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Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vast wetland haven with lagoons and islands, famous for breeding ospreys and over 30 birdwatching hides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Ospreys return and lambs are born

CrowdLow
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Rutland Water Nature Reserve - Image 1

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve

Best Time

Spring mornings

Ospreys return and lambs are born

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast wetland haven with lagoons and islands, famous for breeding ospreys and over 30 birdwatching hides.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Rutland Water never fails to impress—it's always a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy nature/ scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

Binoculars are a must! 🔭

Don't forget your binoculars! They can be hired on-site if you forget yours, making birdwatching much more rewarding.

Comfortable shoes are key 👟

With miles of walking and cycling paths, wear comfortable footwear for exploring the vast reserve.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Osprey Spotting

Osprey Spotting

Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Witness majestic ospreys in flight over the water, a truly unforgettable sight for nature enthusiasts.

Birdwatching Hides

Birdwatching Hides

Various locations around the reserve

Discover over 30 strategically placed hides offering intimate views of diverse bird species.

Scenic Walks and Cycles

Scenic Walks and Cycles

Circumference of Rutland Water

Enjoy a 25-mile circular route or shorter trails with breathtaking views of the water and surrounding countryside.

The Rutland Dinosaur Fossil

The Rutland Dinosaur Fossil

Rutland Water Nature Reserve

See the fossilized remains of a 10m-long ichthyosaur, the largest of its kind found in the UK.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wildlife Wonders

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve is a haven for birdlife, especially ospreys. Plan your visit around nesting seasons for the best viewing opportunities. Binoculars are a must, and thankfully, they can be hired on-site if you forget yours!

Explore the Expansive Landscape

This vast wetland offers miles of walking and cycling paths. Whether you're up for a full 25-mile circuit of Rutland Water or a shorter, scenic hike, comfortable footwear is essential. Enjoy the stunning views and numerous benches for relaxing.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Ospreys return and lambs are born
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather for walks and cycling
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best browse I’ve ever had x #Rutland #RutlandWater #RutlandNurseries #Homedecor #uppingham
@rooscottage
6.9K likes • 358.4K views

Binoculars are a must! 🔭

Don't forget your binoculars! They can be hired on-site if you forget yours, making birdwatching much more rewarding. Reddit

Comfortable shoes are key 👟

With miles of walking and cycling paths, wear comfortable footwear for exploring the vast reserve. Reddit

Rutland Water is just 45 mins from Leicester and is the most beautiful place to visit anytime of the year. The sound of the waves was just lovely to hear 🩵 . . . . . . . #rutland #rutlandwater #aboutleicester #leicesterblog #leicesterblogger #daytripsfromleicester #leicestershire #leicestershiredaytrips #thingstodoinleicester
@aboutleicester
4.8K likes • 121.3K views
BBC NEWS report on the RUTLAND DINOSAUR. The fossilised remains of a 10m-long sea predator called an ichthyosaur were found at Rutland Water Nature Reserve, England, during landscaping work. It is the largest of its type ever discovered in the UK. #BBCNews #Dinosaurs #Ichthyosaur #SeaDragon #RutlandWater #RutlandMemories #Rutland #Oakham #VHS #Camcorder #35mmslides #8mm #Upscaled #Digitising #...
@rutlandmemories
3.1K likes • 112K views

Check Osprey schedules 🦅

For the best chance to see ospreys, plan your visit during their nesting season and check local viewing times. Reddit

Cycle the full circuit 🚴‍♀️

For the adventurous, the 25-mile cycle path around Rutland Water offers stunning, ever-changing scenery. Reddit

reddit.com

Doing this drive (leaving from Norwich) soon, what’s a nice thing to do mid route to break up the drive? Any nice sights to see or places to visit?

Tips

from all over the internet

Binoculars are a must! 🔭

Don't forget your binoculars! They can be hired on-site if you forget yours, making birdwatching much more rewarding. Reddit

Comfortable shoes are key 👟

With miles of walking and cycling paths, wear comfortable footwear for exploring the vast reserve. Reddit

Check Osprey schedules 🦅

For the best chance to see ospreys, plan your visit during their nesting season and check local viewing times. Reddit

Cycle the full circuit 🚴‍♀️

For the adventurous, the 25-mile cycle path around Rutland Water offers stunning, ever-changing scenery. Reddit

Pack a picnic 🧺

Enjoy the beautiful scenery with a packed lunch. There are plenty of benches and scenic spots to relax. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and excellent facilities for walking and birdwatching. The chance to see ospreys and the unique 'Rutland Dinosaur' fossil are major highlights. Some visitors note that the reserve is vast and can be overwhelming to explore in a single day, suggesting return visits are beneficial.

