Stretton Lakes Certificated Location

Rutland Water is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Europe and is set in 3,100 acres of countryside. The reservoir offers something for everyone in an exciting yet peaceful environment. It has a 25-mile circular track for walking and you can hire a cycle or bring your own.

Rutland Water has an international reputation for sailing, trout fishing and bird watching and all these activities are open to day visitors. The site includes the Anglian Water Bird Watching Centre with its fascinating exhibition and internationally famous nature reserve with 20 bird hides. It is the site of the first breeding ospreys in England for 150 years and is also the home of the British Bird Watching Fair each August. The osprey can be seen flying most days between April and September.

Activities for all water sports include the hire of dinghies, windsurfers, canoes, kayaks, row boats, and power boating. Watersports are available to suit all abilities. For those less energetic simply find a bench and relax while watching the activities on the shimmering water. Or take a cruise on the Rutland Belle.

Stamford is renowned for its historical architecture. Declared a conservation area in 1967 and is proclaimed as 'the finest stone town in England',

Specialist shops include china, wholefoods, confectionery, quality boutiques, interior design, art galleries, antiques, bookshops, crafts and giftware together with major high-street retailers and a wide choice of cafes, restaurants, inns and tearooms.

Stamford is famous for Burghley House - the largest and grandest house of the Elizabethan age - and the Burghley horse trails which is the premier equestrian and social event in the international sporting calendar.