Plans for a new ambitious nature-inspired tourism destination in Rutland
A full planning application for an ambitious and visionary new conservation and wildlife-led visitor attraction that puts nature and adventure at its heart, has been submitted to Rutland County Council.
Wild Rutland aims to create a new landmark destination stretching from Burley Wood to the Oakham bypass in Rutland, encompassing 1,000 acres of historic parkland and woodland - conserving it for future generations. The project plans to restore and enhance the heritage landscape by bringing back lost features and improving habitats for wildlife.
The development will offer a first-of-its-kind visitor experience that enables nature lovers to experience the wonder of British wildlife within a picturesque rural setting, whilst also protecting the indigenous species that live there -allowing them to thrive.
Through, storytelling, education, and a bold design rooted in biodiversity, Wild Rutland aims to foster a deeper public appreciation for conservation and inspire action for environmental stewardship.
When open to the public, Wild Rutland will offer an unparalleled journey through untamed habitats and curated encounters that celebrate native species. Visitors will be invited to explore the relationship between people, wildlife, and landscape through thoughtfully designed spaces and interpretive features.
The project’s CEO Hugh Vere Nicoll says, “Wild Rutland aspires to be an exemplar model of conservation-led ecological-tourism – one that restores heritage landscapes, reconnects people with nature and sets a benchmark for sustainable land management in the UK.”
The project aims to support Rutland County Council’s tourism ambition and boost the local economy by complementing existing attractions, supporting local businesses and creating job and volunteering opportunities.
“Wild Rutland is driven by a team with a deep knowledge and respect for the site and the local area, working with experts in the fields of restoration, conservation, education, tourism, attraction development and management,” said Hugh who has worked on the project since its inception.
The project is being delivered by two generations of the Hanbury Family, who have been custodians of the estate for generations.
James Hanbury said: “Wild Rutland was born from a deep love and respect for the animals and plants that call this historic landscape home. It is important to us to create a place where they can truly thrive. We see Wild Rutland as a unique opportunity to secure the long-term protection of the biodiversity and heritage of the site, while benefiting nature and the community of Rutland alike. Our vision is to offer visitors a unique experience — walking among British flora and fauna, perhaps catching views of a majestic osprey, and connecting with the landscape in a meaningful way.”
“It’s incredibly important to us that Wild Rutland is a safe home for nature – from the vast network of trees to the smallest insects and we have set out to create something genuinely new, inspired by the remarkable conservation work happening now across the county. We are proud to build on that legacy here in Rutland and look forward to welcoming all generations to explore the site and have adventures whilst inspiring future nature lovers to discover and be curious.”
“When Wild Rutland opens it will be a place where landscapes, wildlife, and people co-exist and thrive, where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the richness of British ecology, said James.
Key features of the proposal include a comprehensive programme of habitat restoration and conservation initiatives aimed at restoring lost habitats, enhancing and connecting existing ones and creating new ones. Wild Rutland aims to support native wildlife and preserve biodiversity alongside enhanced approaches to woodland, parkland, and site management that draw on best practices from across the county.
“The landscape proposals for the masterplan vision are informed by great English landscape designers of the past, drawing inspiration from centuries of evolving practice, whilst sensitively and harmoniously introducing contemporary features that ensure Wild Rutland remains rooted in its unique past, yet is adaptable for future generations,” said Hugh Vere Nicoll.
Wild Rutland’s plans also introduce accessible walking safari routes that allow visitors to experience nature first-hand. An education and exhibition centre will provide a dedicated space for school groups and visitors to learn about nature and engage with the site’s environmental story.
The plans also include secure enclosures for a range of native UK species some of which may be reintroduced to the site at a later stage, designed to protect the animals themselves and safeguard the site’s delicate ecosystem. Aiming to become a major new attraction in Rutland that supports Rutland’s community and creates opportunities for neighbouring businesses to flourish.
The plans include a nature-inspired visitor zone, to support the site’s operations and offer extensive high-quality food and beverage outlets and self-catering overnight accommodation designed to encourage longer stays in Rutland.
To complement the wildlife experience, leisure facilities within the proposal include a sustainable and bespoke-designed adventure playground offering a creative and engaging space for families to ignite imaginations and unlock adventure. A proposed high-ropes course will weave sensitively through the existing tree canopy, carefully designed to minimise environmental impact while providing an exciting woodland experience. These experiences are carefully integrated into the woodland, offering additional activities for visitors while supporting the site’s ecological focus.
Hugh Vere Nicoll, CEO of Wild Rutland, said: “This is a very exciting moment for Wild Rutland. These plans are the result of a great deal of hard work and extensive consultation, and we’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far. We now look forward to hearing from Rutland County Council as the application progresses.”
Gillespies is the lead master planner and designer of Wild Rutland, supported by a team of multidisciplinary experts. The full planning application has been finalised after a rigorous process of consultation with ecologists, historic landscape specialists, leading attraction development and management experts and national bodies and organisations. The plans also draw on insights and feedback from local environmental experts and the local community.
This landmark submission marks the beginning of a statutory consultation process led by Rutland County Council. Community members will have the opportunity to review the application and provide feedback in the coming weeks.