Best attractions and places to see around Pickworth, particularly in the Rutland area, include a range of natural and historical sites. The region is characterized by the expansive Rutland Water, a significant man-made lake and nature reserve. Surrounding areas offer ancient woodlands, historic towns, and architectural landmarks. These features provide diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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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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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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Convenient refreshment stop on the main route through the village.
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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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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 ha and is part of the Rutland Water SSSI. The wood formerly lay within a Medieval deer park.
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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 seems as if the lower half has sunk completely, as though the church is too heavy for the ground beneath it.
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The region around Pickworth, particularly in Rutland, is dominated by Rutland Water, England's largest man-made lake by surface area. This expansive area offers opportunities for recreation and wildlife spotting. You can also explore Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, an ancient woodland that provides a change of scenery with its diverse flora.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities around Pickworth. You can find various routes, including easy and moderate options. For example, an easy hike is the 'Scenic Country Road β Fort Henry Lake in Exton Park loop from Exton' (7 km). More challenging options include 'The Olive Branch β Quarry Bridleway loop from Pickworth' (7.9 km, moderate). You can explore more hiking trails on the Hiking around Pickworth guide or the Easy hikes around Pickworth guide.
Absolutely. The area around Pickworth is popular for cycling, especially around Rutland Water. There are various road cycling routes available, such as the 'Castle Bytham Road β Quiet Country Lane loop from Little Bytham Road' (44.7 km, easy) or the 'Woolsthorpe Manor β Twin Lakes and Humpback Bridge loop from Little Bytham' (41.3 km, moderate). Find more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Pickworth guide.
Near Pickworth, you can visit several historical sites. The iconic Normanton Church, saved from demolition, appears to float on Rutland Water. The Stamford Historic Town Centre is renowned for its Georgian architecture and over 600 listed buildings. Additionally, Grimsthorpe Castle, a prominent historic house with extensive parkland, is located nearby and open during the summer months.
Yes, in Pickworth, Lincolnshire, you can find St Andrew's Church, a Grade I listed building from the 12th century, famous for its well-preserved 14th-century wall paintings. Other historic structures include Pickworth Mill, an early 19th-century tower mill, and Old Hall Farm House, built in 1608.
Many attractions around Pickworth are family-friendly. Rutland Water offers ample space for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Normanton Church and Stamford Historic Town Centre are also suitable for families, offering historical exploration and charming environments. Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland provides a natural setting for family walks.
Yes, Normanton Church is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy this iconic Rutland landmark. Additionally, the Woodland Path in Grantham (near Pickworth, Lincolnshire) offers accessible and well-maintained walks.
For refreshments, the Bythams Community Shop & Cafe is a welcoming spot for cyclists, offering coffee, cake, and breakfast rolls. Near Pickworth, Lincolnshire, Bashford's Milk Shed is a self-serve farm shop providing fresh milk and eggs. Around Rutland Water, the Rutland Nurseries Cafe and the Horse & Jockey pub in Manton are good options.
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Grimsthorpe Castle is typically open during the summer months. For nature enthusiasts, Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland is particularly beautiful when the bluebells are in bloom, usually in spring. The general outdoor activities around Rutland Water are enjoyable throughout the warmer months.
Normanton Church is an iconic and unusual Rutland landmark. It was saved from demolition in the 1970s when Rutland Water was created. When the lake is full, the church appears to float on the water, creating a unique and picturesque scene, making it a must-see around Rutland Water.
Stamford Historic Town Centre offers a unique blend of history, shopping, and stunning Georgian architecture. Proclaimed as 'the finest stone town in England,' it boasts over 600 listed buildings, including five medieval churches. Visitors can enjoy a bustling high street with coffee shops, restaurants, and a range of retailers, all set against a backdrop of old timber-framed and limestone buildings along the River Welland.
Rutland Water is a hotspot for recreation and relaxation, offering various water sports. These include activities like those at Aqua Park Rutland, as well as opportunities for fishing. The lake is also a significant wildfowl sanctuary, making it excellent for wildlife spotting.


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