Best attractions and places to see around Empingham, a village in Rutland, England, combine historical landmarks with natural features. Situated near Rutland Water, the area offers opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic spots. The landscape includes rolling countryside, open farmland, and small woodlands, with paths tracing the River Gwash valley.
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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Empingham is bordered by Rutland Water, Europe's largest man-made reservoir, offering a hub for walking, cycling, and water sports. You can also visit the Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, an ancient woodland that provides a tranquil escape, or explore Empingham Marshy Meadows and Empingham Old Wood, both rich in diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, the area boasts several historical landmarks. The iconic Normanton Church appears to 'float' on Rutland Water and is a must-see. Within Empingham village, St Peter's Church features an impressive 14th-century tower. Additionally, the imposing Welland Viaduct, the longest masonry viaduct across a valley in the UK, is a significant man-made structure nearby.
The area around Empingham and Rutland Water is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive walking and cycling trails, including routes around Rutland Water. For specific routes, explore the hiking guides or MTB trail guides for Empingham, which include options like the Rutland Water Circuit and various loops around the reservoir.
Many attractions around Empingham are suitable for families. Rutland Water offers a wide range of activities, including walking, cycling, and visiting the Rutland Water Beach. Both Welland Viaduct and Normanton Church are considered family-friendly viewpoints. The Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland also provides a lovely natural setting for family walks.
For easy walks, the trails around Rutland Water are ideal. You can find several easy routes, such as the Rutland Water Dam β Rutland Water South Shore loop from Empingham or the Rutland Water β Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland loop from Whitwell. More options are available in the easy hikes guide for Empingham.
Rutland Water Beach, located at the end of Sykes Lane, is England's first inland bathing water location to receive both the Blue Flag and Seaside Award. It's a very popular destination during warmer months, offering a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Yes, if you're exploring the area, the Bythams Community Shop & Cafe is a welcoming spot for cyclists and visitors. It offers great coffee, cakes, and breakfast rolls. You can also find refreshments at the Rutland Nurseries Cafe between Manton and the Lynton reserve, or at the Horse & Jockey pub in Manton.
The Rutland Water Nature Reserve is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and an excellent location for wildlife observation. It's part of the larger Rutland Water ecosystem, supporting diverse bird species, water voles, and woodland wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique beauty of Normanton Church, often described as the most beautiful attraction in the area and a perfect photo opportunity. The extensive opportunities for hiking, cycling, and watersports at Rutland Water are also highly valued, along with the scenic views of the Welland Viaduct.
Normanton Church is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering a viewpoint that can be enjoyed by a wider range of visitors. Many of the paths around Rutland Water are also well-maintained, providing accessible options for walks and cycles.
Yes, cycling is a very popular activity around Empingham, especially around Rutland Water. The area offers numerous trails, including the full Rutland Water Circuit. You can find detailed routes and guides for mountain biking and general cycling in the MTB Trails around Empingham guide.


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