Oakham is the county town of the picturesque rural county of Rutland. It is situated about 17 miles east of Leicester and just to the west of Rutland Water. This market town is rich in both history and character, and is the administrative centre for Rutland. Every Wednesday and Saturday is market day and features a wide variety of stalls. The reservoir at Rutland Water is one of the largest man-made lakes in Europe and provides a whole variety of outdoor attractions for visitors. Oakham's parish church has an impressive spire which dominates the surrounding countryside. The church dates mainly from the 14th century, although the oldest parts were built in the early 13th century. Of the Norman castle in Oakham, only the Great Hall is still standing. It is surrounded by steep earthworks marking the inner bailey. The hall dates from the late 12th century. Inside the Great Hall is a unique collection of horseshoes, stemming from a tradition for 500 years that any royalty or peers of the realm who pass through the town must pay a horseshoe in forfeit. Nowadays this custom is only adhered to on special occasions such as official royal visits. The horseshoes hang upside down. This is generally considered unlucky, but in Rutland it was believed to stop the devil from sitting in the hollow of the shoe.
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Places to Stay near Oakham
Lord Nelsons House (0.32 miles)
The Lord Nelson's House is one of Rutland’s premier dining establishments and hotels. Nestled in the corner of Market Square, Oakham it boasts four individually designed bedrooms and a simply scrumptious restaurant. Adored by ... More | visit website
Old Wisteria Hotel (The) (0.42 miles)
Set in the Rutland county town of Oakham, this attractive house was originally a cottage and has been carefully extended over the years to include private dining, residents lounge, and ... More | visit website
the garden room (0.57 miles)
Noel Arms (1.55 miles)
Come to the Noel Arms for great traditional pub food; fresh produce locally sourced by chef Dave Cox, and served at reasonable prices; especially good deals at early doors. Booking ... More
Kimbles Cottage (1.65 miles)
Perfect for family get togethers whatever the season, this wonderful and spacious property boasts lovely countryside views and a large and delightful garden just 5 minutes' drive from the shores of famous Rutland Water. Fishing, ... More | visit website
Old Plough (1.89 miles)
A unique picturesque 18th century inn situated close to Rutland Water, only 1 mile from the county town of Oakham. The Old Plough is within easy reach of Nottingham, Peterborough and ... More
America Lodge (2.06 miles)
The Old Plough (2.10 miles)
A unique picturesque 18th century inn situated close to Rutland Water, only 1 mile from the county town of Oakham. The Old Plough is within easy reach of Nottingham, Peterborough and ... More
Barnsdale Hall Hotel & Country Club (2.86 miles)
Our hotel is a magnificent Grade II listed building set in a conservation area in in the English county of Rutland.
The Barnsdale Hall Hotel is also located in landscaped gardens overlooking ... More
Hambleton Hall (3.01 miles)
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