Top 6 Lakes around Uppingham

Rutland Water is one of Europe's largest man-made lakes, offering a vast array of activities. It's renowned for watersports like sailing and paddleboarding, a 25-mile traffic-free perimeter track for cycling and walking, and the internationally recognized Rutland Water Nature Reserve for birdwatching. You can also find the Rutland Aqua Park and a sandy beach for relaxation.

Eyebrook Reservoir provides a more tranquil, nature-focused experience. It's a significant biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a renowned spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded. It's also popular for fly fishing and holds historical importance as a practice site for the Dambusters during WWII.

Yes, Rutland Water features a popular 25-mile (40 km) traffic-free perimeter track, ideal for cycling. This route, known as the Rutland Water Cycle Route, is suitable for all ages and abilities. You can find various cycling routes in the area, including those detailed in the MTB Trails around Uppingham and Gravel biking around Uppingham guides.

While direct public access to the reservoir itself is somewhat limited, a public footpath along its eastern side offers excellent viewpoints and walking routes. The surrounding area provides scenic shoreline walks amidst lush countryside, perfect for those seeking a peaceful experience. For specific routes, consider the 'Stoke Dry Wood – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Uppingham' or the 'Uppingham Market Town – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Uppingham' found in the Hiking around Uppingham guide.

Absolutely. Both Rutland Water and Eyebrook Reservoir are excellent for birdwatching. Rutland Water Nature Reserve is an internationally recognized wildfowl sanctuary, home to over 25,000 waterfowl and the Rutland Osprey Project. Eyebrook Reservoir is a renowned spot with over 200 species recorded, including ospreys and various wintering wildfowl.

Rutland Water is very family-friendly. You can enjoy cycling or walking on the traffic-free path, visit the Rutland Aqua Park for inflatables, relax at the sandy beach, or take a trip on the Rutland Belle pleasure cruise. Mini golf is also available, and the Rutland Water Cycle Path is safe for children.

Yes, Normanton Church at Rutland Water is an iconic and unusual Rutland landmark. It appears to float when the lake is full, making it a notable photo opportunity. Eyebrook Reservoir also holds historical significance as a practice site for the Dambusters during WWII.

The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports, cycling, and enjoying the beach at Rutland Water. Autumn brings beautiful foliage for walks, while winter is excellent for birdwatching at both Rutland Water and Eyebrook Reservoir, particularly for spotting wintering wildfowl.

The perimeter track around Rutland Water is largely traffic-free and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs. Normanton Church is also noted as wheelchair accessible. For specific accessibility details, it's always best to check with the individual sites.

Parking is available at various points around Rutland Water, though prices can vary. For example, Barnsdale parking is typically less expensive than other car parks. For Eyebrook Reservoir, parking is generally available near public footpath access points, but it's advisable to check local signage.

Yes, if you prefer a quieter experience, Eyebrook Reservoir generally offers a more peaceful atmosphere compared to Rutland Water, especially on its public footpaths. The surrounding lanes and trails away from the main visitor centers can also provide a more secluded walk. Consider routes like 'Stoke Dry Wood – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Uppingham' for a less busy option.

Beyond walking and cycling, the area around Uppingham's lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities. At Rutland Water, you can enjoy watersports like sailing, paddleboarding, and open water swimming. Both lakes are excellent for birdwatching, and Eyebrook Reservoir is a popular spot for fly fishing. You can also explore various MTB Trails and Gravel biking routes in the wider Uppingham area.