Oakham Castle
1 / 10

Oakham Castle

4.5
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Oakham Castle's magnificent 12th-century Great Hall, a rare architectural gem with a unique horseshoe collection. Free and open 24/7.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evening strolls

Peaceful atmosphere, free access

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Oakham Castle

Oakham Castle

Best Time

Evening strolls

Peaceful atmosphere, free access

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Oakham Castle's magnificent 12th-century Great Hall, a rare architectural gem with a unique horseshoe collection. Free and open 24/7.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful area with so much history. Glad it’s open to pedestrians for free all year round, 24/7."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Evening Wander

Explore the castle grounds and Great Hall for free, even after dark. A peaceful historical experience.

🐎 Horseshoe History

Don't miss the fascinating collection of giant horseshoes gifted by royalty and nobility.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Hall

The Great Hall

Oakham Castle

Marvel at rare 12th-century architecture and intricate medieval sculptures within this historic hall.

Commemorative Horseshoes

Commemorative Horseshoes

Oakham Castle

See a unique collection of giant horseshoes gifted by royalty and nobility over centuries.

Rutland Flag

Rutland Flag

Oakham Castle Grounds

Admire the striking Rutland flag flying high, a symbol of local pride and heritage.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Access, Historic Charm

Oakham Castle's Great Hall is a rare 12th-century gem, free to explore 24/7. Admire medieval sculptures and the unique horseshoe collection. It's a perfect spot for a historical wander, especially in the evening.

Horseshoe Tradition & Local Life

Discover the quirky tradition of nobility gifting horseshoes to Oakham Castle. The grounds are open, and the town of Oakham itself offers a charming local experience with cafes and shops.

Best Times

When
Evening strolls
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, free access
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Local markets & events
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌟 Stamford: maybe the most beautiful English town that most foreign tourists have never heard of. Golden stone, medieval lanes, Georgian elegance. One group knows it well: Film & TV location hunters. From Pride & Prejudice to Middlemarch to The Crown, they make magic here. 🎬✨ So why don’t more travellers stop? #HiddenGemsUK #UKTravel #VisitEngland #FilmLocations #BeautifulDestinations
@bencardsbites
6.8K likes • 119.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Evening Wander

Explore the castle grounds and Great Hall for free, even after dark. A peaceful historical experience. Reddit

🐎 Horseshoe History

Don't miss the fascinating collection of giant horseshoes gifted by royalty and nobility. Reddit

We stayed 1 night at the Armon Stamford. This hotel smelled amazing the second you walked into the lobby. The king size bed was comfortable and the little details like the rose toilet paper wasa nice touch. #Armon #ArmonStamford #Stamford #Connecticut #hotel
@christinabroom87
4.3K likes • 111.5K views
Countryside dreams 🍂✨ 🎞️ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=66WxH4b-8Cw 📌 Save for your visit in England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 📍Oakham and Exton: Located in Rutland, Oakham is known for Oakham Castle and its medieval horseshoes, while Exton charms with Exton Hall and scenic countryside near Rutland Water. #dreamhome #visitengland #countrysidelife #cottagestyle #holiday #natgeotravel #lovegreatbritain #travelblogger ...
huyenjamin____hailwood
0 likes • 1.2K views

☕ Cafe Stop

There's a cafe on-site offering drinks and snacks, though some find it a bit pricey. Reddit

🎨 Artist Events

Check for 'Creatives At The Castle' events featuring local artists and makers. Instagram

How stunning is @oakhamcastle for a Wedding Reception... we loved creating beautiful styling for our clients E&N on Thursday! It was a tough call pulling everything together as my Mum had just passed on the Sunday. I just wanted to highlight that the thing about running an independent business is you are always present and ready for your clients no matter what life throws at you.... We will alway...
lolarosevenuedressing
26 likes • 700 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Evening Wander

Explore the castle grounds and Great Hall for free, even after dark. A peaceful historical experience. Reddit

🐎 Horseshoe History

Don't miss the fascinating collection of giant horseshoes gifted by royalty and nobility. Reddit

☕ Cafe Stop

There's a cafe on-site offering drinks and snacks, though some find it a bit pricey. Reddit

🎨 Artist Events

Check for 'Creatives At The Castle' events featuring local artists and makers. Instagram

💍 Wedding Venue

Oakham Castle is a stunning venue for wedding receptions and events. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Oakham Castle for its free access, impressive 12th-century Great Hall, and the unique horseshoe collection. Many enjoy the historical atmosphere and the convenience of the grounds being open 24/7. Some find the on-site cafe a bit pricey, but the overall experience is highly regarded as a fascinating historical stop.

