Rutland - Best Places to Live UK

Reasons to live in Rutland UK

Natural Beauty: Despite being the smallest county in the UK, Rutland is known for its stunning natural landscapes. The county is home to Rutland Water (see image above), one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, offering opportunities for water sports, birdwatching, and leisure activities. The surrounding countryside is picturesque, with rolling hills, charming villages, and scenic walking trails, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Peaceful and Tranquil Environment: Rutland is renowned for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. The county is predominantly rural, with a slower pace of life compared to larger urban areas. This creates a sense of tranquility and a close-knit community, providing a welcoming and friendly environment for residents.
Quality of Life: Rutland consistently ranks highly in quality of life surveys. The county boasts low crime rates, good air quality, and access to essential amenities. It offers a balanced lifestyle, combining the advantages of a rural setting with proximity to larger towns and cities for employment, shopping, and entertainment.
Historic Charm: Rutland has a rich history and is dotted with historic market towns and picturesque villages. The county’s architecture reflects its heritage, with notable landmarks such as Oakham Castle and Uppingham School. The traditional stone-built houses, village greens, and historic churches add to the charm and character of the area.
Strong Community Spirit: Rutland has a strong sense of community spirit. The county hosts various local events, festivals, and markets that bring residents together. There are active community groups, clubs, and organisations that offer opportunities for socialising, volunteering, and getting involved in local initiatives.
Education and Healthcare: Rutland has a good selection of primary and secondary schools, including the Rutland County College for higher education. The county also benefits from access to quality healthcare facilities and services, ensuring the well-being of its residents.
Accessible Location: Despite its rural setting, Rutland is conveniently located and well-connected. It is situated in the heart of England, with good transport links to major road networks and nearby cities like Leicester, Nottingham, and Peterborough. This makes commuting and travel to other destinations relatively easy.

Best places to live in Rutland UK

Oakham: As the county town of Rutland, Oakham is a charming market town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It offers a range of amenities, including independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as excellent schools.
Uppingham: Known for its prestigious public school, Uppingham is a picturesque town with a lively market square and a range of independent shops. It offers a friendly community, beautiful architecture, and access to the surrounding Rutland countryside.
Stamford: While technically part of Lincolnshire, Stamford is located near the Rutland border and is a highly sought-after place to live. It boasts stunning Georgian architecture, a bustling town centre, and a range of amenities. Stamford offers a vibrant community and easy access to Rutland’s attractions.
Edith Weston: Situated on the southern shores of Rutland Water, Edith Weston is a peaceful village surrounded by beautiful countryside. It offers a tranquil setting, water sports opportunities, and easy access to the Rutland Water Nature Reserve.
Ketton: Located in the southwest corner of Rutland, Ketton is a village known for its limestone quarry and picturesque setting. It offers a friendly community, a range of amenities, and easy access to the Rutland countryside.
Cottesmore: Nestled in the heart of Rutland, Cottesmore is a traditional English village with a close-knit community. It offers a peaceful and rural atmosphere, with easy access to surrounding countryside and Rutland Water.
Wing: Positioned in the east of Rutland, Wing is a village with a rural charm and a strong community spirit. It offers a range of amenities, including a village shop and pub, and is close to Rutland Water and the market town of Uppingham.
Empingham: Situated on the northern shores of Rutland Water, Empingham is a village known for its picturesque views and outdoor recreational opportunities. It offers a tranquil environment, water sports activities, and access to Rutland’s natural beauty.
Barrowden: Located in the northeast of Rutland, Barrowden is a quintessential English village with stone cottages, a village green, and a friendly community. It offers a peaceful setting, scenic walks, and easy access to Rutland’s countryside.
Whissendine: Positioned in the northwest of Rutland, Whissendine is a rural village known for its thatched cottages and beautiful countryside. It offers a quiet and idyllic setting, with easy access to nearby towns and Rutland’s attractions.

Best schools in Rutland UK (not official rankings)

Oakham School, Oakham
Uppingham School, Uppingham
Catmose College, Oakham
Brooke Hill Academy, Oakham
English Martyrs’ Catholic Primary School, Oakham
Leighfield Primary School, Uppingham
St. Nicholas CofE Primary School, Cottesmore
Langham CofE Primary School, Oakham
Ketton CofE Primary School, Stamford
Whissendine CofE Primary School, Oakham