Holiday rentals in Rutland Water
Find and book unique accommodation on Airbnb
Top-rated holiday rentals in Rutland Water
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.
Holiday rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Rutland Water holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in Rutland Water
Apartment in Gretton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 294 reviewsSt James’s Cottage - Gretton
Guest suite in Rutland
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviewsSelf-contained Studio annexe in Oakham.
Cottage in Rutland
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviewsDaphne's cottage
Shepherd’s hut in Ryhall
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 275 reviewsA Magical Hobbit House In Rutland
Cottage in Stamford
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviewsPea Cottage - A beautiful countryside retreat
Guest house in Braunston
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviewsSelf-catering country cottage bedsit
Apartment in Manton
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviewsLovely studio annexe in a Rutland Water village
Home in Rutland
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviewsThe Walled Garden HolidayCottage
Your guide to Rutland Water
All About Rutland Water
Midway between the East Midlands cities of Leicester and Peterborough, Rutland Water was dammed in the 1970s to create England’s largest artificial reservoir. The water, fed by the River Nene and River Welland, has become a popular recreational area and a haven for birdwatchers.
The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, at the western edge of Rutland Water, is the access point for an array of trails, where you’ll find several hides to spot species such as cormorants, nightingales, kingfishers, kestrels, and ospreys. The reservoir offers excellent swimming and boating opportunities. One curious site you don’t want to miss: Perched on a long spit of land that extends into the water, the ornate remains of Normanton Church look like they’re floating. On summer days, you may spy wedding processions making their way to this unique venue for a ceremony.
And the reservoir itself isn’t the only draw — Rutland Water is surrounded by golden ironstone villages, ancient churches, stately homes, charming pubs, sweeping farmland, and the market towns of Uppingham and Oakham.
The best time to stay in a holiday rental in Rutland Water
The summer months are the most popular time to visit, as long days and pleasant temperatures create ideal conditions for windsurfing and canoeing on the reservoir. Autumn is also a great time to stay in a cottage in Rutland, with crisp days and largely dry weather. If you’re visiting in October, look out for the annual Rutland Walking, Cycling, and Outdoor Festival, which features a packed programme of guided walks and rides around the area. Winter can be dark and cold, but this is when the festive atmosphere kicks up a notch. Spring brings snowdrops, daffodils, and milder temperatures, although it’s also wise to be prepared for occasional showers.
Top things to do in Rutland Water
Oakham Castle
Built in the late 12th century, this Norman castle is one of the oldest stone halls in England. Inside, you’ll find centuries-old sculptures and 240 wall-mounted ceremonial horseshoes, which were gifted by royalty and peers — the oldest dates back to Edward IV’s visit in 1470. The castle has been a seat of justice in England since 1229 and is still used as a Crown Court.
Normanton Church
Rutland Water’s most famous destination, Normanton Church was built in the 18th century and saved from destruction when initial plans to flood the reservoir included taking down the church. The church now appears to float when the reservoir is full, making it a favourite with photographers. Although you can certainly wander around its exterior, the interior is only open to the public on specified days.
Yew Tree Avenue
This quirky and charming avenue, lined with more than 150 topiary trees, is only 15 kilometers north of Rutland Water. Once the carriage driveway to Clipsham Hall, the yews along the avenue were first carved into shapes in 1870, and soon became a tradition. Some of the more unusual shapes: a man on the moon, animals, and even the queen. The trust-run avenue is free to visit; on sunny days, bring a picnic.
Destinations to explore
- Nottingham Holiday rentals
- Cambridge Holiday rentals
- Birmingham Holiday rentals
- Oxford Holiday rentals
- Cotswold District Holiday rentals
- Central London Holiday rentals
- London Holiday rentals
- City of London Holiday rentals
- Leeds Holiday rentals
- Manchester Holiday rentals
- York Holiday rentals
- Liverpool Holiday rentals
- Yurt Rentals United States
- Yurt Rentals United Kingdom
- Castle Rentals United States
- Houseboats United States
- Holiday Caravans United Kingdom
- Private Island Rentals United States
- Farm Houses United States
- Farm Cottages United Kingdom
- Cabin Rentals Australia
- Luxury Cabins United Kingdom
- Luxury Cabins United States
- Holiday Chalets United Kingdom
- Cottage Rentals United States
- Holiday Cottages United Kingdom
- Mansion Rentals United States
- Villa Rentals United Kingdom
- Holiday Bungalows United Kingdom
- Bungalow Rentals United States
- Condo Rentals United States
- Holiday Apartments Australia
- Holiday Houses United States
- Holiday Houses United Kingdom
- Private Holiday Rentals United Kingdom
- Big House Rentals United States
- Big Cottages Australia
- Large Villas United Kingdom
- House Rentals with a Pool United States
- Cabin Rentals with a Pool United States
- Villas with a Pool United Kingdom
- Apartments with a Hot Tub United States
- Holiday Cottages with a Hot Tub United Kingdom
- Beach Cabins United States
- Beach Condos United States
- Beachfront Rentals United States
- Beach Houses United Kingdom
- Beach Villas United Kingdom
- Coastal Cottages United Kingdom
- Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Beach Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals United States
- Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Luxury Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom