Attractions and Places To See around Whitwell - Top 20

The most prominent natural feature is Rutland Water, the largest man-made lake in England by surface area. It spans over 3,000 acres of rolling countryside, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and watersports. You can also explore Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, an ancient woodland that provides a change of scenery from the open views across the lake.

Yes, a significant historical landmark is Normanton Church. This iconic and unusual Rutland landmark was saved from demolition in the 1970s when Rutland Water was created. It now appears to float on the lake when water levels are high. Another notable man-made structure is the Rutland Water Dam, a key part of the reservoir's construction, standing 35 meters high and 1200 meters long.

Whitwell and the surrounding Rutland Water area are excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and various watersports on Rutland Water. The Rutland Water Cycle Route is particularly popular for exploring the area by bike. For more specific routes, you can find numerous hiking trails, road cycling routes, and gravel biking routes.

Absolutely. The entire Rutland Water area is considered family-friendly, offering space for children to run, cycle, and enjoy nature. Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland is also a great spot for families to explore. The Rutland Water Cycle Route provides an accessible way for families to experience the scenery together.

The area is well-known for its cycling opportunities, especially the Rutland Water Cycle Route, which circles the lake. You can find various road cycling routes, including loops from Empingham and Whitwell, ranging from moderate to difficult. There are also several gravel biking routes, such as the Rutland Water Cycle Path loop from Edith Weston.

Many spots around Rutland Water offer picturesque views. Normanton Church is a particularly iconic viewpoint, especially when the lake is full, making the church appear to float. The Rutland Water Dam also offers expansive views across the reservoir.

Yes, there are several easy walking trails, particularly around Rutland Water. For instance, you can find easy loops like the Rutland Water Dam – Rutland Water South Shore loop from Empingham (7.8 km) or the Rutland Water – Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland loop from Whitwell (5.9 km). You can explore more options on the hiking guide for Whitwell.

Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and the wide range of recreational opportunities around Rutland Water. Many enjoy the extensive network of trails for hiking and cycling, with the Rutland Water Cycle Route being a particular favorite. The iconic Normanton Church is also a beloved spot for its unique history and photographic opportunities.

The Rutland Water Cycle Route is generally popular and accessible, though some sections can be a little steep. It's suitable for most cyclists, but it can get busy on weekends, so fitting a bell to your bike is recommended to alert pedestrians. The gravel track sections are manageable for road bikes but easier on gravel or mountain bikes.

Parking is available at various points around Rutland Water. For example, Barnsdale parking is often a more economical option compared to other car parks around the lake. It's advisable to check specific car park details and fees for your chosen starting point.

Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland offers a pleasant change of scenery from the open views of Rutland Water. This ancient woodland, part of the Rutland Water SSSI, is a great place to explore regardless of the weather. It's a good spot for wildlife spotting and enjoying a more secluded natural environment.