Normanton Church
Iconic church on Rutland Water, saved from submersion, now a picturesque venue for weddings and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Normanton Church
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic church on Rutland Water, saved from submersion, now a picturesque venue for weddings and events.
"A peaceful gem by the water, this church's setting feels almost like a painting."
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning sunset photos of the church .
🚶♀️ Lakeside Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful dog walk or cycle along Rutland Water to the church .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Church on the Water
Rutland Water
A picturesque church jutting into Rutland Water, offering surreal views and a unique photographic opportunity.
Golden Hour Ambiance
Overlooking Rutland Water
Experience the church bathed in the warm glow of sunset, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
Wedding Venue Charm
Interior and Exterior
A breathtaking backdrop for weddings, with a beautifully maintained interior and stunning lakeside setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
+1Access and Events
+1 Check the schedule before your visit to ensure access and to potentially enjoy a special event.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning sunset photos of the church.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful dog walk or cycle along Rutland Water to the church.
🚤 Boat Trip Option
Take a boat trip on Rutland Water for unique views of the church from the water.
💍 Wedding Venue
A popular and beautiful venue for weddings, offering a picturesque backdrop.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning sunset photos of the church.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful dog walk or cycle along Rutland Water to the church.
🚤 Boat Trip Option
Take a boat trip on Rutland Water for unique views of the church from the water.
💍 Wedding Venue
A popular and beautiful venue for weddings, offering a picturesque backdrop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Normanton Church for its picturesque beauty and unique setting on Rutland Water. Many highlight its charm as a wedding venue and the serene atmosphere it offers for walks and photography, especially during sunset. Some note the lack of swimming or BBQ facilities directly at the church.
"A fantastic looking church that juts out onto the reservoir.
You can walk all the way around it.
Its also available to hold functions.
Very picturesque."
R J
"After spending several noisy hours in the Sykes Lane beach at Rutland waters, we decided to venture across the water to the Normanton Church area of Rutland Waters.
What a difference!! Quiet, peaceful and fantastic views. There were great open spaces overlooking the reservoir and plenty of picnic benches to enjoy a lunch alfresco.
The area around the church is not amenable to bbqs and there is nowhere to swim or dip the toes unfortunately.
The parking is ample and during peak season, they offer a boat trip @ £12 for an adult and half that for the kids.
A nice break from the busy beach on Sykes lane."
Grant Stanley
"Beautiful place for a dog walk,even on a foggy day. I like the fact that all dogs are on leads, which is a plus if you have a nervous dog like us."
Rachel Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Normanton Church is located on the shores of Rutland Water. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. You can also cycle or walk to the church along the Rutland Water paths.
Yes, Normanton Church is approximately 24 miles from Leicester, making it a feasible day trip destination.
Absolutely! You can walk all the way around the church and enjoy the surrounding views of Rutland Water.
Rutland Water is the largest man-made lake in the UK by surface area, completed in 1978. It offers various water sports and scenic walking routes.
The area around the church is not suitable for BBQs, and there are no designated swimming spots directly at the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Normanton Church is open to the public on selected dates. It's advisable to check their schedule in advance to confirm opening times and any potential entry fees.
Opening hours vary as the church is often used for private events like weddings and concerts. It's best to check the official schedule or contact them directly for current access information.
Yes, Normanton Church is a very popular and beautiful venue for weddings, offering a unique lakeside setting.
The church is available for hire for functions, including concerts and other events, adding to its appeal as a unique venue.
Yes, a boat trip on Rutland Water from Normanton Church is available for approximately £12 for adults and half that for children during peak season.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers the most stunning light for photographing Normanton Church. The serene waters also provide beautiful reflections.
Drone photography is popular here, capturing unique aerial perspectives of the church and Rutland Water.
The picturesque setting makes Normanton Church an ideal location for engagement photoshoots, with its romantic lakeside ambiance.
Its unique position on a peninsula jutting into Rutland Water, combined with the surrounding natural beauty, makes it incredibly photogenic.
While generally welcoming, be mindful of any private events or weddings taking place. Always respect the sanctity of the location.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't dining facilities directly at the church, there are picnic areas with benches overlooking the reservoir. Nearby towns like Oakham offer various dining options.
Yes, there are great open spaces overlooking the reservoir with plenty of picnic benches, perfect for an alfresco lunch.
Oakham, a short drive from Normanton Church, offers a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
There are cafes and refreshment points around Rutland Water, particularly at visitor centers and popular spots like Sykes Lane.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics in the scenic areas around the church.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the boat trip on Rutland Water for an added adventure that kids will love.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Beyond the church itself, the surrounding Rutland Water offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wildlife to water sports. The area is known for its scenic beauty, making it a rewarding destination for landscape and travel photography. Be sure to check for any events or weddings that might be taking place, as these can offer unique shooting opportunities, but also require sensitivity to privacy.
💍 Couples and Wedding Planners
+4 The church's interior is charming and well-maintained, providing an intimate space for vows, while the exterior offers a magnificent backdrop for photos.For couples seeking a picturesque location for engagement photoshoots, Normanton Church is ideal. The serene waters and the unique architecture provide a beautiful and memorable setting. Consider visiting during the week or during off-peak hours to experience the tranquility and capture intimate moments without large crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Normanton Church
This act of preservation has turned it into one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.The church's history is a fascinating tale of adaptation and survival. The decision to save the church was met with public support, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. Today, it stands as a testament to the community's efforts to preserve its heritage against the backdrop of modern development. Its story is often shared with visitors, adding a layer of depth to the visual beauty.
While no longer a functioning parish church, Normanton Church is now a museum and a popular venue for events. Its interior has been carefully maintained, preserving its historical charm. The surrounding area offers a peaceful retreat, with opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying the serene waterscape that now defines its existence.
Photography Tips for Normanton Church
For a unique perspective, consider drone photography. Drones can capture the church's striking position on the peninsula and the vast expanse of Rutland Water, creating dramatic and cinematic images.
Wide-angle lenses are excellent for encompassing the church and its watery surroundings, while telephoto lenses can isolate details or capture distant views across the reservoir.Beyond the iconic shots, explore different angles. Photographing the church from various points along the water's edge can reveal new compositions. The reflections of the church in the calm water on a still day are particularly captivating. For wedding photographers, the church offers a romantic and memorable backdrop, with opportunities for both intimate interior shots and grand exterior portraits.
+1Weddings and Events at Normanton Church
+4 Couples are drawn to its historic charm, the serene waterside ambiance, and the opportunity for truly memorable wedding photos.The church is available for hire for various functions, including concerts and special events.
+1Beyond weddings, the church has hosted other events, contributing to its role as a community hub. The opportunity to experience the church during a special event can add another layer to a visit, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal as a landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit