The Village of Lyndon with Rutland Water in the background

Rutland Water is now firmly established as a major water sports and leisure center, covering over 3000 acres, with a 25-mile circular track for walking and cycling.

The Reservoir includes the Anglian Water Bird Watching Centre (Rutland Water Nature Reserve Website) with its fascinating exhibition and internationally famous nature reserve with 20 bird hides. It is the site of the first breeding ospreys in England for 150 years (Anglian Water Osprey Project Website) and is also the home of the British Bird Watching Fair each August.

The Tourist Information Centre at Sykes Lane offers a video presentation, a shop, and can organise guided visits around the reservoir. Next to the Tourist Information Centre is the Butterfly and Aquatic Centre, which features a Twilight Zone and a Drought Garden at the Barnsdale site, which was designed by the late Geoff Hamilton.

The Church Museum at Normanton is a stunning building, which contains the history of Rutland Water and archaeological finds. A pleasure cruiser sails on the reservoir, windsurfing, canoeing, sailing, and other water sports are also available.

Rutland Water is world famous for its trout fishing with a fleet of 65 powered boats for hire and courses throughout the season. Pike fishing available in October. The range of healthy activities also include the Rockblok outdoor climbing tower which is great fun for youngsters.

Rutland Sailing Club was established in 1976 and has an International reputation as one of the finest areas of water for inland sailing. The beauty of Rutland can be seen at its best from a boat! Conditions are similar to estuary sailing, but without the tides - over 3000 acres of sheltered water. The Club has three permanent racing courses laid out on the water, and can set a full Olympic course which allows racing to take place in practically any conditions, while still leaving plenty of room for leisure sailing. (Rutland Sailing Club Website)

For more information call the numbers below :

Rutland Water Tourist Information Centre 01572 653026
Butterfly and Aquatic Centre 01780 460515
Cycle Hire 01780 460705
Watersports and School 01780 460154
Rutland Sailing Club 01780 720292
Rutland Water Nature Reserve 01572 770651
Fly fishing, fishing boat hire and tackle shop 01780 686441
Rockblock, climbing wall 01780 460154