For the first time in more than 1000 years, native bears, wolves, and lynx could be seen within the Rutland countryside.

Wild Rutland is the exciting and ambitious project, put together by Joss and James Hanbury, two generations of a family who have farmed the land in Oakham for centuries.

With conservation at its heart, the aim is to turn 1200 acres of land stretching from Burley Wood to the Oakham bypass, into a public wildlife and nature reserve.

The plan is to open an immersive visitor attraction for nature and wildlife lovers, which complements the area and offers a place where the local community and tourists can enjoy the natural world in all its glory.

Re-introducing British species into the wild including Eurasian brown bears and lynx, both native to Britain until their extinction over a millennia ago, along with grey wolves which roamed free in the UK until the 17th century – will mean Wild Rutland is one of the only reserves in Britain where visitors can reimagine the landscape as it once was.

The planning application, which is anticipated to be submitted to Rutland County Council early next year, will set out the nature park’s mission to improve the biodiversity of Burley Wood and the surrounding fields.

The overriding intention is to improve the natural habitat and ecology of the area, which in turn will create new opportunities for greater bird, insect and reptile diversity. Ultimately, the ambition is that Wild Rutland will facilitate education and understanding and encourage people to enjoy the natural world, whilst reflecting positively on and promoting Rutland to a wider audience.

Stay in touch with the progress of the project on the website and on our social media channels.