Rutland Water Golf Course occupies a distinctive setting in the East Midlands, positioned near one of England's largest man-made reservoirs in the rolling countryside of Rutland. Designed by Ben Stephens and opened in the early 1990s, the course takes advantage of the area's gentle topography and natural drainage, characteristics that make the land well-suited for year-round play in a region known for its agricultural landscape and outdoor recreation centered around the reservoir itself. The layout reflects Stephens' approach to creating accessible parkland golf that works with the existing terrain rather than imposing dramatic earthworks. The course features a mix of open holes and those framed by mature trees, with water hazards appearing on several holes—a nod to the proximity of Rutland Water, which serves as both a scenic backdrop and a defining feature of the local environment. The routing allows golfers to experience varied shot-making demands across relatively modest elevation changes. Rutland Water functions primarily as a members' club while welcoming visitors, serving the local golfing community in a county that, despite being England's smallest historic county, has developed a reputation for outdoor pursuits. The clubhouse and facilities cater to regular play and social gatherings, typical of regional courses that anchor their communities. The course provides a straightforward test of golf in a pleasant rural setting, appealing to those who appreciate the combination of parkland character and the unique landscape context of the reservoir area.