Oakham Castle

Description

Tucked away off the Market Place in Oakham, and backing onto Cutts Close Park, there is also a cafe on the grounds (check separate opening times).

Inside the Castle you can see a magnificent oak-timbered roof, leaded windows, and a stunning aristocratic display of over 240 gilded horseshoes, given to the Lord of the Manor by royalty and peers of the realm on their first visit to Oakham.

The oldest surviving horseshoe in the collection dates back to Edward IV’s visit in 1470 after his victory at the Battle of Losecoat Field.  More recently, horseshoes have been presented by the then Duchess of Cornwall (2014), now Queen Camila, and a lovely double display from the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh (2024), Prince Edward and Sophie.

Oakham Castle is the longest-running seat of justice in England and was first recorded being used as a court in 1229.  It is still used as a Crown Court, with proceedings being held in the castle every two years.

The hall is also decorated with a range of 12th century sculptures. Above the columns are six musicians, each playing a different instrument. They are made of local stone from Clipsham and although damaged, they are of superb quality. They are believed to have been carved by masons who had worked at Canterbury Cathedral.

The Castle is a popular place for Civil Weddings, meetings and special events. ADMISSION IS FREE. The Motte and Bailey Castle grounds with their Sensory Garden are also great to explore.

Castle Tours:

Guided tours can be pre-booked for group visits and delivered by our experienced guides for £3.50 per visitor. They include the interior and exterior of Oakham Castle, the key points and the best stories from its nearly 1,000 year history, its Victorian court and its extraordinary horseshoes.