The collection of horseshoes includes examples gifted by royalty, such as Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Elizabeth II.
Peerage tradition dictates that any Peer of the Realm visiting Oakham for the first time must forfeit a horseshoe to the Lord of the Manor.
The 12th-century corbels inside the hall represent some of the earliest examples of secular medieval sculpture in Britain.
The structure survived while the rest of the castle fortifications were dismantled following the English Civil War.
Horseshoes are traditionally hung with the ends pointing upward to catch good fortune.
The Great Hall was once used as a court of law, a function it held for over 800 years.
Modern horseshoes are often oversized and decorated to commemorate the status of the donor.
Oakham Castle features the best-preserved 12th-century Great Hall in England, constructed around 1180 by Walkelin de Ferrers. The building is renowned for its collection of over 200 ornamental horseshoes donated by peers of the realm, a tradition dating back centuries. The Great Hall remains a functioning space for civil ceremonies, including weddings and citizenship rites. The architecture displays transitional Norman to Early English Gothic styles, characterized by stone carvings of musicians and mythical beasts. The surrounding grounds contain a curtain wall remnant of the original 12th-century defensive structure. The site is managed by Rutland County Council and remains free to enter. The interior retains its original timber roof structure and 13th-century corbels depicting unique figures.
Capture the scale of the interior looking up at the high timber roof, framed by the horseshoe collection.
Look closely at the decorative corbels high on the walls, as they feature musicians and jesters.
Check the local council website before visiting, as the hall is occasionally closed for private weddings and ceremonies.
Walk the perimeter of the lawn to find remnants of the original moat and defensive walls.
Do not expect to see a full fortress, as only the Great Hall and partial defensive wall remain.
Occasionally closed for private events such as weddings and registry ceremonies.
Maintain a quiet volume as the hall is a functioning venue for civil ceremonies; photography is permitted but avoid interfering with events.