"My partner and I visited today for a walk, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The weather was beautiful, and the scenery was absolutely stunning. Rutland Water never fails to impress—it's always a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy nature/ scenery.

It was nice to see a lot of sheep and lambs."

Victoria Addison

"This vast expanse of water offers a variety of opportunities to take long or short walks. Or cycling on its well maintained paths, if you feel adventurous, a full circle of the reserve is only 25 miles.
I settled for a 5 to 6 mile hike in superb sunshine.
I also got sight of the Osprey in flight over the water.
You can visit the Osprey reserve at nearby Lyndle for a fee.
The views across Rutland are stunning and there are numerous benches available to just relax and soak it all in.
We even caught a wedding in the lakeside church."

Steve Ralph

"This is a fantastic place, too much to explore in 1 day so will have to return. We went to the bird watching centre and there are so many walks and hides it's amazing. The thing I wanted to know that I couldn't find anywhere prior to visiting was if binoculars could be hired as i had forgot mine and thankfully they do hire them out so that made my day. Staff were super helpful and friendly. Definitely worth a visit for nature lovers and twitchers experienced or not."

karen h

What People Like

Stunning scenery
Abundant birdlife
Osprey sightings

What People Dislike

Vastness can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve is part of the larger Rutland Water area. You can reach it by car, with several parking areas available around Rutland Water. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. TikTok

Yes, there are multiple car parks around Rutland Water, providing access to different parts of the reserve. Some may have a small fee. Reddit

Absolutely! Rutland Water has a well-maintained 25-mile cycle path that circles the reservoir, offering access to the nature reserve. Reddit

Public transport options are limited. While buses may serve nearby towns like Oakham or Uppingham, you'll likely need to walk or cycle from the nearest stops to the reserve itself. TikTok

The reserve is well-signposted with walking and cycling trails. Maps are usually available at visitor centers or online. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general Rutland Water area and most of the nature reserve is free. However, there might be a fee for specific facilities like the Osprey viewing centre at Lyndon. Reddit

The nature reserve is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities like visitor centers may have set opening times. Reddit

Yes, binoculars can be hired at the birdwatching centre, which is very helpful if you forget yours. Reddit

While not always advertised, keep an eye out for special events or guided walks, especially during peak birdwatching seasons. Reddit

The discovery of the Rutland Dinosaur was part of the nature reserve. While general access is free, specific exhibitions or visitor centers might have associated costs. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The reserve is famous for its breeding ospreys, but you'll also find a wide variety of waterfowl, waders, and other bird species in its lagoons and islands. Sheep and lambs are also common sights. Reddit

Yes, there are many well-maintained paths suitable for families, including shorter, flatter routes. The scenery with sheep and lambs is often a hit with children. Reddit

You'll find birdwatching hides, walking and cycling paths, benches for resting, and often a visitor center with information and facilities. Reddit

Dogs are generally welcome but must be kept on a lead, especially during bird nesting seasons, to protect wildlife. Check specific signage. Reddit

Absolutely! The stunning landscapes, diverse birdlife, and opportunities to photograph wildlife make it a photographer's paradise. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are often cafes or refreshment points at visitor centers around Rutland Water. However, packing a picnic is a popular and scenic option. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! There are numerous benches and scenic spots perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature. Reddit

Nearby towns like Oakham and Uppingham offer a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants if you're looking for more substantial dining options. TikTok

Cafes at visitor centers usually offer a selection of snacks and light meals. For specific dietary needs, it's best to check with the venue or pack your own food. Reddit

Yes, you can typically purchase drinks and snacks at the main visitor centers or cafes located around Rutland Water. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Anywhere with a view of the water, the bird hides, and the surrounding landscapes offers great photographic opportunities. Dawn and dusk can provide beautiful light. TikTok

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds and other wildlife. A tripod can also be useful for stability, especially in hides. Reddit

Keep an eye on the official Rutland Water Nature Reserve website for any scheduled photography events or workshops. Reddit

Yes, the fossil is a significant discovery and can be viewed. Photography is generally permitted, but always check for any specific signage. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape and wildlife photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve is a fantastic family outing. The wide, well-maintained paths are perfect for little legs and pushchairs, and the chance to see sheep and lambs is always a hit. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, and keep an eye out for the ospreys – spotting them can be an exciting adventure for children. Binoculars, even child-sized ones, can enhance their viewing experience. Reddit

