Are there opportunities to stay socially active?

Rutland’s thriving communities are packed with groups you can join. Walking clubs, book groups, and sports clubs for tennis, golf, and bowls all mean you can make fast friends with your new neighbours if you choose to retire here.

Can you live comfortably in Rutland without a car?

Towns like Oakham and Uppingham have key amenities all within walking distance of their centres, such as supermarkets and GP surgeries. Bus services and Oakham Railway Station mean you have plentiful access to public transport when you need it, too.

How easy is it to travel to other towns or cities from Rutland?

Travelling outside of the county is simple, with good connections via the A1 to Peterborough, Grantham, Stamford , and London . Rail connections from Oakham also make travel further afield, especially throughout the wider Midlands, more accessible.

Retirement homes in Rutland | McCarthy & Stone

Retire to Rutland

Despite being one of the smallest counties in the UK, Rutland's retirement living is among the most scenic in the East Midlands. The beautiful countryside is dotted with traditional villages and pretty limestone and ironstone cottages, with thatched or Collyweston slate roofs, and farms producing prime produce for your kitchen table.

Local seniors love:

Stunning nature walks and birdwatching opportunities, especially around Rutland Water.
Scenic towns like Oakham and Uppingham, which offer local shops and cafes perfect for people-watching with a coffee and pastry combo.
The deep sense of history within the county, with museums and Norman-era churches and castles never far away.

Discover what makes Rutland the ideal choice for those seeking a cosy retirement in the countryside.

1 retirement development in Rutland

Rentals available
Saxon Gardens
Oakham, Rutland
Retirement Living Plus
- Rent from £2,700 pcm

Explore places in the Rutland area

Oakham

Retirement living in Rutland

With stunning natural surroundings, a close-knit community, and all the amenities you need just a walk away, Rutland is perfect for those seeking a peaceful pace of life. Retiring here means you can enjoy the serenity of the countryside without missing out on opportunities to make new friends and take part in community activities.

Houses with thatched roofing and a gothic-style church in a small town in Rutland.

Rutland may be England’s smallest county, but don’t be fooled – there are plenty of things to see and do, with a good balance between lively events and quiet pastoral pursuits.

Walking - Rutland Water offers over 4,000 acres of walking and cycling trails around Britain’s largest man-made lake. There are also prime birdwatching and fishing opportunities here.
History - Sites like Rutland County Museum bring history to life with fascinating exhibits and talks.
Festivals - Rutland’s festivals include celebrations of local businesses and flower fairs, while Uppingham Feast Day is the perfect time to enjoy artisanal food.

Retiring in Rutland means you have the perfect home base to return to if you want to venture out and explore the rest of the East Midlands.

Day trips - Enjoy easy access to Leicester, Nottingham, Peterborough and Birmingham, or venture further to the Norfolk coast, perfect for clifftop walks.
Community - Explore groups like Uppingham Indoor Bowls Club, Rutland Folk Dance Club, and local U3A groups to meet your people and learn new hobbies.
Sports - The annual Rutland Walking and Cycling Festival has opportunities suitable for most abilities, perfect for staying active.

Boats with multicoloured sails on a lake in Rutland.

A field lit up by a sunset, village in the distance, in Rutland.

Rutland’s arts, culture, and community spirit are alive and well in all the small towns and villages across the county, making for plenty to enjoy here.

Art - Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham hosts regular exhibits and talks related to arts and culture.
Shopping - Weekly markets in Oakham and Uppingham mean you can enjoy artisanal crafts and delicious foods all year round. Independent shops also make for excellent opportunities to pick up unique gifts and enjoy a browse.
Community life - Rutland’s U3A offers a range of hobby groups for retirees, including art, walking, history, crafts, and gardening.

Despite its size and rural setting, it’s fairly easy to get around Rutland – although many might argue that the best way to get around is by bike, thanks to the county’s numerous beautiful cycling trails.

By car - The A47, A43, and A1 are all nearby, connecting the county to Corby, Peterborough, and Cambridge.
By bus - In Uppingham and Oakham, you’ll find regular bus services around the towns and beyond and rural areas, hamlets and villages are served by a friendly on-demand bus service.
By rail - There is only one train station in the county. Oakham train station offers services around the East Midlands and beyond, with regular trains to Derby, Leicester, Sheffield and Nottingham.

View down a country lane of Welland Viaduct in Rutland

Homeowner testimonials: telling it like it is

We believe we create great places to live. Beautiful award-winning retirement apartments in brilliant locations with thoughtful, reassuring, services on tap and a thriving friendly community on the doorstep. But what do people living in our communities think? We regularly ask for feedback on everything from the sales and moving in process to the lifestyle and services. Here’s what our homeowners have to say:

Choose your retirement living style

Our retirement developments offer differing amenities and assisted living services. Choose from two options to find your perfect fit.

Retirement Living

Easy independent living for people aged 60 and over. You’ll be looked after by a House Manager and enjoy shared amenities and a friendly community on the doorstep.

Retirement Living Plus

Independence combined with flexible assisted living for people aged 70 and over. Benefits include a chef-run bistro and optional Lifestyle Services from laundry to pet-sitting.

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Retirement living in Rutland FAQs

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a large building with trees in the front

Retirement properties in Rutland

Retire to Rutland

1 retirement development in Rutland

Saxon Gardens

Explore places in the Rutland area

Retirement living in Rutland

Homeowner testimonials: telling it like it is