The Buttercross and Stocks, A Window into Medieval Oakham
If you stand in the heart of Oakham’s Market Place, you are standing on ground that has been the center of local commerce and justice for over 700 years. The most iconic symbols of this long history are the Buttercross and the ancient Stocks that sit beneath its protective roof.
The Buttercross A Marketplace Landmark
The Buttercross is a picturesque, timber-framed structure dating back to the 16th century, though the stone octagonal base and central pillar are likely even older.
In the days before refrigeration, the stone "cross" served as a cool, shaded meeting point for farmers' wives to sell dairy products most notably butter, eggs, and poultry brought in from the surrounding Rutland countryside.
Supported by five heavy oak posts, its high-pitched roof provided essential shelter from the elements for both traders and their delicate goods.
The Oakham Stocks
Housed directly under the eaves of the Buttercross is a rarer and more somber piece of history, a set of wooden Stocks.
In medieval and Tudor times, the stocks were used for minor offenses such as public drunkenness, brawling, or "unseemly behavior." Offenders were locked by their ankles for hours or even days to face the jeers and projectiles of the passing public.
Most stocks in England have an even number of holes for pairs of legs. Oakham’s stocks are famous for having five holes. Local legend suggests they were specially made to accommodate a notorious local character with only one leg, or perhaps to hold two people plus a "spare" leg.
Today, the Buttercross remains the focal point of the town. While it no longer hosts dairy sellers or criminals, it serves as a favorite meeting spot and a popular subject for photographers and artists.
It stands as a reminder of Oakham’s enduring status as a Market Town, bridging the gap between the medieval past and the bustling modern market that still takes place surrounding it every Wednesday and Saturday.
The "Heritage Triangle" Walking Tour
Stop 1, The Buttercross & Stocks
Start at, The Market Place (LE15 6DT)
Look for the five-holed wooden stocks beneath the timber-framed roof.
This was the "Town Square" of medieval life. Imagine the smell of fresh butter being sold on the stone steps and the sound of locals jeering at an unlucky prisoner locked in the stocks.
Photo Op, Capture the contrast of the ancient oak beams against the bustling modern market stalls.
Stop 2, All Saints’ Church
The Route, From the Buttercross, walk 50 yards towards the tall spire.
The magnificent 14th-century "Broach Spire," one of the finest in the country.
This church has watched over Oakham for centuries. Inside, look for the intricate stone carvings on the pillars some are quite humorous and date back to the 1200s
Oakham School (The Old School House)
The Route, Walk past the church towards Church Passage.
The original school building (built in 1584), which sits directly behind the church.
Founded by Archdeacon Robert Johnson, this small stone building was the entire school for nearly 300 years. Today, Oakham School is one of the UK’s leading co-educational schools, but it all started in this single room.
Stop 4, Oakham Castle & The Great Hall
The Route, Follow the path from the Old School House back to the market place into the Castle grounds.
The massive earthwork banks (the remains of the outer walls) and the Norman Great Hall.
Go inside to see the world-famous collection of over 230 horseshoes. Don't forget to look for the giant shoe donated by King Edward IV in 1470.
The Finish Line Castle Cottage Cafe
Grab a coffee and a slice of homemade cake to reflect on your journey through Rutland’s history.
Tour Tips
Market Days, try to do this walk on a Wednesday or Saturday to see the Market Place in its full, traditional glory.
Accessibility, The route is flat and mostly paved, making it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