Consider visiting the visitor center for interactive displays or information about family-friendly trails. The sheer open space allows kids to burn off energy while being immersed in nature. The 'Rutland Dinosaur' fossil also adds a touch of prehistoric wonder that can capture young imaginations. TikTok

🐦 Birdwatchers & Nature Enthusiasts

For dedicated birdwatchers, Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve is a must-visit. With over 31 birdwatching hides, you're guaranteed excellent vantage points to observe a vast array of species, including the iconic ospreys. Reddit Hiring binoculars is highly recommended if you haven't brought your own, as they are essential for spotting distant birds. The reserve is particularly active during migration seasons and breeding periods. Reddit

Beyond the ospreys, expect to see various waterfowl, waders, and potentially rarer species depending on the time of year. The diverse wetland habitats create a rich environment for avian life. Don't miss the chance to learn from the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who are often on hand to share insights about the local bird population. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Cyclists

The extensive network of paths around Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve and Rutland Water caters perfectly to walkers and cyclists. The 25-mile circular route around Rutland Water is a popular challenge, offering continuous scenic views. Reddit For a more relaxed experience, numerous shorter trails wind through the nature reserve, leading to different bird hides and viewpoints. Comfortable walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for enjoying the extensive trails. Reddit

Remember to bring water and snacks, as while there are cafes, they might be spaced out. The well-maintained surfaces make it accessible for most fitness levels, and the abundance of benches provides ample opportunities for rest and enjoyment of the landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Ospreys of Rutland

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve, as part of Rutland Water, is renowned for its successful osprey reintroduction program. These magnificent birds of prey, once extinct in the UK, now grace the skies here during their breeding season. Witnessing an osprey in flight, perhaps diving for fish, is a highlight for many visitors. The best time to spot them is typically from spring through late summer. Dedicated viewing areas and knowledgeable staff at the Osprey viewing centre at nearby Lyndon can enhance your experience. Remember to bring binoculars or a spotting scope for the best views, as they can be quite distant. Reddit

The return of the ospreys is a testament to conservation efforts and a significant draw for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. The presence of these birds transforms the reserve into a dynamic ecosystem, offering a chance to observe natural behaviors like hunting and nesting. It’s a truly inspiring sight that underscores the importance of protecting these vital habitats. TikTok

Exploring the Vast Rutland Water

Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve is nestled within the expansive Rutland Water, a large man-made reservoir offering a wealth of outdoor activities. The 25-mile perimeter path is a popular route for both cyclists and walkers, providing diverse perspectives of the water and surrounding countryside. Whether you opt for a leisurely stroll or a challenging cycle, the well-maintained paths ensure an enjoyable experience. Numerous benches are strategically placed along the routes, inviting visitors to pause, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery. Reddit

Beyond the main circuit, the reserve itself offers a network of smaller trails and birdwatching hides. These allow for more intimate encounters with the diverse birdlife that inhabits the lagoons and islands. The landscape is varied, from open water views to more sheltered woodland areas, making each part of the reserve unique. The opportunity to see sheep and lambs grazing adds to the pastoral charm of the area. Reddit

The sheer scale of Rutland Water means you can easily spend a full day exploring, or even return multiple times to discover new areas and wildlife. The well-kept paths and accessible hides make it a fantastic destination for all ages and fitness levels. TikTok

The 'Rutland Dinosaur' Discovery

A remarkable discovery at Rutland Water Nature Reserve has added a prehistoric dimension to this natural haven: the fossilized remains of a massive ichthyosaur. Dubbed the 'Rutland Dinosaur,' this sea predator measured an astonishing 10 meters long, making it the largest of its kind ever found in the UK. The fossil was unearthed during landscaping work, highlighting that even familiar landscapes can hold ancient secrets. TikTok

This significant find underscores the rich geological history of the region and adds an educational element to a visit. While the fossil itself is a major attraction, its discovery also serves as a reminder of the dynamic natural processes that have shaped our planet over millennia. It's a fascinating piece of natural history that complements the living wildlife of the reserve. TikTok

The presence of such an ancient marvel alongside thriving modern wildlife creates a unique juxtaposition, offering visitors a journey through time. It’s a compelling reason to visit, combining natural beauty with scientific wonder. TikTok

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