This Oakham and Stamford Private Tour explores two of the most beautiful little market towns in Britain. They’re only a few miles apart but which are entirely different in how they look and feel. We will spend around 3 hours in lovely Oakham before hopping 10 minutes on the train (or by car if you prefer) to Stamford.
Oakham is the county town of Rutland. Our smallest county with gorgeous countryside all around and with a well deserved reputation for its quality food and drink and artisan shops.
Perhaps the must see spot for many is Oakham Castle which is virtually unique.
Oakham Castle is known for being one of the best preserved examples of Norman architecture. Its great hall is home to massive horseshoes! Made by local blacksmiths, to celebrate visitations from royalty or peers of the realm) including King Charles III and Queen Elizabeth II. In fact Oakham has the first and only memorial statue to Queen Elizabeth II. Following recent restoration work it is now even easier to explore the old boundaries of the castle which may have been part of a much larger Anglo-Saxon burgh or fortification.
No tour of Oakham is complete without a visit to the beautiful market square which still has a market several days every week. Perhaps pride of place goes to the centuries old Buttercross complete. Wait until you see the original and rather unique stocks where miscreants would be secured. I think we all know a few people we’d like to pelt with old fruit or vegetables!
In the distance you can see the impressive Grade 1 listed 13th century All Saints Church which is almost at the centre of Oakham in more ways than one. Oakham is also home to a bustling independent High Street. Full of cafes, pubs, crafts as well as some amazing butchers, bakers etc. The market still runs as well as a farmers market too.
If you don’t try our local delicacies, particularly the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie and Stilton Cheese then it is almost a crime. Perhaps worth bearing in mind that Oakham has the only surviving Short Drop Gallows in the country!! Have no fear, you won’t end up in them as we still have to visit Stamford next.
Stamford is perhaps the finest Georgian era town in Britain. It’s said to be the most beautiful town on the old A1 Road between London and Edinburgh. You might not have been there before but you’ll likely recognise it from its many appearances onscreen.
Stamford’s narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards are home to all manner of speciality shops, fine jewellers and designer boutiques. It also has a Friday Market and buzzing High Street home to both Independent and more well known names.
We will explore the gorgeous streets and learn the history of this beautiful market town. Perhaps along the way popping in to one of the incredible churches, pubs or divine cafes that we will no doubt happen across.
Nearby is the incredible Burghley House which is another place we visit on several tours.
Meeting Time: 9-10am if staying locally or later if thats easier for you and you’re travelling from London/Nottingham etc.
Location: Oakham and Stamford
Duration of Tour: 6 hours Approx
Meeting Point: Oakham Railway Station for those arriving from London or elsewhere (about 40 minutes to Peterborough then 25 to Oakham) . Otherwise we can meet you at your hotel in Oakham or mutually convenient location. Obviously we can also meet at Peterborough station or Stamford Station and do the tour in reverse!
How to book Oakham and Stamford Private Walking Tour
Standard Adult Prices per person includes any entry fees and return train travel between Oakham and Stamford (child prices available upon request).
1 Adult = £100
2 Adults = £80
3 Adults = £60
4 Adults = £55
5 – 10 Adults = £50
To make a booking please contact us via email yeoldeenglandtours@gmail.com
Alternatively you can book by using the automated booking process with Viator by clicking below.
Please note we also run an Optional Extra to visit Rutland Water to see the rather lovely Normanton Church which is just 15 minutes or so away by car at £20 per person.
