Oakham

Oakham is the county town of Rutland, England, which lies around 17 miles east from Leicester. There are a number of buildings of historical importance, including All Saints Church, which features an impressive spire and was built during the 14th century.

The church dominates the town’s surroundings and offers views of the area for several miles in all directions and is a Grade I listed building. Also of importance is Oakham Castle, however only the great hall of the Norman castle is still standing. The hall dates from around 1180 and is laden with Romanesque architectural details.

 

An unusual site in the town is the horseshows, where tradition dictated that members of royalty who visited the town had to pay a forfeit in the form of a horseshoe. There are now over 200 of these commemorative shoes on the Oakham Castle Hall’s walls. To access the town of Oakham, the main route by road is A47, however Oakham sits on the A606 road between Melton Mowbray and Stamford.

Barnsdale Gardens
These gardens have been made famous by the BBC show, Gardeners World. There are 37 gardens in all, spread over 8 acres. You can purchase plants here as well, and have refreshments in the café. (01572 813 200)

Dudley Castle
One of the only castles we know that is smack bang in the middle of a zoo. This castle has had some knocks since the 1071 and perseverance has seen it rebuilt four times.
(01384 215 316)

Dudley Zoo
With over 1000 animals living here, it can be quite a day out. All the big names are here, such as the tigers, lions, giraffes and monkeys, plus plenty of other rare and different species. (01384 215 313)

Oakham Castle
Not so much castle looking but exceptional all the same. This 12th century manor houses lots of historic artefacts, amongst some impressive architecture.
(01572 758 440)

Rutland County Museum
This museum tells the history of England’s smallest county’s, Rutland. Located in Catmos Street. (01572 758 445)