With the local woodlands displaying an array of reds, oranges, yellows and greens, and crispy brown leaves to crunch underfoot, it’s the ideal time to explore all that our little county has to offer. So, why not book yourself into a cosy B&B, a self-catering cottage or lodge, or treat yourself to a stay in one of our lovely independent hotels? We can promise you a warm welcome and the opportunity to discover a little-known rural county with a huge amount of character.
Make the most of the bright, dry autumn days with a choice of outdoor activities. You could spend the day on a country walk enjoying the gently rolling hills with views of sheep peacefully grazing, taking hedge-lined footpaths and bridleways to emerge in pretty village lanes lined with limestone cottages. Golfers may like to pack their clubs and book themselves in for a round or two on one of our top-notch golf courses. While those into fishing will find a number of options to put their skills to the test on Rutland Water.
If a spot of retail therapy is on the cards, our market towns of Oakham and Uppingham with their independent shops offer a refreshing change from the ‘copycat’ high streets all around the country. Oakham has its own unique boutiques, jewellers, interiors stores, and delicatessens. Don’t miss the unique Oakham Castle, just off the market place. Pop inside and you’ll see the biggest collection of ornamental horse shoes in the UK, each one with a story to tell. Head up the road to Rutland County Museum to get a further taste of the history of the county.
Uppingham’s town centre is also packed with a selection of independent stores, including ladies and gents’ clothing, a specialist art gallery and shop, together with some excellent antique stores, all well worth a browse. After all, Christmas is just a couple of months away and it’s never too early to shop for pressies!
And when the shopping, walking and exploring has been done, head into one of our fine hostelries, be it on the high street or in one of our lovely villages for a drink and have a bite to eat. There’s something to suit every taste… which leads us onto the subject of Rutland Food and Drink Week in October!
Good taste and good choice
Rutland is known as the County of Good Taste and for very good reason. Inspectors and reviewers consistently honour our establishments with awards and heap praise on the quality of food on local menus. In addition to the highly-rated restaurants and gastro pubs, Rutland has its own award-winning ales brewed at Oakham’s Grainstore, along with fine gins made by Multum Gin Parvo, and artisan bread and baked goods produced from local ingredients by the multi-award-winning Hambleton Bakery.
During Rutland Food Week, starting on Monday October 25, visitors and local residents alike are being encouraged to eat their way around the county, enjoying special set menus at various eateries. A range of businesses will be hosting events including product sampling, a beer festival, and pumpkin picking.
The Oakham Foodie Trail is ideal to explore on foot. But if you’re into cycling, why not ride our Rutland food trail, a 25-mile route linking various producers with options to stop en route to enjoy pubs and cafés where locally produced food is served. Bring your own bikes or hire locally – Rutland Cycling have some excellent e-bikes! For details of the trails and to download the map of the cycle route, head to www.discover-rutland.co.uk/listing/rutland-food-drink-trail/
To obtain up-to-date information on the Rutland Food and Drink Week promotions, events and special menus, sign up to the Discover Rutland newsletter from the link on our home page.
