FLYING THE NEST
Beyond The Nest
So much to explore! The local area is packed with activities and things to do and see.
From exploring the beautiful market town of Stamford, paddling around Rutland Water, or having supper out at local pubs - there is something for all ages. Browse through our hand-picked lists with choices for everyone.
Fun for Families
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Burghley Garden of Surprises + Adventure Play
Fantastic New Children’s Adventure Play opened in 2023, alongside the Garden of surprises; an immersive water and play garden steeped in history.
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Sacrewell Farm
Explore food, farming and the beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside on a visit to Sacrewell Heritage Farm and Country Centre.
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The Yard, Stamford
The Yard is an indoor soft play centre & cafe dreamed up by two local mums who craved a place that accommodated & appealed to adults and children alike. Children have the freedom to explore the large play structure safely in their own environment, under 2’s have a designated space to explore and you grown ups can enjoy fresh coffee, grilled cheese sandwiches & sweet treats sourced from local suppliers.
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Belton House
There is something for everyone at Belton House - from the brilliant adventure playground, with its miniature train ride; to the indoor play and cafe, formal gardens of Dutch and Italian Design, deer park and stately home. Keep an eye out for seasonal events!
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Fineshade Woods
Be challenged by the exciting play areas and cycling, or explore the wildlife and history on foot before unwinding in the café.
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Barnack Hills and Holes
The Hills and Holes mark the site of a medieval quarry. Covering an area of 50 acres, the grassy slopes are home to a profusion of wild flowers.
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Barnsdale Gardens
With Britain's largest collection of individually designed gardens, Barnsdale Gardens is teeming with great ideas. There is no need to book your visit in advance, just turn up.
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Ferry Meadows
Whether you’re looking to walk, cycle, try some watersports, enjoy a cup of tea in one of the cafés, go fishing or just explore there's something for everyone.
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Rutland Aqua Park
The UK’s most exciting Aqua Park featuring the largest collection of bespoke big-impact water obstacles will re-open for the summer.
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Stamford Treasure Hunt Trail
A self-guided treasure hunt walking Trail around Stamford. Ideal for kids aged 6 – 106! 1.9-mile ‘loop’ Trail (takes 2+ hours to complete at your own pace).
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Tallington Lakes Leisure Park
The leisure homes have fabulous views of the 205 acres of clean spring water fed lakes; which are ideal if you want to water ski, wakeboard, jet ski, dinghy sail, windsurf, or canoe.
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Nene Valley Railway
The Nene Valley Railway, in its entirety, is an Accredited Museum and comprises several departments that preserve the Railway’s heritage.
Stately Homes & Amazing Buildings
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Burghley House
Burghley, one of the largest and grandest houses of the first Elizabethan Age.
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Belvior Castle
With The Engine Yard, a Luxury shopping and foodie area in carefully restored Victorian buildings and surrounded by woodland.
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Peterborough Cathedral
One of the finest Norman cathedrals in England.
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Grimsthorpe Castle
Discover this Historic Lincolnshire Park, Castle & Garden.
Best Local Pubs & Restaurants
PUBS
THE MILLSTONE, BARNACK
Our newest local, fantastic outdoor courtyard and bar. Walking distance from The Nest and yummy food.
THE WHITE HART, UFFORD
Beautifully revamped over the last year or so, we love this pub for its open fire, lovely interiors and good food.
THE PAPER MILLS, WANSFORD
In a gorgeous riverside village, the Paper Mills is a traditional stone pub with yummy ‘pub grub’.
THE BERTIE ARMS, UFFINGTON
Infamous for its monthly quiz night and recently refurbished, this is a very friendly and fun family pub and dogs are very much welcomed.
THE TOBIE NORRIS, STAMFORD
In one of Stamford’s oldest buildings and has a really lovely outside garden and serves delicious pizzas.
THE FINCH’S ARMS, HAMBLETON
A gastro pub in one of Rutland’s most sought-after villages, it reminds us of ‘The Holiday’. Brilliant food, a sun-soaked terrace and all looking out over the reservoir. Go for a walk around Rutland Water first to work up an appetite.
THE OLIVE BRANCH, CLIPSHAM
Another delicious gastro pub serving fantastic food. There is also a little shop where you can buy wines, oils, chocolates, jams etc.… to enjoy back in your lodge.
RESAURANTS
HAMBLETON HALL, HAMBLETON
Situated in a stunning country house hotel, with lots of history this Michelin Star restaurant is perfect for special occasions with an unbeatable view and large stone terrace.
THE GEORGE, STAMFORD
An iconic and unique hotel in Stamford with a choice of a number of rooms to dine in, each with their own menus and character. We love the Garden Room for a more relaxed evening, or the the Oak Room for the roast beef carved at the table on a silver domed wagon.
MILLY’S BISTRO
Milly's is a neighbourhood bistro in Stamford at the heart of the William Cecil hotel. Enjoy a weekly changing menu, with daily blackboard specials cooked simply using the best possible ingredients and wines to match.
THE CHUBBY CASTOR, CASTOR
If 7-course tasting menus are your thing then this is the place for you! A delicious and refined lunch and supper menu.
ORBIS, STAMFORD
Orbis opened in 2021 and serves 100% gluten-free sharing plates from all around the world. A must for a delicious lunch or dinner.
PIZZA DA MARIO, STAMFORD
A new authentic Italian pizzeria in the heart of Stamford! Arguably the best pizzas in town.
KANCHHI
A boutique Nepelese and Indian restaurant in Stamford - you can either eat in or get a delicious takeaway (for collection).
SUSHI AND SALAD
The best sushi in town - enough said! You can also takeaway.
Walk to a local pub: The Millstone, Barnack
If you follow the map it will take you along a footpath eventually leading you down into the village of Barnack.
Take a left once you reach the road in the village.
Take the second road on your right and you will see the pub on your left. Stop off for a much needed pint!
Local Markets
STAMFORD
Every Friday
UPPINGHAM
Every Friday
OAKHAM
Every Wednesday & Saturday
Golf Courses
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Luffenham Heath
Open to visitors all week (and weekends subject to availability) this club with over 100 years of fine golfing traditions offers a challenging and classic heathland course for all abilities. You can play 18 or 36 holes, and relax in the Clubhouse afterwards. Recognised golfing attire is required for all players.
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Greetham Valley
Visitors are welcome 7 days a week, just call 01780 460444. Greetham Valley has two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole course alongside. It is suitable for total beginners and enthusiasts.
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Burghley Park
Everyone is welcome all week and after 2.30pm on weekends. A course dating back to 1890 (the oldest course in Lincolnshire) providing an enjoyable and good test of golf for all standards of players.