7 Reasons to Move to Rutland: England’s Smallest County
There are several compelling reasons to move to Rutland, here we uncover just 7 for those looking to move home.
Rutland, located in the East Midlands region of England, holds the distinction of being the nation’s smallest county. Despite its modest size, Rutland offers a tranquil setting for residents with its scenic natural beauty and tight-knit community. The county is also well known for its excellent schools.
Home to rolling green hills and picturesque rural villages, Rutland’s idyllic countryside makes it a peaceful place to live. Residents can enjoy the county’s stunning natural landscapes and rural scenery.
Rutland Water, the largest reservoir in the UK, provides many recreational opportunities from active pursuits like cycling and water sports to more relaxed pastimes such as walking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Though it is the smallest county, Rutland is recognised as one of the best places to live in the country. Here are just 7 of the reasons to move to Rutland:
1. Great Schools
Rutland boasts several highly esteemed educational institutions. In close proximity to Rutland, top schools such as Oakham School, Uppingham School, and the Stamford Endowed Schools are longstanding pillars of the community renowned for their academic rigor and leadership development programs.
Catering to a range of ages from early childhood through post-secondary, these independent day and boarding schools combine top-tier instruction with outstanding extracurricular opportunities in sports, arts, and service learning.
2. Fabulous Recreation Facilities
Nature lovers will feel right at home in Rutland, with its abundance of scenic outdoor spaces perfect for an active lifestyle. Chief among Rutland’s natural attractions is Rutland Water – at over 3,000 acres, it is the largest reservoir in the UK, offering a diverse array of recreational activities.
Sailors, windsurfers, and paddleboarders flock to its waters year-round, while cyclists and hikers enjoy over 25 miles of trails circling the lake. Nature lovers also enjoy the annual spectacle of breeding Osprey arriving to raise their young.
Golf aficionados will appreciate Rutland’s two highly rated courses – Rutland Water Golf Course, with its stunning views over the reservoir, and Luffenham Heath Golf Club set in picturesque parkland surroundings.
The Rutland countryside is a walker’s paradise, with rolling green hills and quintessential English villages at every turn. Over 65 miles of trails, like the scenic Rutland Round route, invite exploration on foot amidst the rural tranquility.
Whether you seek fitness, relaxation, or simply to immerse yourself in nature, the county’s outdoor spaces deliver.
With such an abundance of natural beauty and recreational opportunities right on your doorstep, it is no wonder that many choose to make Rutland their home.
An active lifestyle combined with scenic countryside vistas provide ongoing enjoyment for residents and visitors alike making it one of the top reasons to move to Rutland.
3. Shopping in Rutland
In Rutland, you can expect to find a variety of shops catering to diverse needs. From quaint boutiques offering unique gifts and crafts to traditional butchers, bakers, antique shops and local markets, selling fresh produce and homemade goods.
Popular shopping locations include Uppingham and Oakham with nearby Gates Garden Centre in Market Overton and Stamford drawing the crowds.
Additionally, you’ll find convenience stores and supermarkets within easy distance. So, whether you enjoy a quintessential shopping experience or need all-in-one-place efficiency for the weekly shop, there is plenty to suit all preferences.
4. Culinary Excellence
Rutland offers a variety of highly acclaimed culinary experiences to satisfy every palate, from Michelin-starred eateries to cosy public houses that are hundreds of years old.
Hambleton Hall, Rutland
Hambleton Hall is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in a beautiful country house overlooking Rutland Water. The menu features a range of delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the views from the dining room are simply stunning.
If you’re looking for a special night out, Hambleton Hall is definitely worth a visit.
The Olive Branch, Clipsham
The Olive Branch is a charming pub located in the rural Rutland countryside. The menu features a range of classic pub dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and there’s always a great selection of real ales and wines on offer.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, cosy atmosphere and some great food, The Olive Branch is the place to be.
The George and Dragon, Seaton
The George and Dragon is a traditional village pub that’s been serving up great food for over 200 years. The menu features a range of classic pub dishes, as well as some more modern options, and everything is made with locally sourced ingredients.
The pub is located in the heart of the countryside, so you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view.
5. Beautiful Villages
Rutland is renowned for its charming historic market towns and picturesque villages, making it a desirable rural destination for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.
Oakham and Uppingham are lively market towns filled with traditional architecture, independent shops, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for weekend strolls. Beyond the towns, Rutland’s unspoiled villages epitomise rural England, with thatched-roof cottages nestled amid rolling countryside.
Lyddington, Wing, Clipsham, Barrowden, Pickworth, and Ashwell are just some of the idyllic villages and hamlets that buyers should consider.
With limestone buildings, popular pubs and landscapes inviting leisurely walks, these villages showcase Rutland’s enduring pastoral charm.
Their tranquil atmospheres, architectural heritage, and surrounding pastoral splendour have long drawn residents seeking the English rural dream.
6. Accessibility and Location
Ease of Commuting
When considering reasons to move to Rutland, proximity to work, schools, amenities and family is often a crucial factor. Rutland’s location makes commuting a breeze. The A1 runs through the county, providing easy access to major roads and motorways.
The county’s compact size means that commuting times are short, and there is less traffic congestion than in larger cities. Rutland also has a good public transport network, with regular bus services connecting the towns and villages.
Proximity to Major Cities
There is easy access to major cities like Leicester, Nottingham, and Peterborough which are all within an hour’s drive, and direct trains to London from Oakham and Stamford.
East Midlands Airport is approximately an hour’s drive, and Birmingham Airport is around an hour and a half, making it convenient for work or leisure.
7. Property for Sale in Rutland
For those seeking a rural escape, another of the reasons to move to Rutland is the abundance of charming properties. In addition to traditional stone cottages and converted farmhouses, the market offers a range of contemporary homes taking full advantage of their idyllic settings.
The villages of Empingham, Manton, Langham, and Seaton offer a collection of period properties boasting desirable features such as exposed beams, inglenook fireplaces, and charming gardens. Larger estates with acreage are also available throughout Rutland’s rolling countryside.
Among the most prestigious postcode areas are LE15 and LE16, south of Oakham near Rutland Water. Properties in this picturesque region often have direct reservoir views and access to water sports amenities.
Additionally, the villages of Barrowden, Ketton, and Edith Weston within the LE15 zone are set amid unspoiled countryside yet remain conveniently situated near Oakham and Stamford.
For commuters, areas such as Uppingham and the eastern villages along the A6003 road offer easy access to the A1, making northern cities a manageable commute.
Rutland’s balanced combination of rural seclusion and connections to surrounding major hubs creates high demand across its idyllic landscapes and historic villages.
Reasons to Move to Rutland
Rutland is a county that oozes quintessential English charm. From its historic market towns and villages to its cosy country pubs and boutiques, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
With so many good reasons to move to Rutland, you will no doubt want to explore what more this small county has to offer. For expert advice and guidance, please do contact us for a no-obligation discussion.
