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 developments in Rutland
Explore places in the Rutland area
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.
Activities for retirees 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.
Enjoy an active retirement in Rutland
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.
Arts, culture, and community 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.
Transport links and connections
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.
Browse by Retirement Living services
Our retirement developments offer differing amenities and assisted living services. Choose from two options to find your perfect fit.
McCarthy & Stone community news from Rutland
Retirement living in Rutland FAQs
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.
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.
Browse our retirement homes by city and county
Search for the best places to retire in the UK by selecting a city or county to explore.