On a cold sunny day in early January, after the snow had disappeared we decided a trip out would blow away the cobwebs. All wrapped up against the cold we set off. Rutland Water was the finally the decided destination after setting out with no clear idea of where we were heading to.
This natural looking lake is actually a reservoir. This was needed to provide water for the highly populated area of the East Midlands. Several sites were considered by Anglian Water but the twin valleys of the River Gwash was the site chosen. The site was controversial as the land was fertile farming land that had been farmed for centuries. The clay subsoil was thought to be ideal to construct the reservoir. So, in 1971 construction began. In 1975 they began pumping the water, drowning several farms and the village of Nether Hambleton. In 1976 the reservoir formerly known as Empringham reservoir was officially opened with a new name of Rutland Water. It took until 1979 to fill, covers 3100 acres and has 25 miles of shoreline.
Today the site is a destination for water sports, fishermen, bird watchers , cyclist and walkers. There are several hotels along the shoreline amongst the many other attractions.
The Normanton Church was the one building saved from the flooded valley It was a medieval Church of St. Matthews, rebuilt in the 18th century It was saved by raising the floor by 3 metres and water proofing the foundations. Today its a museum housing the many archaeological finds from the valley during construction
After a less than brisk (I don't do brisk any more!) but stimulating walk we had a refreshing cup of tea at the Crazy Fox Cafe before departing to another area of the shore line
There we watched a lovely sunset over the water before heading for home.
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