Hambleton Hall
Michelin-starred country house hotel on Rutland Water, where Victorian elegance meets contemporary comfort.
A quintessentially English country house hotel set on a peninsula jutting into Rutland Water, Hambleton Hall combines Victorian elegance with contemporary comfort. This intimate 17-bedroom retreat has held a Michelin star since 1982—the longest continuously held in the UK—and offers exceptional fine dining under head chef Aaron Patterson, alongside immaculate grounds, traditional country pursuits, and personalised service that treats guests as house visitors rather than paying customers.
A brief summary to Hambleton Hall
- Ketton Rd, Oakham, LE15 8TH, GB
- +441572756991
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book the set lunch menu on weekdays for exceptional value—significantly less expensive than à la carte dining while maintaining the same kitchen standards and Michelin-starred quality.
- Request a room with views of Rutland Water when booking; the panoramic vistas across the lake and gardens enhance the entire experience, particularly for sunset viewing from your room.
- Arrive early enough to enjoy pre-dinner drinks and canapés on the terrace overlooking the grounds and water—this sets the tone for the evening and showcases the hotel's setting at its best.
- Consult the sommelier for wine pairings rather than selecting independently; the wine list favours independent producers and the staff's expertise elevates the pairing experience significantly.
- If mobility is a concern, inform the hotel before arrival; staff proactively arrange accessible rooms with lift access and handle special requirements with remarkable attentiveness.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Hambleton Hall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hambleton Hall
A Century of Refined Hospitality
Hambleton Hall stands as one of England's finest country house hotels, a Victorian mansion built in 1881 as a hunting lodge and transformed into a luxury retreat by owners Tim and Stefa Hart, who have stewarded the property for decades. The hotel's 17 bedrooms ensure an intimate, residential atmosphere where service remains genuinely personal rather than formulaic. Each room carries its own visual identity, with period furnishings and contemporary comforts seamlessly integrated. The property's classic aesthetic—traditional in style yet deliberately kept fresh—reflects a philosophy that rejects the trend toward irreverent modernisation in favour of timeless elegance.Lakeside Setting and Grounds
The hotel occupies an exceptional location on a peninsula extending into Rutland Water, England's largest man-made reservoir. Hambleton Hall's grounds sweep down to the water's edge, offering panoramic views across the lake and surrounding countryside. Terraced gardens, immaculately landscaped and maintained, provide a serene backdrop for pre-dinner drinks on the terrace or afternoon leisure. The setting invites guests to experience country-house classics: croquet on the lawn, tennis on the court, or cycling through the Rutland landscape via complimentary bike hire. This natural setting transforms the hotel experience from mere accommodation into a complete countryside retreat.The Michelin-Starred Dining Room
The restaurant represents the heart of Hambleton Hall's identity, holding a single Michelin star continuously since 1982—a distinction unmatched by any other UK restaurant. Head chef Aaron Patterson has led the kitchen since 1992, crafting seasonally inspired menus that celebrate British ingredients prepared with classical technique and modern sensibility. The dining room itself is appropriately stately, with tables positioned to allow comfortable conversation and intimate dining without crowding. Signature dishes showcase Patterson's philosophy: heritage carrots with spiced carrot ice cream, duck with kumquat and caramelised endive, and roast Pyrenean mountain lamb with violet artichoke and creamed potatoes. The kitchen's relationship with local suppliers runs deep—producers visit personally to deliver their finest offerings. Desserts, particularly the hotel's celebrated soufflés and sorbets, are executed with precision and visual artistry. The wine list, curated with pride toward independent producers, pairs expertly with each course, guided by knowledgeable sommeliers.Service and Attention to Detail
What distinguishes Hambleton Hall is the calibre of its service philosophy. Staff are trained to anticipate needs without hovering, to remember preferences without being asked, and to resolve any concern with quiet efficiency. The hotel's approach treats guests as special house visitors rather than transactional customers—a distinction evident in small gestures like personalised menus for celebrations, immediate responses to requests, and the warmth with which arrivals and departures are handled. This level of attentiveness extends across all departments: housekeeping maintains impeccable standards, bar staff craft cocktails with care, and the sommelier provides wine advice that enhances rather than overwhelms the dining experience.Culinary Versatility and Accessibility
While the restaurant's Michelin star reflects fine-dining excellence, Hambleton Hall offers dining flexibility. A set lunch menu provides exceptional value at significantly lower cost than à la carte pricing, making the kitchen's quality accessible to a broader audience. Vegetarian options are thoughtfully developed, though vegan selections remain limited. The breakfast menu balances traditional English fare—full cooked breakfasts, grilled kippers, smoked haddock—with continental options, fresh-squeezed juices, and premium coffee service. This range ensures that whether guests dine formally or casually, the standard of preparation and presentation remains consistently high.The Complete Country House Experience
Hambleton Hall succeeds because it understands that a country house hotel is not merely a place to sleep and eat, but an environment in which to experience a particular way of life. The combination of architectural authenticity, lakeside setting, exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and genuine hospitality creates an experience that appeals to those seeking refinement without pretension, tradition without stagnation, and comfort without compromise.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stamford Castle
12.5 km
Discover the Norman heritage and medieval echoes at Stamford Castle, a historic motte and bailey fortress nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire.
