abseil tower. Our enthusiastic activities team will provide you with a full safety briefing. Perfect for all ages and abilities – a great day out for everyone. Tel: 01780 460705 Email: [email protected] www.rutlandcycling.com Rutland Fly Fishing Adventures The Lodge Barnsdale, North Shore, Rutland Water, LE15 8AB Learn to fly fish on Europe’s largest trout lake. Friendly, qualified coaching for Individuals, families, groups, corporate events. No experience needed, day and half day adventures learn all the skills needed to enjoy this exciting, active and competitive activity. Fly fishing from your own motorboat along 26 miles shoreline on the world famous trout lake Rutland Water. For the more experienced flyfishers, we offer expert guiding services on this world famous lake. The British Bird Watching Fair Rutland Water Nature Reserve Friday 16th - Sunday 18th August 2013. Tel: 01572 771079 www.birdfair.org.uk Rutland Water This internationally famous nature reserve is managed in partnership with Anglian Water and the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust and provides one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in Great Britain. www.rutlandwater.org.uk www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk Tel: 01572 722422/07711 182853 Email: [email protected] Barnsdale Gardens Barnsdale Nr. Exton, Rutland, LE15 8AH Made famous by Geoff Hamilton and BBC TV’s Gardener’s World, Barnsdale is Britain’s largest collection of individually designed gardens. Whether you are looking for gardening inspiration or simply a wonderful day out with a great lunch in our Tea Room. Tel: 01572 813200 www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk rutland is packed with historic buildings, many of which have been beautifully preserved. 15