Route: Rutland Water & Hambleton Peninsula Loop (United Kingdom)

Rutland, England's smallest county, has at its heart western Europe's largest man-made lake, created as a reservoir in the 1970s. This fast trail route around the reservoir takes in the area’s rolling countryside, rare wildlife and serene water views.

The 18-mile trail loop adds another 7 miles to include the peninsula - making a full 25 miles for a complete tour of Rutland Water.

You’ll pass the incredible Normanton church, perched on the edge of the reservoir, Rutland Water Visitor Centre where there’s a man-made sandy beach in summer, and places to spot cormorants and other birds.

The northern shores of the water, especially through Barnsdale Wood, contains several steep climbs and descents. If you visit in spring you’ll find this enchanting area of woodland carpeted with bluebells.

The western side of the reservoir is taken up by the Rutland Water Nature Reserve.