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Now counting as one of Stamford’s recreational amenities, the expanse of Rutland Water reaches from Empingham (4 miles west of Stamford) westwards to within half a mile of Oakham, the historic county town of Rutland. The horseshoe shaped lake is the largest man made lake in Britain and has a surface area` of about 3,100 acres (slightly smaller than Windermere) and a perimeter of 24 miles. A quite delightful place to visit, Rutland Water is served by four large car parks and picnic areas and has facilities for sailing, fishing, walking and bird watching.

The creation of Rutland Water, in the 1970s, was a great engineering project and included the building of what was then the highest clay filled dam in Europe. This dam is three quarters of a mile long, half a mile wide at its base and 114 feet in height. Its eastern side slope is entirely covered in grass to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Water is fed in to the reservoir from the River Gwash and pumped four and a half miles from the River Welland and nine miles from the River Nene through a system of tunnels.

The careful landscaping and tree planting can now be seen to full advantage especially in the four parking and picnic areas, each of which has a different character and outlook onto the lake. That on the south side near Edith Weston, is close to the sailing club and the footpath that runs to the old Normanton church which, jutting out in the water, is a very distinctive feature. Sykes Lane Park near Empingham contains an information centre where details of the lake’s construction can be seen; near Whitwell Village is the Administrative Centre whilst at the lake’s western end is the nature reserve with its islands and shaded areas. Fishing permits (for the day, week or year) can be obtained from the Administrative Office and boats may also be hired. The reservoir was stocked, at the outset, with a quarter of a million brown trout and 360,000 rainbow trout and excellent fishing is one of Rutland Water’s great attractions.

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication and the statements contained herein are believed to be correct, the publishers and promoters cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. Reproduction of any part of this publication in any format, without permission, is strictly forbidden. Editorial courtesy of Mr P.J. Norris. Photographs supplied by Don Lambert Photography, Stamford 01780 757673.