Normanton Park Hotel, BW Signature Collection in Oakham, England

Normanton Park Hotel sits on the shore of Rutland Water, Europe's largest man-made reservoir, with five acres of gardens extending to a private gate onto the lakeside path. The hotel's heritage dates to the 1700s, and its grounds offer direct access to cycling routes, trout fishing spots, and bird-watching hides along the reservoir. Nearby attractions include Oakham Castle, Burghley House, and Belvoir Castle, all within a 15-mile drive.

The 30 rooms include Lake View rooms with Juliet balconies offering a direct sightline to the water and the iconic Normanton Church on the far shore. Courtyard rooms provide ground-floor access and parking directly outside, while the Preston suite includes a jet bath. Each room is equipped with a tea/coffee maker, a TV, and an en-suite bathroom, with free WiFi available throughout the property.

The hotel operates two restaurants: the Clock Tower dining room and the Conservatory restaurant, both serving Rutland-sourced cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free menus. Afternoon tea includes warm scones, finger sandwiches, and a selection of cakes, served in the Conservatory overlooking the water. Breakfast is a buffet with cooked options, and the bar offers Doombar ale, wines, and special diet menus upon request.

The hotel specialises in wedding packages tailored to individual couples, with the Lakeside room accommodating receptions for up to 120 guests and the gardens providing ceremonial photo backdrops. Corporate meeting facilities include a boardroom for up to 20 delegates, with fax/photocopying and team-building activities offered on-site. A dedicated wedding coordinator assists with planning from booking through the day of the event.

Children are welcome with family rooms that include a double and a single bed, plus an outdoor play area with climbing equipment. Dogs are accepted in designated ground-floor rooms, and the hotel provides bowls and treats on request. Free parking on-site includes an electric vehicle charging station, and the garden gate leads directly to the Rutland Water circular walking trail.

Location: Shore of Rutland Water with private lakeside gate

Rooms: Lake View rooms with Juliet balconies overlooking Normanton Church

Dining: Two restaurants with vegetarian and gluten-free menus

Venue: Wedding packages for up to 120 guests in Lakeside room

Family: Outdoor play equipment and family rooms with twin beds

Travel: Free parking and electric vehicle charging station