St Leonard's Priory, Stamford
13.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St Leonard's Priory in Stamford, a captivating medieval gem waiting to be explored.
English Heritage - Apethorpe Palace
17.1 km
Explore the enchanting Apethorpe Palace, a historical landmark showcasing England's rich heritage and stunning Tudor architecture.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
25.5 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Lynch Lodge
25.8 km
Step into history at Lynch Lodge, a beautifully preserved Georgian porch and unique holiday let nestled in the tranquil village of Alwalton near Peterborough.
Welford Place
31.6 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
32.0 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
32.1 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Trinity Bridge
33.7 km
A unique 14th-century three-way stone bridge in the heart of Crowland, once spanning two rivers, now a striking medieval monument in the town centre.
Museum Development East Midlands
35.1 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
35.2 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
39.1 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
National Trust - Stoneywell
40.6 km
Explore Stoneywell, a stunning National Trust property in Markfield, offering breathtaking gardens, rich history, and unique Arts and Crafts architecture.
Sleaford Castle
41.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Sleaford Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in centuries of ecclesiastical history and local heritage.
Framework Knitters Museum
41.6 km
Discover the fascinating history of hosiery at the Framework Knitters Museum in Ruddington, where heritage and culture come alive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oakham Castle
4.3 km
Explore Oakham Castle, a historical gem in Oakham, featuring stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and enriching cultural experiences.
All Saints Church : Oakham
4.4 km
Explore the historic All Saints Church in Oakham, a stunning Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for a serene visit.
Wing Maze
4.8 km
Explore Wing Maze, a rare medieval turf labyrinth in Rutland, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and tranquil countryside charm.
Lyddington Bede House
10.9 km
Explore a rare medieval bishop’s palace turned almshouse, rich with Tudor craftsmanship and centuries of English heritage in the charming village of Lyddington.
Burrough Hill - Iron Age Hillfort
14.8 km
Explore Burrough Hill, a stunning Iron Age hillfort with rich archaeological finds and panoramic views near Melton Mowbray.
Burrough on the Hill
14.9 km
Explore Burrough Hill, a commanding Iron Age hillfort near Melton Mowbray with rich archaeological heritage and panoramic countryside views.
Kirby Hall
15.0 km
Explore the majestic Elizabethan Kirby Hall, a stunning blend of Renaissance architecture and tranquil gardens in Northamptonshire.
National Trust - Woolsthorpe Manor
17.0 km
Explore the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton and discover the origins of gravity in this historic Lincolnshire manor with interactive science exhibits.
Bowthorpe Oak
18.2 km
Discover the ancient majesty of the Bowthorpe Oak, the UK’s largest girth oak, set within a charming family farm in Lincolnshire’s tranquil countryside.
Sacrewell Farm
19.2 km
Explore rare breeds, historic watermill, award-winning play areas, and artisan crafts at Sacrewell Farm near Peterborough.
Easton Walled Gardens
19.3 km
Discover the historic charm and seasonal beauty of Easton Walled Gardens, a tranquil haven near Grantham blending heritage and horticulture.
Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
20.8 km
Explore centuries of history, art, and nature at Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens, a majestic estate with elegant gardens and vast wildlife-rich parkland.
Elton Hall and Gardens
23.6 km
Discover the enchanting blend of medieval, Gothic, and Victorian heritage at Elton Hall and its award-winning gardens near Peterborough.
Windmill Farm Park
24.9 km
Five generations of farming heritage meet family adventure in rural Leicestershire.
Belvoir Castle
27.4 km
Regency splendour on a hilltop, where a thousand years of aristocracy meets Hollywood glamour.
Essential places to dine
Hambleton Hall
0.0 km
Michelin-starred country house hotel on Rutland Water, where Victorian elegance meets contemporary comfort.
Six Bells
17.5 km
A charming village pub and boutique inn offering refined British cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in Witham on the Hill.
Restaurant Jericho
29.7 km
Farm-to-table fine dining in the heart of Nottinghamshire’s countryside, where rustic charm meets innovative cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
30.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Casa Romana Restaurant
31.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
31.5 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
31.7 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
31.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
31.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
31.7 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
31.8 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
31.9 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
31.9 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
31.9 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
32.6 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Boutique Ltd
18.8 km
Discover Unique Boutique Ltd, a charming clothing shop offering personalized fashion finds in the historic market town of Melton Mowbray.
The Yards Kettering
29.2 km
Discover The Yards Kettering, a vibrant independent shopping centre blending vintage charm with modern boutiques in the heart of town.
Valley Discount Store
29.4 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Nest
29.6 km
Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.
St George's Shopping Park
30.7 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Prettiez
30.7 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Karma Corner Gifts
30.8 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
31.3 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
31.4 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Nim's Boutique ltd
31.6 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Urban Outfitters
31.6 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Source
31.6 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Just Fair Trade
31.7 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
31.7 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
31.7 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wine Bar Stamford
12.9 km
A lively, modern wine bar in Stamford offering quality wines and a vibrant social atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Bertie Arms
16.1 km
A charming thatched pub in Uffington offering fresh local food, warm hospitality, and a cozy countryside atmosphere.
The Pack Horse
24.8 km
A warm and lively gastropub in Northborough serving classic British fare with a modern touch and a friendly community spirit.
The Kings Arms
26.2 km
A charming traditional English village pub in Polebrook offering hearty food, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Oxcart
26.6 km
A welcoming, no-frills estate pub in North Bretton offering classic local hospitality since the 1970s.
The Windmill
27.7 km
A welcoming village pub in Orton Waterville offering classic fare, real ales, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Lime Tree
28.2 km
A friendly, lively pub in Peterborough’s Walton area, offering great drinks, fresh food, and vibrant music nights daily.
Nags Head
28.3 km
Historic village pub in Harby offering warm hospitality, hearty home-cooked meals, and well-kept ales in a cozy traditional setting.
The Brewery Tap
29.8 km
A vibrant microbrewery pub and Thai restaurant in historic Peterborough, blending craft ales with lively entertainment and authentic flavors.
The Draper's Arms - JD Wetherspoon
29.9 km
A lively, affordable JD Wetherspoon pub in Peterborough offering hearty meals and drinks in a spacious, casual setting with daily specials.
The Bumble Inn
30.0 km
A beloved micropub in Peterborough serving expertly kept real ales in a cozy, friendly setting with a vibrant local vibe.
Palmerston Arms
30.0 km
Traditional Peterborough pub with quality cask ales, welcoming atmosphere, and authentic local charm in Woodston.
Blind Tiger
30.0 km
Peterborough’s vibrant craft beer bar with 26 taps, quirky urban style, live events, and a unique community spirit.
Geneva Bar
30.0 km
A friendly, casual bar in Peterborough known for karaoke nights and a welcoming atmosphere with moderate prices.
The Ostrich Inn
30.0 km
A vibrant, quirky pub in Peterborough known for local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with cozy corners and a beer garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Honeymoon-worthy
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Elegant
- Sophisticated
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Business Friendly
