About Rutland Hall! Opening its doors as a hotel in the 1990’s the property was known as Barnsdale Hall Hotel. The Main Hall was originally constructed in 1890 for the 6th Earl Fitzwilliam as a family hunting lodge. The geographical position of the hall placed it in the heart of the most prestigious fox hunts in the country; the Quorn, the Belvoir and the Cottesmore, and gave the Earl the opportunity to play host to royalty, including Edward, the late Duke of Windsor and Mrs Simpson and the cream of England’s aristocracy.
our mission
“To provide authentic warm hospitality that creates cherished memories for our guests, with a sustainable commitment to supporting our environment, our colleagues and community.”
Formerly Barnsdale Hall
During past years, the hall fell into disrepair and passed through the hands of a variety of owners. When the twin valleys of the river Gwash were flooded in the mid 1970’s to create a reservoir, Rutland Water became Europe’s largest man-made lake and resulted in the creation of extensive nature reserves which attract a large number of endangered species, particularly the Osprey. The 80’s and 90’s saw the construction and expansion of Barnsdale Hall Hotel, with the main hall and its rich history as its centerpiece.
Rutland’s Crowning Glory
The Patel Family bought Barnsdale Hall Hotel in May 2020. The family set to work almost immediately to transform the resort into a widely recognised destination hotel. A major part of the investment plan also comes from creating a new brand identity for the hotel, to more closely represent the resort and its location. Standing proudly on the shore of Rutland Water, in September 2021, the hotel changed its name to Rutland Hall Hotel & Spa. Today, the resort continues to develop as the team strive to accomplish a vision of delivering a high quality experience in contemporary, stylish surroundings within a tranquil setting, topped off with stunning views overlooking Rutland Water, the counties crowning glory.
Accolades
Under new ownership, the resort has shone as an award-winning venue. Through 2022 and 2023, the resort has won 6 awards, as well as being featured on the BBC. The business has been awarded both ‘Medium Business of the Year’ as well as ‘Large Business of the Year’, with the dedication of its employees also being recognised with the award of ‘Team of the Year’ for its Housekeeping team.
As a destination for special occasions, Rutland Hall has won the Platinum Award in the Best of Bridebook awards, showcasing itself as the ultimate luxury countryside venue for weddings in Rutland.
The Times has voted Rutland Hall in the ‘Top 100 Places to Stay in the UK’ for 2023.
The Great Outdoors
Rutland Water is the centrepiece for sporting activities in the county. Set in stunning 3,100 acres of beautiful rolling English countryside, Rutland Water has a 25 mile (40 km) perimeter track, perfect for cycling, walking and running. There’s a huge range of activities waiting for you, regardless of your age or ability. The smallest county in England is the perfect place to spend time enjoying the great outdoors!
Out on the Water
Rutland Water is famous for its water sports and sailing facilities and it’s also the perfect place for a spot of fly fishing.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced hand, relax and unwind on the lakeside shores, or hire a small dinghy to explore the waterways. You won’t be short of things to do in Rutland.
Picturesque Villages
With over forty chocolate-box style villages, explore the unique character and local charm of Rutland.
Stroll through the villages, taking in the charming and unspoilt scenery. With history at every turn, there is so much to explore during your Rutland break.