Stamford is surrounded by a ring of attractive villages, each with its own character, history, and unique countryside charm. Here’s a look at some of the highlights, along with the routes that link them back to Stamford.

Barnack
Barnack is well known for the Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve, a unique landscape left from medieval limestone quarrying. In summer the reserve bursts into colour with rare wildflowers. The village’s grand church, St John the Baptist, is definitely worth a visit too. Barnack Road leads back into Stamford via leafy lanes and stone houses.

Empingham 
Best known as the gateway to Rutland Water, one of Europe’s largest man-made lakes, Empingham attracts birdwatchers, and walkers all year-round. The reservoir has ti all, nature reserves, trails, and water sports, while the local village pub, The White Horse, is a popular stop is you’re looking for a watewring hole. Empingham Road is lined with trees and homes full of character.

Ketton
Ketton’s history is in limestone quarrying — the very stone that helped build Stamford itself. At its heart we find St Mary’s Church, an impressive Norman building, with characterful stone houses set around it. Ketton Road provides a scenic drive from Stamford, with attractive rural views.

Uffington 
At the centre of Uffington stands All Saints’ Church, which dates back to the 12th century, overlooking a green lined with stone cottages. The village is home to the popular Bertie Arms, one of the regions oldest pubs. Uffington Road links the village to Stamford,  a relaxed farmland route with a true countryside feel.

Easton-on-the-Hill & Easton Lane
Easton – as its name would suggest – sits on higher ground, offering wide views across the Welland Valley and back towards Stamford. The village is home to the remains of a medieval priory and there is also a heritage centre. There’s an old windmill, and the Blue Bell pub is always worth a visit too. Easton Lane climbs up from Stamford, popular with walkers and cyclists for its peaceful setting.

Ryhall 
Home of a medieval church known for its fine stained glass. The nearby Ryhall Hall adds stately presence to the village. Ryhall Road, one of the busier routes into Stamford, is lined with both homes and businesses, so very much lived in, but also scenic.

Great Casterton & Little Casterton
Great Casterton has Roman roots, with Ermine Street — once part of the Roman road network — running through it. Today it’s a village with a mix of both historic cottages and newer homes. A short distance away, Little Casterton is smaller and quieter, offering open countryside and woodland views —  ideal for quiet reflection.

Tallington & Tallington Lakes
Tallington is best known for Tallington Lakes, ideal for those interested in sailing, fishing, and water-skiing. there’s even a dry ski slope. It’s perfect for a day out in its own right. The village itself has a shop and pubs too.

We’ve added a half and full day itinerary below to these and other local village spots (such as Helpston & the John Clare Countryside landscapes, should you wish to explore).

Half-Day Itinerary: Stamford & Two Villages

Morning: Start in Stamford

  • Stroll around Stamford Meadows by the River Welland for the classic town view.

  • Coffee stop at a High Street café (Lambert’s or The Cosy Club).

Late Morning: Uffington (5 mins drive east)

  • Visit All Saints’ Church and the pretty village green.

  • Optional: stop at the Bertie Arms for a quick drink or early lunch.

Afternoon: Barnack (10 mins drive from Uffington)

  • Walk through the Barnack Hills and Holes Nature Reserve. In summer, the wildflowers are spectacular.

  • Drive back to Stamford along Barnack Road — a scenic approach with glimpses of the historic town as you return.

Finish by mid-afternoon — perfect for those with only a few hours but wanting to experience village and countryside life around Stamford.

Full-Day Itinerary: Stamford, Villages & Rutland Water

Morning: Stamford → Easton-on-the-Hill (10 mins west)

  • Explore the old windmill and enjoy views over Stamford and the Welland Valley.

  • Drop into The Blue Bell pub for a coffee or early snack.

Late Morning: Empingham & Rutland Water (15 mins drive)

  • Head to Rutland Water Nature Reserve for a lakeside walk or cycle.

  • Birdwatchers can visit the Egleton or Lyndon reserves (ospreys in summer).

Lunch: Empingham

  • Eat at The White Horse or pack a picnic for Rutland Water’s shores.

Afternoon: Tallington & Uffington (20 mins loop)

  • Try a watersport or just enjoy a lakeside wander at Tallington Lakes.

  • On the way back, pause in Uffington to see the 12th-century All Saints’ Church and village green.

Late Afternoon: Ryhall & Return (10 mins north of Stamford)

  • Visit St John the Evangelist Church and take a short walk around the quiet lanes.

  • Return to Stamford for dinner — try the George Hotel for a classic experience, or one of the town’s modern bistros for something more relaxed.

 

Both of these itineraries allow time to relax and explore in equal measure and offer a meaningful taste of what the area has to offer.