Things To Do
in Oakham
Oakham is a picturesque market town located in the county of Rutland in the East Midlands of England. It is known for its historic buildings, including the impressive Oakham Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Oakham also has a vibrant town center with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Oakham Castle, a stunning example of Norman architecture. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the history of this remarkable fortress.
Have lunch at a local café offering traditional British meals. After that, stroll through the charming streets of Oakham, visiting boutique shops and the Oakham Museum.
Dine at a cozy pub where you can sample local ales. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the town's picturesque park.
Begin your morning with a peaceful walk in the Oakham Country Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Bring your camera to capture the wildlife and tranquility.
Pack a picnic lunch and relax by the lake within the park. Later, visit the nearby Rutland Water for cycling or walking along the scenic routes.
Return to town for a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Wind down with a stroll along the water's edge to enjoy the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and heritage with historic buildings and landmarks.
- A friendly and tight-knit community atmosphere.
- Scenic countryside and natural beauty surrounding the area.
- Local markets and shops offering unique products and goods.
- Good transport links to larger cities for commuting.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Smaller range of entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for higher costs in housing relative to local amenities.
- Occasional issues with public transport frequency.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with a fair amount of rain.
Best Activities in Oakham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large reservoir offering a range of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, birdwatching, and water sports such as sailing and kayaking.
A scenic hiking route through the Welland Valley, featuring beautiful landscapes and opportunities to explore local wildlife.
Visit the historic Oakham Castle, where you can enjoy the surrounding parkland and gardens while learning about the history of the area.
A peaceful opportunity for kayaking or canoeing on the River Gwash, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
A designated area for birdwatching enthusiasts, home to numerous species, particularly during migration seasons.
A 23-mile cycling circuit around Rutland Water, providing stunning views and a chance to discover local flora and fauna.
A self-guided walking tour that takes you around Oakham's historical sites, parks, and views of the quaint town.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oakham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oakham
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic venue with stunning architecture and beautiful grounds, perfect for capturing medieval charm and grandeur.
One of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, offering panoramic views, serene landscapes, and beautiful sunsets.
A vibrant area showcasing charming buildings and local market activities, ideal for lively street photography.
A peaceful green space with scenic walking paths and lovely landscaped gardens, great for tranquil nature shots.
A picturesque route that provides beautiful country views and rural landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
An impressive church with stunning stained glass windows and traditional architecture, offering excellent indoor and outdoor photography opportunities.
Food in Oakham
Oakham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught trout and smoked fish from Rutland Water are culinary highlights. Visit local fishmongers and restaurants, such as Hambleton Fisheries and The Finch’s Arms, for a delicious taste.
Must-Try!
Don't miss the opportunity to sample the renowned Melton Mowbray pork pie, a local delicacy. Seek out The Rutland Pie Company or local markets for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oakham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Oakham Market for an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food offerings. Local vendors offer various cuisines, making it a perfect spot for culinary exploration.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oakham, as in the rest of the UK, politeness is highly valued. Always use 'please' and 'thank you' in conversations, and addressing people with Mr, Mrs, or Ms followed by their surname is a sign of respect, especially in formal situations.
It is customary to queue for services such as at bus stops, shops, and banks. Jumping ahead in line is considered rude, and individuals are expected to wait their turn patiently.
People in Oakham may value their personal space and privacy. It’s important to be mindful of this and avoid asking overly personal questions or engaging in intrusive conversations until you have established a closer relationship.
Safety
Tipping in Oakham
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oakham, as in much of the UK, tipping is generally discretionary. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10% to 15% if service is not included in the bill. In pubs, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated, typically rounding up to the nearest pound. However, tipping practices can vary based on personal preference and the quality of service received.
Payment methods in Oakham are diverse and align with broader practices in the UK. Most establishments accept cash and a range of card payments, including credit and debit cards. Contactless payments are widely accepted and growing in popularity, especially for small purchases. Additionally, mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common. It is advisable to check the payment options available before visiting a specific venue.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Oakham. The weather starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C to 16°C. The countryside blooms with flowers, making it a picturesque time for hiking and exploring local parks. Expect occasional rain, and be prepared for cool evenings.
Summer (June to August) brings the warmest temperatures, averaging between 15°C to 23°C. This is peak tourist season, with plenty of outdoor events, festivals, and local markets. The long daylight hours allow for extensive outdoor activities, though it can get crowded, especially in popular areas.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 18°C. The foliage changes to beautiful autumn colors, creating stunning landscapes. It’s an excellent time for photography and exploring local cider festivals. Be prepared for varying weather, including the possibility of rain.
Winter (December to February) in Oakham can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 7°C. Expect occasional snowfall and frosty mornings. This season is quieter, making it perfect for those who prefer fewer crowds. Winter festivities and Christmas markets add a charming touch to the town during this time.
Oakham at Night
Hiking in Oakham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic circular walk around the village of Cottesmore, featuring easy paths through fields and woodlands.
A large water reservoir offering various trails alongside stunning views of water and wildlife, perfect for hiking and bird-watching.
A peaceful hike around Eye Brook Reservoir with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.
A lovely nature reserve featuring walking paths around the pond, ideal for a relaxed hike with scenic wildlife.
A long-distance trail that travels through the picturesque Welland Valley, offering various hiking sections.
Aiports
How to reach Oakham by plane.
Located approximately 20 miles from Oakham, East Midlands Airport is the largest airport in the East Midlands region, serving a variety of international and domestic flights.
Situated around 50 miles from Oakham, Birmingham Airport is a major international airport that serves as a hub for numerous international carriers.
Approximately 70 miles away from Oakham, London Stansted Airport is one of the key airports serving the London area, with a wide range of international flights.
About 80 miles from Oakham, London Luton Airport is recognized for its numerous low-cost airlines and serves a significant number of international destinations.
Located around 20 miles from Oakham, it's a convenient option for travelers near the Nottingham area, offering various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly British, Irish, and other White backgrounds.
Includes Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian backgrounds.
Comprises individuals of African, Caribbean, and other Black backgrounds.
Includes those of mixed ethnic backgrounds, such as White and Asian, White and Black Caribbean, etc.
Includes ethnicities not specifically covered under the previous categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport played in Oakham, with local clubs and leagues.
Rugby is very popular in Oakham, with several rugby clubs and a strong community involvement.
Cricket has a long history in Oakham, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Tennis is enjoyed by many in Oakham, with several courts available for public use.
Athletics events and clubs are common, promoting running, jumping, and throwing activities.
Netball is popular among schools and clubs, with regular matches and tournaments.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity with numerous scenic routes around Oakham.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oakham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Oakham provide diverse and delicious vegetarian and vegan options. From innovative plant-based dishes to traditional favorites, visitors with these dietary preferences will find abundant choices.
Several restaurants and cafes in Oakham are attentive to gluten-free dining needs, offering dedicated menus or adaptable dishes to cater to individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.