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It’s the perfect time to discover Rutland – let the clean air fill your lungs and focus on relaxing with those you love, you can ease into a slower pace and really savour every experience with mouth-watering meals and Rutland’s unbeatable hospitality.
After a brisk walk in the crisp cool air, you’ll really appreciate the log fires being stoked in Rutland’s cosy pubs. In the woods and forests dotted around the county, you can witness the trees’ stunning transformation, home to rich abundance of wildlife.
Wildlife lovers will have plenty to keep them occupied, it’s the busiest time for the wetlands at Rutland Water Nature Reserve with wading birds aplenty. If you’re a keen (or indeed a complete amateur) photographer, make sure to bring a camera. There are also guided badger watches, bat walks and other activities at the reserve.
Barnsdale Gardens has been designed to offer inspiration all year round, with 38 individual gardens on an 8 acre site to offer you practical concepts that you can use at home, as well as botanically labelled plants; ideal for making notes of the ones you really like before visiting our nursery
With an enviable choice when it comes to places to eat and drink, foodies will find Rutland a real treat. The pubs and eateries offer an especially appealing welcome at this time of year, with crackling log fires, the smell of delicious meals being prepared in award-winning kitchens and the warm glow that seems to draw you inside like a magnet. If the aroma of crusty home-baked pies isn’t enough to tempt you into ordering something, just one look at the ‘specials’ menu is sure to break your resolve. Rutland offers the very finest in locally sourced food and drink, with a range of options to suit all pockets. Come and find out for yourself why we’re known as ‘The County of Good Taste’.
If you want to get a head start on gift shopping or just enjoy a really good browse, head to the historic market towns of Oakham and Uppingham (both famous for their public schools). They are an absolute delight for shoppers, offering a range of excellent independent shops, boutiques and antique treasure troves where you can find that perfect something. It’s more important than ever to support smaller, home-grown businesses. Come and browse the wealth of independent retailers and markets in Rutland.
After you’ve perused the shops, pop into Oakham Castle and discover the history hanging from the walls. If you like beautiful old buildings, don’t miss the magnificent Burghley House and Belvoir Castle, which have open days throughout the year.
Special winter events are enjoyed at various locations – local favourites include the victorian Christmas at Rockingham Castle and snowdrop season at Deene Park.
