The Finch's Arms

The Finch's Arms

Overview

The Finch's Arms is a 17th-century country inn and restaurant set on the Hambleton Peninsula with sweeping views over Rutland Water, just outside Oakham in England’s smallest county. With its idyllic location and elegant yet relaxed hospitality, The Finch’s Arms is ideal for couples and gourmet travellers seeking a short break focused on good food, countryside tranquillity and a touch of characterful luxury. Classic stone exteriors and a welcoming village setting position this inn as the perfect base for walking, cycling and leisurely explorations around Rutland Water or the market towns nearby.

Eat

The kitchens at The Finch’s Arms deliver modern British dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and well-executed classical techniques. Local produce is proudly featured, often sourced from nearby farms and artisan suppliers. Expect a tempting set menu that celebrates each season’s best, with starters such as pork shoulder croquette or garden-fresh salads giving way to hearty mains like 28-day aged beef, day-boat fish, or inventive vegetarian options. The service ethos is polished but not stiff, with staff happy to recommend wines from a carefully chosen list. The inn is proud of its AA Rosette distinction, reflecting a commitment to both quality and flavour. Menus evolve regularly but keep comfort and satisfaction at their heart—Sunday lunches are especially popular for their generous roasts and convivial feel.

Sleep

There are individually designed guest rooms above the inn, many offering views out towards Rutland Water or over the Hambleton rooftops. Each is decorated with a blend of modern simplicity and heritage charm—think crisp linens, muted tones, and the occasional country flourish. Bathrooms are contemporary, providing rainfall showers or deep tubs. This is an inn for those who value both a tranquil night’s rest and the convenience of being steps from a bustling bar and acclaimed dining room. Mornings bring restful vistas, home-baked pastries and a wholesome breakfast, setting you up for a pottery of village and lakeside discovery.

Retreat

Guests can unwind on the inn’s terrace or in cosy lounges with a real fire, perfect after a bracing walk along Rutland Water’s shore. The surrounding countryside rewards with circular walks, cycling routes, birdwatching and water sports (when in season). The quaint streets of Oakham and Uppingham—both under 20 minutes’ drive—are filled with independent shops and historic sights. By car, The Finch’s Arms is within two and a half hours of London and just 30 minutes from Stamford, making it easy for a weekend or midweek escape. This corner of Rutland is made for slow living, punctuated by good food, village pubs and the ever-present call of the outdoors.