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The History of Rutland Hall Explore England’s Best Kept Secret

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“To provide authentic warm hospitality that creates cherished memories for our guests, with a sustainable commitment to supporting our environment, our colleagues and community.”

History of Rutland Hall

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 at 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.

Formerly Barnsdale Hall

Sadly, the hall fell into disrepair and passed through the hands of a variety of owners. However, when the twin valleys of the river Gwash were flooded in the mid 1970’s to create Rutland Water, the hall was lucky enough to be sited right on the shores of this new, man-made reservoir which significantly enhanced the property’s appeal.

During the 1980s and 1990s the property, known as Barnsdale Hall Hotel, offered timeshare lodges and exclusive leisure membership.

Rutland’s Crowning Glory

In May 2020, the Patel family bought Barnsdale Hall Hotel and set to work almost immediately to transform the resort into a widely recognised destination hotel.

The resort was rebranded and its name changed to Rutland Hall Hotel. During COVID the family invested heavily in refurbishing the main hall area, all 66 hotel bedrooms and the on site restaurant Blossoms. Since that time, the hotel has gone from strength to strength, growing its reputation as a family friendly resort, with outstanding wedding and conference spaces. The new Pavilion venue, a large 450 indoor space, was opened at the beginning of 2024, and plans are afoot to open a unique wellness centre. A large spa is also planned to open in the Summer of 2025.

Wedding Venue, Rutland Water View, Outdoor wedding ceremony, Terrace

Award-winning resort

Under new ownership, the resort has shone as an award-winning venue. Through 2022 and 2023, the resort won six 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 won the Platinum Award in the Best of Bridebook awards, showcasing itself as the ultimate luxury countryside venue for weddings in Rutland.

The Times voted Rutland Hall in the ‘Top 100 Places to Stay in the UK’ for 2023.

Family activities. Rutland Water. Cycling

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.