Oakham Market Place and Buttercross
A historic octagonal market cross, the picturesque Buttercross is the heart of Oakham's vibrant Market Place, perfect for exploring local life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bustling market atmosphere
Oakham Market Place and Buttercross
Best Time
Bustling market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic octagonal market cross, the picturesque Buttercross is the heart of Oakham's vibrant Market Place, perfect for exploring local life.
"Great historic cross in the town centre. Lots of cafes and similar nearby."
📸 Capture the Buttercross
The Buttercross is a photogenic spot, especially with the market stalls in the background. :camerawithflash:
☕ Nearby Cafes
Plenty of cafes surround the market place for a coffee break after exploring. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Buttercross
Market Place, Oakham
A historic, octagonal market cross, a picturesque centerpiece of Oakham's vibrant town square.
Oakham Market
Market Place, Oakham
Experience local life with a bustling market, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods on select days.
Historic Town Centre Walk
Oakham Town Centre
Enjoy a pleasant walk through Oakham's historic streets, with the Buttercross as a key landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Buttercross
The Buttercross is a photogenic spot, especially with the market stalls in the background. :camerawithflash:
☕ Nearby Cafes
Plenty of cafes surround the market place for a coffee break after exploring. :coffee:
🛍️ Market Day Finds
Check market days (Wed & Sat) for local produce and crafts. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Scenic Town Walk
Combine your visit with a walk around Oakham's historic town. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Buttercross
The Buttercross is a photogenic spot, especially with the market stalls in the background. :camerawithflash:
☕ Nearby Cafes
Plenty of cafes surround the market place for a coffee break after exploring. :coffee:
🛍️ Market Day Finds
Check market days (Wed & Sat) for local produce and crafts. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Scenic Town Walk
Combine your visit with a walk around Oakham's historic town. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Oakham Market Place and the Buttercross for its historic charm and central location. It's a picturesque spot that serves as a focal point for the town's lively market and surrounding amenities. While some find it a brief stop, its integration into a pleasant town walk is highly appreciated.
"Great historic cross in the town centre. Lots of cafes and similar nearby."
The Senior Cat
"Part of a very nice walk in the town."
Philip Hodgson
"Lovely old market place"
Stephanie Vann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oakham Market Place and Buttercross are centrally located in Oakham town center, easily accessible by car or public transport. Parking is available nearby, and the location is a short walk from Oakham train station.
Yes, there are several car parks within a short walking distance of the Market Place and Buttercross. Some street parking may also be available, but can be busy on market days.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Market Place and the Buttercross are public spaces and do not require tickets for entry or viewing. You can freely explore the area.
The Buttercross is an outdoor monument and is accessible at all times. However, the surrounding market stalls have specific operating hours, typically on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Oakham Market Place is a vibrant hub. You can admire the historic Buttercross, browse the market stalls on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and enjoy the atmosphere of the town center with its cafes and shops.
Absolutely! The Buttercross is a central landmark, perfect for a brief stop to take photos and appreciate its history as part of a wider town exploration.
The Buttercross is a historic market cross, serving as a traditional meeting point and a symbol of Oakham's market town heritage. It's a key feature of the town's historic center.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Market Place and surrounding streets in Oakham are lined with numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a variety of dining options.
On market days (Wednesdays and Saturdays), you can often find food stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, and street food.
📸 📸 Photography
The Buttercross itself is a prime subject. For wider shots, frame the Buttercross with the market stalls or the surrounding historic buildings. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light.
Yes, the Buttercross is a well-defined structure in an open area, making it easy to photograph. Consider capturing it from different angles and with varying backgrounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a market day to add an element of discovery for children. The Buttercross itself can be a fun landmark to point out and learn about. Keep in mind that it can get crowded on market days, so keeping a close eye on little ones is advisable.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Plan your visit around market days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) if you want to experience the full vibrancy of the town. Otherwise, a weekday visit offers a more tranquil experience to appreciate the Buttercross and the surrounding architecture at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Buttercross
Historically, market crosses were erected in town centers to signify market rights granted by royal charter. The Buttercross in Oakham likely served this purpose, facilitating trade and community gatherings for centuries. Today, it remains an iconic landmark, often photographed and admired for its picturesque setting within the bustling market square.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the Buttercross not just as a structure, but as a piece of Oakham's living history. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo opportunity and a reminder of the town's enduring heritage.
Experiencing Oakham Market
The market provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the community. It's a chance to find unique items, sample local delicacies, and experience the authentic atmosphere of a traditional English market town. Even if you're not looking to buy, the lively ambiance is a joy to soak in.
Pro-tip: Arrive earlier in the morning for the best selection and to experience the market at its most energetic. Afterwards, you can enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many cafes and eateries surrounding the Market Place, reflecting on your finds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit