Rutland Water, Artificial lake in Rutland, England.
Rutland Water is an artificial lake in Rutland, England, covering a wide area of countryside and linking several recreational zones with nature observation points. A paved perimeter track of about 23 miles runs around the entire body of water.
The reservoir was created between 1971 and 1975 by flooding several villages, including Nether Hambleton. The project became necessary to secure the growing water supply needs of the region.
The nature reserve became known for the successful return of breeding ospreys after a long absence from the region. Visitors can watch the birds from dedicated observation hides during the nesting season.
Access is available through several parking areas around the water, also easy to reach on foot or by bicycle. Day and annual passes cover entry to various parks managed by Anglian Water.
During maintenance work in 2021, scientists discovered a complete ichthyosaur fossil in the area of the water. The find is considered a major paleontological discovery for British natural history.
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