Attractions and Places To See around Barrow - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Barrow offer a diverse range of experiences, primarily centered around the Rutland Water area. This region is characterized by its expansive man-made lake, historical landmarks, and natural woodlands. Visitors can explore a variety of notable landmarks, viewpoints, and natural features, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities. The landscape provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation.
Best attractions and places to see around Barrow
- The most popular attractions is Normanton Church,…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Normanton Church
Highlight • Monument
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Wymondham Windmill, Tea Rooms & Windmill Wheels Bike Shop
Highlight • Cafe
Plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. Also, many places to leave your bike in sight from the cafe.
Staff is always pleasant friendly …
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Normanton Church
Highlight • Historical Site
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Rutland Water
Highlight • Structure
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Rutland Water Cycle Path
Highlight • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
Make sure to take the additional peninsular part of the ride though beautiful Hambleton and past Hambleton Hall where we stayed. It has an excellent Michelin Star restaurant open to non residents
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Fantastic 2 -3 hour ride with great views. We went on simple rented electric bikes, not full EMTB, and tbat was great and there are some hilly parts away from the water.
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Great area for a hike. If you do not want to go the full circle alternatives to walking back on the same track are a bit limited.
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Cafe provides excellent food at reasonable prices. Plenty of outside seats and bike racks. Only 1 toilet so expect to que. Well worth a stop on your ride.
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Keep your eye open for Rutland Sailing Club Open Day and get free sailing and trips out as well as a lovely traffic free ride.
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The church was built in classical style for the Normanton Hall estate on the site of a 14th-century building. Except for the tower, the medieval church was rebuilt in 1764 by Sir Gilbert Heathcote, 3rd Baronet. The church was de-consecrated in 1970, and was to have been demolished as part of the reservoir construction, as its floor was below the proposed water level. Following a public outcry, the lower half was filled with stone and rubble, and a concrete cap constructed just below the level of the windows.
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Also the location for Windmill Wheels (Road) Bike Shop
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Great food, excellet place to stop off at on your bike ride
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Barrow?
The primary natural feature is Rutland Water, a large man-made lake offering extensive opportunities for recreation and wildlife spotting. You can also explore the ancient woodlands of Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, which provides a change of scenery from the open views across the lake.
Are there historical sites to visit near Barrow?
Yes, the area boasts several historical points of interest. Normanton Church is an iconic Rutland landmark, famously saved from demolition and now appearing to float on the lake. Another historical site is Wymondham Windmill, which also houses a cafe and bike shop.
What outdoor activities are popular around Barrow?
The region around Barrow, particularly the Rutland Water area, is a hotspot for outdoor activities. Visitors enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and watersports. The extensive network of trails around Rutland Water makes it ideal for exploring on foot or by bike.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Barrow area?
Many attractions around Barrow are family-friendly. Rutland Water offers ample space for families to enjoy walking, cycling, and watersports. Normanton Church and Wymondham Windmill also welcome families, with the latter featuring a cafe for refreshments.
Where can I find a good place to eat or refuel during my visit?
For refreshments, Wymondham Windmill, Tea Rooms & Windmill Wheels Bike Shop is a popular stop, offering a cafe with pleasant staff and good value. Another option is the Bythams Community Shop & Cafe, which is community-run and welcoming to cyclists, offering coffee, cake, and breakfast rolls.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Barrow?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences, from the iconic beauty of Normanton Church to the recreational opportunities at Rutland Water. The friendly atmosphere and good food at places like Wymondham Windmill are also frequently highlighted.
Can I go cycling around Barrow's attractions?
Yes, cycling is a very popular activity. The Rutland Water area offers extensive cycling routes, including the full circuit around the lake. You can find various MTB and road cycling routes around Barrow, with options for different difficulty levels. Explore more cycling routes on our MTB Trails around Barrow and Road Cycling Routes around Barrow guides.
Are there options for running trails near Barrow?
Absolutely. The area around Barrow provides several running trails, particularly around the Rutland Water region. You can find moderate to difficult running loops, such as the Fort Henry Lake – Osprey Wood loop. For more details, check out our Running Trails around Barrow guide.
Is Rutland Water suitable for watersports?
Yes, Rutland Water is a major hub for watersports. Its large surface area makes it ideal for activities like sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding, alongside fishing.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Several attractions around Barrow are noted for their accessibility. Normanton Church and Wymondham Windmill are both indicated as wheelchair accessible, offering opportunities for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy these sites.
What is the best time of year to visit the attractions around Barrow?
The attractions around Barrow, especially Rutland Water and Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like cycling and watersports, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. The area's natural beauty can be appreciated in all seasons.
Are there any ancient woodlands to explore?
Yes, Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland is an ancient woodland that offers a different scenic experience from the open lake views. It's part of the Rutland Water SSSI and is a great spot for a walk, whatever the weather.
Most popular attractions around Barrow
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