During our UK staycation, last week, myself and 3 of my friends took a trip to Rutland Water for the day.
Rutland Water is a large, horseshoe-shaped reservoir set within three thousand acres of beautiful English countryside on the borders of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. It offers over 25 miles of track for cycling and walking around the reservoir.
We couldn't have picked a better day to visit. It is clearly where all the locals gather on weekends because it was super busy! We were very lucky with the weather, it was the most perfect September day, only jumpers required, no coats, but a gentle breeze to keep us cool on our 13-mile bike ride!! Yes, you read that right!
If biking isn't your go-to sport I wouldn't worry, as there is something for everyone! Sailing, fishing, bird watching, boating and walking, or simply just people watching. In hindsight kind of wish we did that (people watch), because that bike seat really didn't do anyone any favours and not to mention my seat was broken, so every time I sat on my bike my seat dropped to the lowest setting and it felt like I was riding a BMX. A week on and I still have horrible flashbacks.
We started our day at Normanton and then followed the guided route anti-clockwise, stopping off at Empingham, Whitwell and Barnsdale. The entire cycle route is approximately 17 miles, however, we quickly lost track of time and were trying to beat the clock to get our bikes back in time, so we ended up going back on ourselves. Maybe next time we will complete the full route as we now know what we're in for and will dress and prepare appropriately. (My friends were told in the toilets they looked too glam for a bike ride).
There are WC's every 2 miles or so and these are all COVID safe. There is also plenty of bike shops as well on route if you do have any problems. When you collect your bikes at the beginning a member of staff will hand you a map and number to call if you do need help which is very useful.
For lunch, we ended up calling in at the Harbour cafe which was exactly what we needed. They offer sandwiches, cakes, coffee, and ice cream and also provide for vegetarians and allergens. My friend is coeliac and she was able to get a gluten-free meal with no trouble. The cafe is situated in front of the water and they offer some outdoor seating but most groups were sat on the grass in front watching the world go by.
By the time we had finished, we were out for around 4.5 hours and it was so much fun!
The bike hire cost is set, so I would, of course, recommend hiring the bikes sooner rather than later to make the most out of your money.
Each bike cost £23 to hire and these did come with helmets as well. I believe you can also pre-book the bikes beforehand to ensure you have one, which again, I would recommend also. He told us we got the last 4 bikes, and I believe that with some gears not working on my friend's bikes and my seat not staying up, we undoubtedly got the last pick.
Definitely not complaining though, it made for some funny stories afterwards...however not so much during.
Thanks for reading!
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