Oakham Travel Guide
Discover the beauty, culture, and outdoor adventures of Oakham with this comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Oakham
- List of Places to Visit in Oakham
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Oakham
- Best Things to Do in Oakham: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Oakham
- Food and Drink Scene of Oakham
- Where to Stay in Oakham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Oakham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Oakham
- Best Time to Visit Oakham
- Do’s and Don’ts of Oakham
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Oakham: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Oakham
- Where to Go Next from Oakham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Oakham
Oakham is a charming town located in Rutland, East Midlands, England, and is well known for its stunning architecture, beautiful countryside, and rich history. This town is perfect for those who want to explore the great outdoors and learn more about British history and culture.
List of Places to Visit in Oakham
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
*Oakham Castle: Built in the 12th century, the Oakham Castle is a popular tourist destination that has a great collection of artifacts and displays significant to the town’s history. *Rutland County Museum: This museum contains exhibits, various items, and displays telling the fascinating history of the town and its people.
Natural Attractions of Oakham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Rutland Water: A reservoir that offers a range of recreational activities including boating, fishing, and cycling. *Barnsdale Gardens: A collection of 38 themed gardens, each with its unique style and design, providing an excellent opportunity for garden and nature lover.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Oakham
The town has some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore the beautiful countryside and stunning views. You can choose from a wide range of picturesque trails including the Rutland Round, Viking Way, and Hereward Way.
Best Things to Do in Oakham: Activities and Tours
- Rutland Water Park: Provides different water-based activities as well as indoor adventures for families.
- Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre: A try falconry experience combined with educational talks and displays.
Week-Long Itinerary for Oakham
| Day | Places to Visit |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Rutland Water |
| Day 2 | Oakham Castle and Museum |
| Day 3 | Barnsdale Gardens |
| Day 4 | Rockingham Castle |
| Day 5 | Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre |
| Day 6 | Oakham Market and Town Center |
| Day 7 | Rutland Railway Museum and Locomotion |
Food and Drink Scene of Oakham
Must-Try Dishes
- Pork Pies: A local delicacy that can be found in most markets and shops.
- Rutland Bitter: A traditional beer from the town’s Oakham Ales brewery.
Local Beverages
- Oakham Ales: A range of beers brewed locally in the town
- Whissendine Windmill Bakery: A great place to have a coffee and cake, and enjoy delicious bread baked on-site.
Where to Stay in Oakham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hambleton Hall: A luxury hotel overlooking Rutland Water
- The Admiral Hornblower: A cozy guesthouse with beautifully designed rooms.
What to Buy in Oakham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Pork Pies: A great snack to take with you.
- Rutland Beer: A must-try local brew.
Local Culture and Customs of Oakham
Oakham is known for customs such as the “Horseshoe Ceremony” and “Bell Ringers”, providing an insight into the unique culture of the town.
Best Time to Visit Oakham
The best time to visit Oakham is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny.
Do’s and Don’ts of Oakham
Do:
- Try the local food and drink
- Explore the countryside and natural attractions
- Attend the town’s cultural events and celebrations
Don’t:
- Litter in public spaces
- Be disrespectful to locals and visitors
Safety and Health
Safety in Oakham
Oakham is a safe town for tourists but is advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and stay away from electronic scams.
Health in Oakham
The town provides a hospital, clinics, and a pharmacy in case of emergency.
Getting to Oakham: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Oakham
- East Midlands Airport: 44 miles away from Oakham
Bus Stations Near Oakham
- Oakham Bus Station: Serves the town and nearby villages and towns
Other Options
Taxi and private car services are also available.
How to Get Around in Oakham
The town is suitable for walking or cycling, but renting a car is also possible.
Where to Go Next from Oakham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Leicester: 23 miles away, provides excellent shopping destinations and cultural attractions.
- Stamford: 13 miles away, with a great collection of pubs, parks, and historic homes.
Conclusion
Oakham is the perfect destination for those looking for outdoor activities, historic sites, and beautiful scenic views. With its mild weather, welcoming locals, and multitude of attractions, Oakham is a travel experience not to be missed.
