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Rutland Water

Oakham, United Kingdom•4.6(1.4k)•Country Park, Nature Reserve, Playground

Explore 4,200 acres of outdoor activities including watersports, walking, cycling, fishing, mini golf and a beach, plus a nature reserve managed by Rutland Wildlife Trust.

Rutland Water Park offers families an expansive outdoor destination set around a beautiful reservoir and covering 4,200 acres of open countryside. The park caters to all activity levels and interests, from adrenalin-fuelled adventures to peaceful relaxation. Key attractions include excellent watersports facilities, extensive walking and cycling trails with bike hire available, a fishing area, and a fantastic nature reserve managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. The reserve is home to the Rutland Osprey Project, offering visitors the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. For families with children, highlights include a play park, mini golf course, and a designated beach area. The venue provides expert tuition and equipment hire for activities like boat handling and cycling, ensuring both beginners and experienced visitors can make the most of their experience. Multiple food and drink options are available throughout the park, including the Harbour Café at Whitwell, making it easy to spend a full day exploring. The park regularly hosts events and activities, with visitor facilities and comprehensive maps to help navigate the extensive grounds.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 19:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 19:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 19:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 19:00
Friday: 09:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 19:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 19:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Harbour Café at Whitwell

Nestled next to the water with fantastic views across the water. Pop in downstairs during the warmer months for grab-and-go options, or wine and dine upstairs all year round. Enjoy a chilled glass of wine on the balcony in the summer and cosy up next to the fire with bloomer sandwiches or homemade soup during colder months.

Hours: April to August: Daily 10:00-17:00 (8:30am Sundays 18 May-14 Sept); September to October: Daily 10:00-16:00; November to February: Daily 10:00-15:00; March: Daily 10:00-16:00

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Google Reviews

4.6(1.4k reviews)
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Paige Piper

Paige Piper

3 weeks ago

Very scenic, loads of different areas to park. Worth checking which area you want to visit so that you park in correct spot. You can take BBQ, toilets available. A few cafes are different points. Only downside is parking charges do rack up the longer you have been there (£2 an hour)

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Ana Gurl

Ana Gurl

a month ago

Haven't visited Rutland Water for about 40 years. Still a beautiful place but with many, many more facilities. I imagine it might almost be too busy in the summer but it was really lovely for a family walk in the spring while staying nearby. There is plenty of Information available on line and also in the shops (free maps available) about the different walks and cycle routes. There really is plenty of space to accommodate all the different facilities and if you just want to go for a nice walk in a peaceful setting like I did 40 years ago then this is still possible. All in all a great location for a good day out.

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Fereshta Hossini

Fereshta Hossini

2 months ago

A good place to go for a walk, relax, have a BBQ or hang out with friends and family's. Been there a couple times with my family and its so relaxing especially on a hot sunny day. Its peaceful as well which is a good when you just want to relax and rewind. The ocean is cool as well so its nice to have a quick dip or just put your feet in the water just to cool down or relax. Have a small beach where children can go and play in the sand just to have fun.

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Mark Frith

Mark Frith

9 months ago

Been here a few times over the years. Its always been a good place for a walk. On the last visit we had a coffee in the harbour cafe and found the drinks to be good value for money. The only down side is the car park charges which are a bit pricey. We did consider a boat trip but this like the car park was expensive.

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Handy Manny

Handy Manny

a year ago

Jewel of England. Beautiful place, well worth a visit. There is plenty of parking in numerous car parks. Price are currently £2 per hour upto £16. Lots of different things to do, including: Walking/hiking, fishing, boat trips, mini golf. There's also a water park, although when we visited it wasn't open. Maybe worth checking if that's what you are visiting for. There's also barbecue stands for disposable bbq's. Plenty of places for refreshments including cafes. Toilets are free to use(rare in this country these days) and includes toilets for customers with disabilities. I would also say, if you want a bit of piece and quite, don't go at the weekend.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Rutland Water

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Rutland Water

Is Rutland Water free to visit?

Rutland Water is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Rutland Water dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Rutland Water.

Is there parking at Rutland Water?

Yes — Rutland Water has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Rutland Water?

Yes — Harbour Café at Whitwell is on site at Rutland Water. Nestled next to the water with fantastic views across the water.

Is Rutland Water pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Rutland Water is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Rutland Water?

Rutland Water is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Rutland Water by public transport?

Rutland Water isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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