"the first time my partner and i ever came to oakham, we explored this lovely castle area in the evening time. i had never been to oakham before and he had prospects to move here, so we thought we’d look around. that was in february 2024 and this was my first time back since! a beautiful area with so much history. glad it’s open to pedestrians for free all year round, 24/7. fantastic for a wonder 🏰 i also loved the high flying rutland flag!"

lucky keyring

"Lovely afternoon in Oakham, had a coffee first in the cafe then a look round the castle. Made to feel very welcome by the staff can’t wait to visit again"

Zerina

"Lovely place to visit. Interesting building and the guide was very knowledgeable about the building and horseshoes. Nice coffee shop too, selling alcoholic drinks as well as teas and coffees. Cake and sandwiches."

Helen

What People Like

Free entry & 24/7 access
Historic Great Hall
Unique horseshoe collection

What People Dislike

Cafe prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oakham Castle is located in the heart of Oakham, Rutland. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available in the town center. For public transport, Oakham railway station is a short walk away, connecting you to major cities. Reddit

Yes, Oakham Castle is centrally located in Oakham town. Follow signs for the town center, and you'll find the castle grounds and the Great Hall easily. Reddit

Absolutely! Oakham has a train station with services connecting to places like Leicester and Birmingham. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the castle. Reddit

Oakham itself is a charming market town. Nearby, you can explore Rutland Water for outdoor activities or visit the historic town of Stamford, often called the 'finest stone town in England'. Reddit

There are several public car parks in Oakham town center, which is a short walk from the castle. Some street parking may also be available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The grounds and the Great Hall of Oakham Castle are free to visit and open 24/7, making it an accessible historical site for everyone. Reddit

The castle grounds and the Great Hall are open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, offering flexibility for your visit. Reddit

No, booking tickets is not required as entry to Oakham Castle's grounds and Great Hall is free and open to all. Reddit

Oakham Castle occasionally hosts events, such as 'Creatives At The Castle' featuring local artists, and has been used for wedding receptions. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming events. Instagram+1

Yes, the castle grounds and Great Hall are open 24/7, so you can visit and explore in the evening for a unique, peaceful experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the magnificent 12th-century Great Hall, featuring impressive medieval sculptures. You'll also find the unique collection of commemorative horseshoes gifted by royalty and nobility. Reddit

Yes, you can easily explore the Great Hall and grounds in an hour or two, making it perfect for a quick historical stop or a leisurely afternoon. Reddit

Oakham Castle was built in the 12th century and is renowned for its Great Hall, a rare example of Norman architecture. It has a long history of royal and noble visits, marked by the tradition of gifting horseshoes. Reddit

While not always formally advertised, knowledgeable guides may be present, especially during events, offering insights into the castle's history and the horseshoe collection. Reddit

The tradition of gifting horseshoes began with King Edward IV in the 15th century. Each horseshoe is a unique commemorative gift from visiting nobility and royalty, symbolizing their allegiance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located at Oakham Castle that serves teas, coffees, cakes, and sandwiches. Reddit

Oakham town center offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You can find options for a quick coffee and cake or a more substantial meal. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the cafe can be a bit expensive, but it offers a convenient option for refreshments during your visit. Reddit

The castle grounds are open and offer a pleasant space for a picnic, allowing you to enjoy the historic surroundings. Reddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, most cafes in the UK offer some vegetarian options. It's best to check with the cafe directly for current vegan offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of the Great Hall's architecture, the unique horseshoe collection, and the striking Rutland flag flying in the grounds. The exterior of the castle also offers picturesque views. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Great Hall and on the castle grounds. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. Instagram

Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while midday light is often best for capturing the details within the Great Hall. Evening visits offer a unique, atmospheric glow. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the castle management before flying a drone. Instagram

For commercial photography or filming, it's best to contact Oakham Castle management in advance to inquire about permissions and any associated fees. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oakham Castle is a fantastic, free destination for families. The open grounds are perfect for little ones to run around and explore, and the unique horseshoe collection in the Great Hall is sure to capture their imagination. It's a low-stress visit as entry is free and the site is easily navigable. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it an affordable family outing. The historical aspect can be made fun by turning it into a 'knight and princess' adventure, imagining the castle in its prime. The accessibility of the Great Hall means even younger children can appreciate the impressive architecture. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Oakham Castle is a dream for budget travelers as entry is completely free, and the grounds are open 24/7. You can soak in the history and admire the architecture without spending a penny. Reddit

Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the grounds, saving money on cafe expenses. The nearby town of Oakham also offers affordable pubs and cafes for a meal if needed. It’s a perfect stop for a free historical experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

For photographers and history enthusiasts, Oakham Castle is a treasure trove. The 12th-century Great Hall offers incredible architectural details, medieval sculptures, and unique lighting opportunities, especially during evening visits. The horseshoe collection provides a distinct subject matter rarely found elsewhere. InstagramReddit

Explore the grounds for shots of the Rutland flag and the castle's exterior. The combination of well-preserved medieval architecture and the quirky horseshoe tradition offers a rich visual narrative. Consider visiting during different times of day to capture varied light conditions. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Horseshoe Tradition

One of the most unique aspects of Oakham Castle is its tradition of gifting horseshoes. This practice dates back centuries, with royalty and nobility presenting a commemorative horseshoe upon their first visit to the castle. The collection housed within the Great Hall is a testament to this quirky historical custom, with each horseshoe often bearing the donor's crest or initials. It's a fascinating visual representation of the castle's historical significance and its connections to the wider realm. Reddit

Visitors can spend time examining the various sizes and designs of these impressive metal gifts. The sheer scale of some of the horseshoes is surprising, and their presence adds a distinct character to the already impressive medieval architecture of the Great Hall. It’s a conversation starter and a memorable detail that sets Oakham Castle apart from many other historical sites. Reddit

This tradition continues to this day, with modern visitors sometimes adding to the collection, though the most prominent are the historical ones. It’s a living piece of history that continues to engage and intrigue those who visit. Reddit

Architectural Significance: The Great Hall

The Great Hall at Oakham Castle is a rare and remarkably preserved example of 12th-century architecture. Built around 1180-1190, it stands as a significant piece of Norman design, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. Its construction is attributed to Robert de Ferrers, 2nd Earl of Derby. The hall's impressive stonework, including the detailed carvings and sculptures, offers a glimpse into the artistic and engineering capabilities of the medieval period. TikTok

Inside, visitors can admire the sculptures that adorn the hall, many of which are original to the 12th century. These carvings depict a range of figures and motifs, providing valuable insights into medieval art and symbolism. The sheer scale and preservation of the Great Hall make it a standout historical monument, offering a tangible connection to England's past. TikTok

Despite the rest of the medieval castle largely being gone, the survival of the Great Hall is a triumph. It serves as the focal point for visitors, allowing them to step back in time and appreciate the grandeur and historical weight of this exceptional structure. TikTok

Oakham Castle as a Venue

Beyond its historical significance, Oakham Castle has found a new life as a popular venue for special occasions. The stunning Great Hall provides a unique and atmospheric backdrop for wedding receptions, making it a sought-after location for couples looking for a memorable celebration. The blend of historic architecture and elegant styling creates a truly magical setting. Instagram+1

The castle also hosts various events and festivals, such as 'Creatives At The Castle,' which brings together local artists and makers. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the castle in a lively, community-focused atmosphere, often featuring art exhibitions, craft stalls, and opportunities to meet local talent. Instagram+1

These contemporary uses highlight the castle's enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to modern needs while preserving its rich heritage. Whether for historical exploration or celebrating life's milestones, Oakham Castle continues to be a vibrant hub. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2