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Rutland

Martinsthorpe

Attractions and Places To See around Martinsthorpe - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Martinsthorpe offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences. This region features 20 notable locations, including significant man-made structures and expansive natural landscapes. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking and cycling across varied terrains. The area is characterized by its blend of historical landmarks and recreational water bodies.

Best attractions and places to see around Martinsthorpe

  • The most popular attractions is Welland Viaduct, an other man-made structure that is the longestโ€ฆ

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Welland Viaduct

Highlight โ€ข Structure

The viaduct is 1,275 yards (1166m) long and has 82 arches, each with a 40 feet span. It is the longest masonry viaduct across a valley in the United Kingdom

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Normanton Church

Highlight โ€ข Monument

An iconic and unusual Rutland landmark. Saved from demolition in the 1970's following public protest, the church now seems to float when the lake is full, at other times it โ€ฆ

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Rutland 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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Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland

Highlight โ€ข Forest

Barnsdale Woods offers a little change of scenery from the open views across much of the route around Rutland Water. The ancient woodland (now partly replanted with conifers) covers 28 โ€ฆ

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Harringworth Viaduct

Highlight โ€ข Monument

NOT SUITABLE FOR DOG WALKING! Tried this route today, and gave up at Thorpe Country Club. From Gretton to Thorpe there's no clear pathways. After crossing over the railway tracks โ€ฆ

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Popular around Martinsthorpe

Road Cycling Routes around Martinsthorpe

Cycling around Martinsthorpe

MTB Trails around Martinsthorpe

Hiking around Martinsthorpe

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Bumble-Bee
November 29, 2025, Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland

Nice and easy hike on the man path, while some of the smaller ones canbe a bit owegrown an soggy. ood change of scenery to make a walk here more varied.

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Bumble-Bee
November 11, 2025, Rutland Water

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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Must see viaduct just amazing

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Very impressive viaduct. You arrive there when you pass into Rutland area.

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Compact gravel in the drier days and mud in the wet ones.

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This ancient woodland was partly destroyed through construction of the reservoir. It is a neglected coppice of the Peterken Ash-Maple, Ash-Hazel, Pedunculate Oak-Hazel and Invasive Elm types but has been partly planted with conifers.

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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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Darren
May 23, 2024, Welland Viaduct

Shes a beaut of a stop off, lovely downhill under neath this into Harringworth

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there family-friendly attractions around Martinsthorpe?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Rutland Water offers opportunities for cycling, walking, and watersports, and is a great spot for wildlife. The impressive Welland Viaduct can be viewed from nearby trails, and Normanton Church provides a unique photo opportunity by the lake. The Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland is also a lovely spot for a family walk, especially in spring.

Where can I find easy walking trails near Martinsthorpe?

For easy walks, consider exploring the trails around Rutland Water. While the full circuit can be long, there are shorter, accessible sections. You can find several easy hiking routes in the area, such as the 'St Martin's Church, Lyndon โ€“ Lyndon Village loop from Rutland' or the 'Rutland Nursery Cafรฉ โ€“ The Horse and Jockey Pub loop from Rutland'. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Martinsthorpe guide.

What historical sites can I visit in the Martinsthorpe area?

The region is rich in historical sites. The Welland Viaduct is a significant historical engineering marvel, being the longest masonry viaduct across a valley in the UK. Normanton Church is another iconic historical landmark, famously saved from demolition during the creation of Rutland Water and now appearing to float on the lake.

Are there any natural woodlands or forests to explore?

Yes, the Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland is an ancient woodland covering 28 hectares and is part of the Rutland Water SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). It offers a change of scenery from the open views around Rutland Water and is particularly beautiful when the bluebells are in bloom.

What outdoor activities are popular around Martinsthorpe?

The area around Martinsthorpe is excellent for outdoor activities. Rutland Water is a hub for hiking, cycling, fishing, and watersports. The Rutland Water Cycle Route is very popular for cycling. You can find various hiking routes in the Hiking around Martinsthorpe guide and mountain biking trails in the MTB Trails around Martinsthorpe guide.

Is Martinsthorpe suitable for cycling?

Absolutely. The Rutland Water Cycle Route is a major draw for cyclists, offering a popular circuit around the lake. While it can get busy on weekends, it provides a great way to experience the area. There are also various MTB trails available, which you can explore in the MTB Trails around Martinsthorpe guide.

Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Normanton Church is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering a chance to enjoy this iconic landmark by Rutland Water. Many paths around Rutland Water are also generally flat and suitable for wheelchairs, though it's always good to check specific trail conditions.

What is the best time of year to visit Martinsthorpe attractions?

The attractions around Martinsthorpe can be enjoyed year-round. Spring is ideal for seeing the bluebells in Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. Summer offers excellent conditions for watersports and cycling at Rutland Water. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even in winter, the landscapes offer a serene beauty, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Martinsthorpe?

Visitors frequently praise the diverse range of experiences. Many appreciate the engineering marvel of the Welland Viaduct and the unique, picturesque setting of Normanton Church. The recreational opportunities at Rutland Water, from cycling to wildlife spotting, are also highly valued by the komoot community.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?

While not entirely hidden, the Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland offers a tranquil escape and a different natural experience compared to the more open areas around Rutland Water. It's a beautiful spot for those looking to explore ancient woodlands and enjoy nature away from the busiest paths.

What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see?

The Martinsthorpe area is characterized by a blend of large man-made lakes and natural woodlands. You'll encounter the expansive waters of Rutland Water, which is the largest man-made lake in England by surface area, and the ancient trees of Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. The landscape also features rolling countryside and river valleys, providing diverse scenery for exploration.

Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?

Yes, there are options for refreshments. For example, near Rutland Water, the Rutland Nurseries Cafe (between Manton and the Lynton reserve) and The Horse & Jockey pub in Manton are popular choices for visitors. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.

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