
Rutland County Museum
Discover Rutland's rich past, from Roman finds to rural life and local crime, at this free county museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid school holiday crowds

Rutland County Museum
Best Time
Avoid school holiday crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Rutland's rich past, from Roman finds to rural life and local crime, at this free county museum.
"A wonderful surprise, very much worth a visit!"

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously
Admission is free! Please consider leaving a donation to support this valuable local museum.
🚗 Card Payment Parking
Pay by card in the car park. It can get busy during school holidays, so arrive early.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rutland Dinosaur Discovery
Rutland Water Nature Reserve (nearby)
Marvel at the largest UK ichthyosaur fossil, a 10m sea predator discovered locally.

Rural Home Kitchen Exhibit
Main Exhibition Hall
Step back in time in a recreated rural kitchen, evoking nostalgia for many visitors.

Roman & Saxon Treasures
Mezzanine & Reception Area
Discover impressive Roman archaeological finds and intricate Saxon golden buckles.

Hangman's Gallows
Main Exhibition Hall
A chilling glimpse into local history with the display of a hangman's gallows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Impact
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously
Admission is free! Please consider leaving a donation to support this valuable local museum.
🚗 Card Payment Parking
Pay by card in the car park. It can get busy during school holidays, so arrive early.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
You can see a lot in an hour, but 2 hours allows for a more thorough exploration.
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The staff are incredibly helpful and provide wonderful insights into the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously
Admission is free! Please consider leaving a donation to support this valuable local museum.
🚗 Card Payment Parking
Pay by card in the car park. It can get busy during school holidays, so arrive early.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
You can see a lot in an hour, but 2 hours allows for a more thorough exploration.
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The staff are incredibly helpful and provide wonderful insights into the exhibits.
🎭 Check for Events
The museum hosts events like theatre performances and exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Rutland County Museum for its free admission and surprisingly diverse exhibits, ranging from Roman artifacts to a recreated rural kitchen and even a hangman's gallows. The helpful and knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted as a major asset, enhancing the visitor experience. While small, it's considered a valuable and informative local gem.
"Pay by card carpark available for visiting the museum. It was busy as it was the school holidays. Spent a hour visiting as there's plenty to see."
Paul King
"Wonderful surprise, visited as the castle was closed. Very much worth a visit"
Grant Schofield
"Small but Informative free museum."
Danny Cook
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rutland County Museum is located in Oakham, the county town of Rutland. Oakham is accessible by road, and the museum is centrally located within the town. Parking is available on-site and can be paid for by card.
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. Payment can be made by card. It's noted that the car park can become busy during school holidays.
Oakham is well-connected by road. For those traveling from further afield, train services are available to nearby stations, with onward travel by bus or taxi.
The museum is situated in Oakham, the county town, making it relatively easy to locate within the town center.
Absolutely! Oakham is a charming town, and the museum is a perfect addition to a day trip exploring Rutland's history and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Rutland County Museum is free! However, donations are very welcome and greatly appreciated to help maintain the museum and its collections.
Opening hours can vary, and it's always best to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information.
As admission is free, advance booking is generally not required for general visits. However, for special events, it's advisable to check for ticket availability.
Since the museum is free to enter, there are no specific discounts. However, donations are gratefully accepted from all visitors.
While entry is free, tickets for special events might be available at the door, but it's recommended to secure them in advance if possible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse range of exhibits covering archaeology, agriculture, and local crime history, including Roman finds, Saxon buckles, and a hangman's gallows.
Most visitors spend around an hour, but you could easily spend up to two hours exploring the collections in detail.
Yes, the museum offers a variety of exhibits that can be engaging for children, including historical artifacts and displays. Special exhibitions, like 'Space Toys', have also been popular.
The museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions, such as the 'Space Toys' exhibition or floral arrangement displays. It's worth checking their schedule.
While the dinosaur fossil was found at Rutland Water Nature Reserve, the museum showcases the rich natural and archaeological history of Rutland, connecting to such significant local discoveries.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have an on-site cafe. However, Oakham town center offers various cafes, pubs, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Information regarding bringing your own food is not readily available. It's best to consume food and drinks outside the exhibition areas. Oakham has lovely spots for picnics.
Oakham, the county town, provides a good selection of dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes and eateries, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Many pubs and cafes in Oakham are family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and menus suitable for children.
Yes, Oakham town center has various options for takeaway food, allowing you to enjoy a meal in a nearby park or back at your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in many museums, but it's always wise to check for specific signage or ask staff. Flash photography is usually prohibited.
The recreated rural kitchen, the hangman's gallows, and the displays of Roman and Saxon artifacts offer unique photographic subjects.
The Rutland Dinosaur fossil is located at Rutland Water Nature Reserve, not within the museum itself. Photography rules may vary at the reserve.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Natural light can be limited inside museums. The best time might depend on the specific lighting of the exhibits, but generally, any time the museum is open is suitable for non-flash photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your children's interest levels. The car park can get busy during school holidays, so arriving earlier in the day is a good strategy. Remember to encourage a small donation to support this valuable local resource.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make the most of your visit without breaking the bank, pack a picnic to enjoy in Oakham's public spaces. The museum staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights, offering a rich experience that rivals paid attractions. Your voluntary donation is the only cost, and it's well worth supporting.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the exhibits on agricultural history and local crime, which provide a broader context of Rutland's development. The recreated rural kitchen offers a tangible connection to domestic life through the ages. The staff's willingness to share extra information can significantly deepen your understanding and appreciation of the collections.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rutland Dinosaur: A Local Marvel
This discovery adds another layer to Rutland's appeal, showcasing that the county is not just about charming villages and historical buildings but also holds secrets from prehistoric times. It's a testament to the ongoing exploration and understanding of our planet's past, making the area even more fascinating for visitors interested in natural history.
Exploring Rutland's History: From Romans to Rural Life
Beyond domestic life, the museum doesn't shy away from the grittier aspects of history, featuring exhibits on local crime, including the chilling display of a hangman's gallows. This adds a darker, yet historically significant, dimension to the narrative of Rutland. The collection of Saxon golden buckles also offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and culture of early medieval settlers in the region.
With its diverse displays, the Rutland County Museum serves as a vital repository of local heritage. The free admission makes it an accessible way for everyone to learn about and appreciate the unique history of England's smallest county. The helpfulness of the staff further enhances the visitor experience, providing context and deeper insights into the artifacts on display.
Events and Community at the Museum
These events provide excellent opportunities for visitors to experience the museum in a dynamic setting and engage with local arts and culture. They also highlight the museum's role in supporting and promoting community activities within Rutland. Checking the museum's schedule before your visit is highly recommended to catch any special happenings.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit