Rutland and Oakham England

Discover Rutland: England’s Smallest County with a Big Story

Nestled in the heart of England’s East Midlands, Rutland may be the smallest historic county in the country, but it offers a wealth of history, natural beauty, and vibrant local life. Known for its motto “Multum in Parvo” — much in little — Rutland truly lives up to its name, offering visitors and residents a rich experience in a compact area.

Major Towns of Rutland

Rutland’s two main market towns are Oakham and Uppingham. Oakham, the county town, is renowned for its charming high street, historic castle, and traditional markets. Oakham Castle, dating back to the 12th century, features an impressive collection of horseshoes donated by visiting royalty — a unique Rutland tradition.

Uppingham is a picturesque town famed for its independent shops, galleries, and the prestigious Uppingham School. Both towns boast a warm, welcoming atmosphere and maintain the feel of classic English market towns, perfect for exploring on foot

A County Steeped in History

Rutland’s recorded history stretches back to Roman times, with evidence of settlements and ancient roads still visible today. The county was officially recognised in the 12th century and has retained its distinct identity despite boundary changes over the years. In the 1970s, Rutland was briefly merged with Leicestershire but regained its status as an independent unitary authority in 1997 — much to the delight of local residents.

Historic sites abound throughout the county, from medieval churches to stately homes and ancient villages with traditional stone cottages. The landscape is dotted with rolling hills, patchwork fields, and timeless rural views.

One of the region’s grandest historic homes https://burleyonthehill.comBurley-on-the-Hill, an imposing 17th-century mansion built on the site of an earlier Tudor house. Today, this magnificent estate is a sought-after location for luxury living in Rutland and offers a rare opportunity to experience country house life in a modern setting.

Schools and Famous Pupils

Rutland is home to some of the finest independent and state schools in the region. Uppingham School, founded in 1584, is one of the UK’s leading public schools and has educated many notable figures, including composer Sir Malcolm Sargent and comedian Stephen Fry.

Oakham School, another prestigious independent school, counts Geoffrey Norman (MP and barrister) among its distinguished alumni. Both schools attract families from across the country seeking excellent education in a beautiful setting.

For younger students, Rutland also offers several highly rated primary and secondary schools, making it an attractive location for families seeking both academic excellence and quality of life.

What Rutland is Best Known For

Rutland is perhaps best known for Rutland Water, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir, created in the 1970s, provides drinking water to the East Midlands but also offers a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy cycling, sailing, fishing, bird watching, and walking along the 23-mile perimeter track.

Rutland Water Nature Reserve is an internationally recognised wildlife sanctuary, home to the Rutland Osprey Project, which has successfully reintroduced these magnificent birds of prey to the region.

Beyond Rutland Water, the county is celebrated for its excellent food and drink scene, with numerous cosy pubs, farm shops, and high-quality restaurants. Local delicacies include Rutland Bitter, a distinctive ale with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status.

Conclusion

Small in size but rich in character, Rutland offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern life. Whether you’re exploring the market towns of Oakham and Uppingham, enjoying water sports on Rutland Water, or walking through unspoilt countryside, you’ll quickly discover why this little county captures the hearts of so many.

If you’re considering relocating or investing in the East Midlands, Rutland’s outstanding schools, thriving communities, and enviable lifestyle make it an appealing choice.