Village Life
Everything you need to know about the key places and facilities in Whissendine — from the church and windmill to the school and village shop.
St Andrew's Church
One of the finest churches in Rutland, St Andrew's is a Grade I listed building with origins dating back to the 13th century. Its magnificent 100-foot tower, built of Barnack stone, is a landmark visible for miles around.
The church was extensively enlarged in the 14th century, with a Victorian restoration overseen by Sir Gilbert Scott in the 1860s. Inside, highlights include numerous carved gargoyle heads, a medieval wooden screen originally from the old chapel of St John's College, Cambridge, and a spacious interior with nave, chancel, transepts and aisles. The nave roof features carved musicians and full-length figures, and the 14th-century octagonal font and 1888 Ketton stone pulpit are notable features.
The church is open daily and visitors are welcome.
There is a bookstall at the back of the church with books and jigsaws available. Donations for church funds.
Press the button below to read more about the church.
The White Lion Inn
For 100 years, The White Lion Inn has welcomed the people of Wissondine and beyond. Roaring fires, beautiful garden, real ales, gastro food, and a warm welcome, all set in the beautiful Rutland countryside. What more could you want?
With our award-winning ales, seasonal menu, and cosy atmosphere, The White Lion Inn is the perfect place to celebrate, meet friends, make new ones, or finish a long walk with a well-earned pint.
Visit our website to see updated events and sample menus, and of course book a table or room.
Whissendine Windmill
One of England's few remaining fully operational 19th-century windmills, Whissendine Windmill is a Grade I listed building on Melton Road.
Built in 1809 by the Earls of Harborough, the windmill worked commercially until 1922 when it was damaged in a gale. It was purchased by Nigel Moon in 1995 and painstakingly restored, with new sails fitted and the mill opened to the public in 2006. On 14 August 2009, it worked on wind power once again.
Today the windmill produces bread and pastry flours, spelt and barley flours, ryemeal and oatmeal, as well as middlings and bran for animal feed. Flour is available at the village Mace shop.
Visitors are welcome when the mill is working.
Photo: Peter Murray PM-iMAGES (C) 2007
Village Hall
Situated in the middle of the village, the King George V Memorial Hall has been at the heart of community life since 1937. Recently modernised, it caters for groups, events and private functions.
The main hall seats up to 100 guests, with a quieter meeting room for up to 35. Facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, bar area and stage. The hall is fully accessible with clean toilet facilities.
Regular users include the Parish Council, WI, Amateur Dramatics, Whissendine Luncheon Club, AgeUK, Pilates, Yoga and Zumba exercise classes, and monthly Bingo sessions. The hall also serves as a polling station and hosts the annual Parish Council AGM in November.
Whissendine Sports & Community Club
The Sports Club on Melton Road is the village's main outdoor recreation facility, with a full-size football pitch, cricket field, tennis court, bowls green and pétanque courts. The clubhouse includes a bar, kitchen and changing rooms, and is available for hire for private functions and events.
Village Walks
Whissendine is surrounded by beautiful Rutland countryside, with walking routes to suit all abilities — from a gentle stroll to the neighbouring village of Teigh to an eight-mile circular via the ancient track Loodle Lane. The village also sits along the Rutland Round, a 65-mile long-distance route close to the county's perimeter. Visit our Walks & Outdoors page to explore all the routes starting from Whissendine.
