A Scottish national newspaper is mooting Rutland as the perfect get away from it all destination to explore this summer.

In an online article headlined 'Explore these crowd-free beauty spots across the British Isles', The Herald features seven areas as 'an alternative to the obvious honeypots'.

It says: "As restrictions ease, hotels and attractions are preparing to open across the British Isles and it's likely many holiday-hungry travellers will hit the road.

"But there are fears a rush of numbers could ruin the experience, with concerns of overcrowded beaches and overrun national parks.

"Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives to the obvious honeypots."

The article goes on to highlight Rutland, Northumberland National Park, The West Highlands, Hayling Island in Hampshire, Ceredigion in Wales, Wicklow Way in Ireland and Durham Heritage Coast as 'some of the quieter, more remote locations to explore'.

The section on Rutland says: "Best known for its Birdfair in August, England's smallest county has all the elements of a quintessential countryside break: picturesque trails, quaint pubs and historical attractions.

"Rockingham Castle is a fine example of Norman architecture, while Rutland Water and Rutland Water Nature Reserve offer options for water sports and wildlife viewing in the otherwise land-locked region.

"Visit the fairy-tale Normanton Church, which appears to float on water when the reservoir is full."

What the Rutland section doesn't mention is that due to the coronavirus pandemic the 2020 Birdfair has been cancelled - although there is a virtual event being held in August - or that many of the water sports activities, Aqua Park and the beach at Rutland Water will remain closed this year.

It has also managed to relocate Rockingham Castle into Rutland from over the border in Market Harborough.