Rutland, England’s smallest county situated in the East Midlands, is rural, unspoiled and charming.
The area is renowned for its beautiful Georgian stone-built market towns and villages. In fact, nearby Stamford was proclaimed by Sir Walter Scott as “The finest stone town in England”.
The cottage itself occupies a charming central position by the magnificent ancient church of St Johns and offers a base to relax and unwind in its lovely secluded garden, complete with climbing roses, apple trees and a working well ( fully enclosed and secure).
Ryhall is a quaint village with two pubs The Green Dragon and The Millstone, both serving real ale and good home-made food. It also has a village shop with post office and a fine butcher’s all a short stroll away.
St John’s Cottage is a beautifully furnished 300 year old detached character stone cottage under collyweston slate roof. The cottage itself occupies a charming central position by the church within the village of Ryhall, and offers base to relax and unwind in its lovely secluded grounds.
Ryhall marks the start of many stunning country walks, with visitors having easy access to a variety of outdoor activities and events including horse riding, rock climbing, cycling, sailing, windsurfing, fishing, golf and bird watching. Rutland water, Western Europe’s largest man-made lake, plays host to many of these (just 20 minutes away).
Looking out from St Johns Retreat and towards the village square, the rive Gwash runs through and provides a delightful walk by the river. Here you can see the ducks and swans as well as other animal such as sheep and horses and even donkeys.
Within walking distance of St John’s Cottage is Tolethorpe, the unique open-air theatre with its annual 13-week summer season of Shakespeare plays. Burghley House, a glorious Elisabethan mansion, plays host to the famous Burghley Horse trials held in September.
Ryhall is also well placed for the lovely old town of Stamford (just 2 miles away) renowned for its historical religious and architectural heritage.
There are other delightful market towns to visit such as Oakham, Uppingham and Oundle, as well as many fascinating unspoilt villages.
Highly recommended for junior guests is Sacrewell Farm Park (3 miles). Hidden deep in the heart of the countryside and spread over 35 acres, this former 18th Century mill has a host of friendly farm animals to pet and feed, a Shire Horse Centre, working watermill and fun tractor rides, plus toddler-friendly indoor and outdoor play areas.
For parents, Michelin Pub of the Year (2008), The Olive Branch, is in nearby Clipsham (advanced booking recommended) and excellent for a posh lunch en famille or a special evening out with the help of babysitter. Don't miss the homemade lemonade and barbecues in the summer!
A personal favourate pubof mine is the Castle Inn at Castle Bytham. The owner charlotte does the best home made food ever and the pub has the most charming ambience especially in winter! Castle inn at Castle Bytham
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