Image shared for Rutland Water: Normanton Church and Dam to Sykes Lane
Park / Green space Out & back

Rutland Water: Normanton Church and Dam to Sykes Lane

Rutland

Distance
4.8 mi
Est. time
2h 15m
Difficulty
Easy
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the north walking exit of Normanton car park, off Normanton Road near Edith Weston (LE15 8HD). Follow the park path past the Waterside Cafe to Normanton Church, then keep to the shared shoreline trail with the reservoir on your left. Continue around the southeastern shore, climb onto the dam and cross its full length. At the far end follow the paved park route into Sykes Lane to the visitor facilities, then retrace the same way to Normanton.

Allow about 2 hours 15 minutes for the roughly 7.8 km return walk. Most of the route is surfaced and gentle, with a short stretch of compacted stone near the church that can be bumpy. The dam approaches include short steep ramps, and there are three gates. Share the trail with cyclists and watch for anglers casting. The exposed dam can feel windy. Cafes and toilets are available at Normanton and Sykes Lane, subject to their opening times.

Normanton is a public pay car park. It opens at 9am; seasonal closing times change, so check the entrance before setting off and return before the gates lock. Dogs must stay on leads and out of the water; the Sykes Lane beach is dog-free. Anglian Water currently warns of soft mud around low water levels: stay on the established path and keep off exposed reservoir bed and inlets.

Route and access information: Anglian Water's Rutland Water park map, current walking guidance and visitor information, with the Countryside for All route map. Check their visitor notices before travelling: https://anglianwaterparks.co.uk/rutland-water-park/walking-relaxing and https://anglianwaterparks.co.uk/rutland-water-park/visitor-information

Walk details

County
Rutland
Walk type
Out & back
Category
Park / Green space
Distance
4.8 mi (7.8 km)
Est. time
2h 15m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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