The best walks and hikes around Edith Weston

Yes, the area around Rutland Water is very family-friendly. The terrain is mostly flat, with many accessible paths. For a pleasant and easy walk, consider the Oak Tree by Rutland Water – View of Rutland Water loop from Whitwell. It's a relatively short route that offers beautiful water views without being too strenuous for younger children.

Dogs are welcome on the trails around Rutland Water, but they should be kept on a lead, especially near wildlife and livestock. The open countryside and shoreline paths provide excellent walking opportunities for you and your canine companion. Always be mindful of the Rutland Water Nature Reserve areas where restrictions may be tighter to protect nesting birds.

Many trails offer views of the famous semi-submerged Normanton Church. A great option that starts from Edith Weston is the Normanton Church – Rutland Water Dam loop. This moderate walk takes you right along the shore for excellent photo opportunities of the historic landmark.

The area is perfect for circular hikes. You can find routes of various lengths that start and end in or near the village. For a challenging day-long trek, the Rutland Water Dam – Rutland Water loop from Edith Weston is a fantastic option that covers a significant portion of the reservoir's southern shore.

There are several car parks situated around Rutland Water, providing convenient access to the trail network. Key parking areas include those near Normanton Church, Whitwell, and the Anglian Water visitor centres. It's best to arrive early on weekends and holidays as they can get busy. Some smaller, informal spots may be available in villages, but be sure to park considerately.

Yes, the area is accessible by public transport. The nearest major town with a train station is Oakham. From there, local bus services run to the villages around Rutland Water, including Edith Weston. This allows you to start your hike without a car, though you should check bus timetables in advance as services can be infrequent, especially on weekends.

Rutland Water is a designated Nature Reserve and a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. While walking, you can spot a huge variety of waterfowl. The area is most famous for the Rutland Osprey Project, and you might be lucky enough to see these magnificent birds of prey hunting over the water between April and September. The Lyndon Visitor Centre is a great resource for learning more about them.

Absolutely. The Hambleton Peninsula juts into the middle of Rutland Water and offers some of the best panoramic views. The View of Rutland Water – St Andrew's Church, Hambleton loop from Upper Hambleton is an excellent choice. This easy walk provides stunning vistas across the water from a different perspective than the southern shore.

The full circular route around Rutland Water is approximately 23 miles (37 km). For a fit and experienced hiker, this can be completed in a single day, typically taking around 9-10 hours of continuous walking. Many people choose to break the walk into shorter sections to complete over several visits.

Yes, you'll find several pubs and cafes in the villages dotted around Rutland Water, such as Edith Weston, Empingham, and Hambleton. These make for perfect refreshment stops during a long walk. Some of the main visitor centres, like the one at Whitwell, also have cafes with views over the water.

The trails are very highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of visitors sharing their experiences. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful and expansive views across the water, and the abundance of wildlife. The flat terrain makes it accessible, while the sheer scale of Rutland Water provides a true sense of escape.

There is an extensive network of trails to explore. On komoot, you can discover over 300 routes in the area, ranging from short, easy strolls along the shoreline to challenging long-distance treks that circumnavigate the entire reservoir. This variety ensures there's a walk for every fitness level and interest.