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The small rural market town of Oakham also serves as the official county town of Rutland, which lies far to the north of greater London in the midst of the pastoral countryside. Interestingly, Oakham rests on the shores of one of Britain's largest purpose-built lakes Rutland Water. Each and every holiday season, thousands of day-trippers and passing travellers alike visit Oakham in order to partake of the town's weekly market days and waterside activities.
Oakham Castle
Oakham is well steeped in history and contains several sites of historical interest such as the 12th century fortified manor house Oakham Castle, arguably one of the finest specimens of Norman architecture. Unfortunately, only portions of the castle have survived the centuries.
But nevertheless, visitors to this most cherished grade I listed building in Oakham are welcome to enjoy the well manicured green spaces which surround the castle. Equestrians will also marvel at the vast collection of horseshoes on display inside the remnants of the castle. More than 200 horseshoes represent the heritage of the lord of the manor and some specimens date to the 15th century.
Oakham Market and Rutland Water
Every Wednesday and Saturday, Oakham comes alive with visitors from across Rutland who travel to Oakham to participate in the weekly market. Oakham is also home to an old medieval buttercross that includes a well preserved example of a medieval stock. In fact, Oakham is only a handful of towns in Britain to have preserved one of these covered medieval market crosses.
Several other sites of interest rest within walking distance of the market place. A footpath from the market leads to the 14th century landmark by the name of All Saints Church, another grade I listed building in Oakham. The Rutland County Museum is famous for its guided, heritage trail, as well.
After a day out in the market, visit Rutland Water east of town centre and enjoy the goings-on during the summer. Be sure to try your hand at windsurfing, or simply relax, hire a boat and sail at your leisure.
Oakham Transportation
You can arrive in Oakham a number of ways. Mainly, visitors travel to Oakham from the greater London area by motoring north along the A1. After travelling beyond Peterborough in Rutland, keep watch for the A606 interchange and continue west as you bypass Rutland Water.
But to arrive in town centre proper from the north of Britain, you would do well to reach Nottingham and follow the A606 by way of Melton Mowbray which extends to the south-east. However, if you prefer to travel by rail, Oakham railway station lies along the Birmingham to Peterborough Line.
Oakham Places to Stay
If you choose to turn your day trip into an extended stay, you will find that Oakham is well provided with choice accommodations. Countryside cottages and bed and breakfasts are a popular choice near Rutland Water. A short distance off the high street, you will have plenty of hotels to choose from conveniently located a short distance from Oakham's attractions.
Accommodation in Oakham
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