The 5 Best Dog Walks in Rutland: A Local Trainer’s Guide
Rutland may be England’s smallest county, but it’s big on beautiful walks, especially if you’ve got a four-legged friend by your side. Whether you’re after scenic lakeside views, woodlands to explore, or peaceful countryside rambles, Rutland has something for every type of dog (and owner!).
Here are my top 5 dog walks in Rutland. All tried, tested, and dog approved!
1. Rutland Water – Sykes Lane to Whitwell Loop
📍 Start: Sykes Lane Car Park, Empingham
One of the most iconic dog-friendly walks in Rutland, this section of Rutland Water offers a mix of open fields, waterside paths, and shaded woodland. The loop between Sykes Lane and Whitwell is around 5 miles, but you can tailor the walk depending on your dog’s age, energy level, or training goals.
💡 Training Tip: Great for practising recall and loose lead walking with moderate distractions like cyclists and picnickers.
🐶 Off-lead? Yes, in most parts — but watch for cyclists and wildlife.
2. Exton Park and Fort Henry
📍 Start: Barnsdale Avenue or Exton village
Exton Park feels like a hidden gem. The walk takes you through ancient woodland, wide open meadows, and past the stunning Fort Henry lakes. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and often quieter than the more popular Rutland Water paths.
💡 Training Tip: A brilliant spot for working on calm behaviour in more tranquil environments.
🐶 Off-lead? Yes — lots of safe space to let them explore, but sheep may be nearby depending on the season.
3. Fineshade Woods
📍 Start: Fineshade Visitor Centre, near King's Cliffe
Although technically nudging the Rutland border, Fineshade Woods is too good to leave off the list. It’s managed by Forestry England and has clearly marked trails, dog bins, and even a café that welcomes muddy paws.
💡 Training Tip: Ideal for confident off-lead walks with dogs who love a sniffathon. The varied terrain also makes it great for mentally stimulating your dog.
🐶 Off-lead? Yes — just be mindful of cyclists on shared trails.
4. Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve
📍 Start: Pit Lane, Ketton
If your dog enjoys a slightly wilder feel, Ketton Quarry offers a lovely circular route through grasslands, limestone outcrops and woodland edges. It’s a short but rewarding walk, perfect for a mid-week leg stretch.
💡 Training Tip: A great place for building focus and connection, especially if your dog is prone to distractions in more natural settings.
🐶 Off-lead? Yes — but the terrain can be uneven in places, so good recall is a must.
5. Uppingham to Bisbrooke Circular Walk
📍 Start: Uppingham Market Square
This charming countryside loop takes you through quiet lanes, across fields, and past pretty views of Rutland’s rolling hills. It’s a peaceful walk that starts and finishes in the heart of Uppingham, where you can grab a coffee afterwards (many cafés are dog-friendly!).
💡 Training Tip: Useful for practising calm walking through village areas before heading into open countryside.
🐶 Off-lead? Some areas, yes — but expect stiles and farmland along the way.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're socialising a young puppy, building your rescue dog’s confidence, or just looking to enjoy the outdoors together, these Rutland walks offer the perfect mix of adventure and training opportunities.
Looking for more personalised training tips on the go? Or need help with recall, reactivity, or confidence-building? I offer 1-to-1 dog training sessions right here in Rutland — check out my services to get started.
