Uppingham to Lyddington Loop

Route Overview

The Uppingham to Lyddington Loop is a charming 4-mile circular walk that connects two of Rutland's most attractive settlements through gentle rolling farmland and quiet country lanes. Starting from the handsome market town of Uppingham, the route follows field paths and lanes south to the village of Lyddington - home to the Bede House, a remarkably preserved medieval building managed by English Heritage - before returning through open countryside with sweeping views across the Welland Valley.

The walk begins on the southern edge of Uppingham, descending through arable fields with wide panoramic views towards Northamptonshire and the distant ridge of hills beyond the Welland. The paths are clearly waymarked with yellow arrows and form part of the well-established Rutland Round long-distance route. The terrain undulates gently, with one steady descent into Lyddington and a corresponding climb back out, earning the route its moderate difficulty rating.

Lyddington itself is worth a leisurely pause. The village retains its medieval layout, with honey-coloured ironstone cottages lining a broad green and the impressive church of St Andrew standing watch at the northern end. The Marquess of Exeter pub sits at the heart of the village and welcomes dogs in its bar area, making it a perfect halfway refreshment stop. The Bede House, originally the medieval palace of the Bishops of Lincoln, is open during the summer months and provides a fascinating glimpse into Rutland's ecclesiastical heritage.

From Lyddington, the return leg takes you along the eastern edge of the village before climbing back through fields to the outskirts of Uppingham. The route offers a satisfying blend of small-town character, historical interest, and open countryside. It is long enough to feel like a proper walk, yet short enough to complete in a leisurely morning or afternoon with time for refreshments at either end.

Dog-Friendly Features

Dogs can be off lead on the majority of the field paths between the two settlements, though livestock are frequently present in the fields, especially from April to September when cattle and sheep graze the pastures. Always check each field as you enter and be prepared to put your dog on a lead promptly. The arable fields after harvest in late summer and autumn are excellent for off-lead running, with clear sight lines in all directions and firm, dry ground underfoot.

A small stream crossing on the outward leg provides fresh water for drinking and a chance for a paddle, which most dogs appreciate on warmer days. The paths are generally well drained on the higher ground, though some sections through the valley bottom can hold water after rain. Several stiles are present on the route - most have dog-friendly gaps or lift-over points, but owners of larger breeds should be prepared to assist their dogs over the occasional awkward crossing.

Dog waste bins are available in both Uppingham and Lyddington. Between the two settlements, please bag and carry any waste until you reach the next bin. Both villages have taps or troughs where dogs can drink, and the country lanes used on sections of the return leg are quiet enough for dogs to walk safely without concern about traffic.

Getting There & Parking

Uppingham has a central car park on North Street East (LE15 9QH) with spaces for around 60 vehicles. Parking is free for the first two hours, with modest charges thereafter, making it practical for the roughly 90-minute walking time. The walk starts from the southern edge of town, a five-minute walk from the car park past the school playing fields.

There is no railway station in Uppingham. The nearest station is Oakham, approximately 6 miles north, from where bus services connect to Uppingham. Additional bus services run between Uppingham and Corby, providing an alternative public transport option.

Seasonal Tips

Late spring and early summer are the finest times for this walk, when the fields are lush and green, wildflowers border the paths, and the views across the Welland Valley are at their most expansive. Skylarks sing overhead from April through July, adding a memorable soundtrack to the walk. Autumn offers golden stubble fields and the warm tones of Lyddington's ironstone cottages glowing against a clear October sky.

Winter walking is pleasant on dry, crisp days, but the field paths can become heavy with mud after sustained rain. The descent into Lyddington can be slippery in wet conditions - walking poles are a worthwhile addition from November to March. The route is exposed to the wind on the higher ground between the two settlements, so dress warmly and carry waterproofs even when the forecast looks promising.

Nearby Facilities

Uppingham offers an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, and pubs. The town is particularly known for its antiques dealers and bookshops, making it a pleasant place to explore after the walk. Several cafes welcome dogs, and The Vaults pub on the market square is a reliable dog-friendly choice with good beer and hearty food. The Falcon Hotel on the high street is another welcoming option.

In Lyddington, The Marquess of Exeter is a well-regarded gastro pub serving food and welcoming dogs in the bar area, with a pleasant beer garden for warmer days. Public toilets are available in Uppingham. Veterinary services can be found in Oakham, approximately 6 miles to the north.