All Saints Church, Oakham
Medieval marvel crowned by a soaring Gothic spire, where intricate stone carvings and Victorian craftsmanship create timeless beauty.
All Saints Church dominates Oakham's skyline with its distinctive 14th-century Decorated Gothic tower and spire, visible for miles across the Rutland countryside. This Grade I listed parish church blends 13th-century origins with stunning medieval carved capitals depicting biblical scenes, mythical creatures, and the iconic Green Man. Victorian restoration by Sir George Gilbert Scott preserved precious medieval features while adding ornate chancel work. Today it remains an active community hub hosting worship, concerts, bell-ringing, and cultural events.
A brief summary to All Saints Church : Oakham
- Church St, Oakham, Oakham, LE15 6AA, GB
- +441572724007
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a bright day to fully appreciate the stained-glass windows and the play of coloured light across the medieval stone. The interior transforms dramatically with natural illumination.
- Arrive before 10:30 am on Sunday mornings to hear the bell-ringing group perform their weekly practice—a living tradition that echoes through the tower.
- Take time to study the carved capitals in the nave closely. Each depicts distinct biblical scenes and creatures; a church guide or detailed photography reveals the masons' humour and artistry.
- Check the church website for concert and recital schedules. Hearing classical music in this acoustically rich space is an unforgettable experience.
- Bring binoculars during nesting season (spring and summer) for a chance to spot the peregrine falcons that nest on the tower—a rare wildlife encounter in an urban setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Oakham town centre is served by regular bus routes connecting to Leicester, Melton Mowbray, and surrounding villages. Journey times from Leicester are approximately 45–60 minutes. All Saints Church is located on Church Street in the town centre, a 5–10 minute walk from the main bus station. Service frequency varies by route; check local transport schedules for current timetables. Buses are free or low-cost for local journeys within Rutland.
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Train
Oakham railway station is on the Nottingham to Melton Mowbray line, approximately 0.8 km from All Saints Church. Journey times from Nottingham are roughly 30–40 minutes; from Leicester approximately 45–55 minutes. From the station, follow signs toward the town centre and Church Street. The walk is straightforward and takes about 10–15 minutes through residential streets. Train fares vary by operator and booking time; typical off-peak returns range from £8–15.
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Car
Oakham is located on the A606 road, approximately 25 km north-east of Leicester and 20 km south-west of Peterborough. The church is situated on Church Street in the town centre. Limited on-street parking is available nearby; several car parks serve the town centre within a 2–5 minute walk. Parking charges typically apply during daytime hours (approximately £1–2 per hour). The church is not accessible by car; visitors must park and walk the final distance.
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Walking
Oakham town centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly. From the market place and buttercross, All Saints Church is immediately visible and accessible on foot. The surrounding streets are flat and well-maintained. Walking from Oakham railway station takes approximately 10–15 minutes via Church Street. No special footwear is required for normal conditions, though the surrounding area can be wet during rainy periods.
All Saints Church : Oakham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about All Saints Church : Oakham
A Landmark Spire Across the Rutland Landscape
All Saints Church commands the Oakham skyline with one of Rutland's most recognizable features: a soaring 14th-century tower and spire in Decorated Gothic style that can be glimpsed from several miles across the rolling countryside. Built during the early 1400s, this magnificent structure rises 100 feet and represents the pinnacle of medieval ecclesiastical ambition. The church itself is constructed of local Barnack stone, creating warm, honey-coloured walls that glow in sunlight. Clustered around the market place with its buttercross, the church presides over a delightful jumble of historic inns, houses, and the famous Oakham School, anchoring the town's medieval character.Medieval Craftsmanship and Intricate Stone Carving
The interior reveals the church's true artistic treasure: an extraordinary series of intricately carved capitals adorning the tall, slender piers of the nave. These 14th-century carvings showcase the riotous imagination of medieval masons, depicting a menagerie of creatures, biblical narratives, and symbolic imagery. Visitors encounter Adam and Eve's expulsion from paradise, the Annunciation with the lily symbol of Mary, the Coronation of the Virgin, and the four beasts of the Apocalypse. Among these sacred scenes sits the enigmatic Green Man, his face framed by flowing foliage—a pre-Christian symbol of rebirth that medieval craftsmen boldly incorporated into Christian architecture. Corbels throughout the church display equally imaginative details, including baby birds nestled in a stone nest. The south doorway, dating from the early 13th century, represents the oldest surviving element, while the font—carved with intersecting arcades in late Norman style—anchors the church's earliest phase around 1180.Victorian Restoration and Sir George Gilbert Scott's Legacy
In 1857–1858, the renowned Victorian architect Sir George Gilbert Scott undertook a comprehensive restoration that would define the church's modern character. Scott, who oversaw more than 800 Gothic buildings and restorations across Britain, approached All Saints with sensitivity and ambition. He created the ornately stencilled and gilded chancel ceiling, installed high-quality woodwork parclose screens, renewed the floor, and removed 18th-century galleries and pews to restore sight lines. His east window, though initially controversial among parishioners who felt its design anachronistic, now stands as a testament to his refined Gothic Revival aesthetic. The church clock, installed in 1858, was one of the prototypes for Big Ben. Scott's interventions preserved precious medieval features while introducing Victorian craftsmanship that harmonizes with rather than overwhelms the original structure.Light, Space, and Perpendicular Grandeur
The church's interior surprises visitors with its brightness and airiness—a quality enhanced by extensive Perpendicular Gothic windows added during the 15th-century rebuilding. Large windows flood the nave with light, filtered through excellent stained-glass panels that cast coloured patterns across stone and wood. The north and south chapels contain treasured medieval monuments: a fine alabaster effigy of a priest in Eucharist vestments graces the north chapel, while the south chapel preserves an incised medieval monument and a cross-legged wooden effigy of a warrior in armour. The Lady Chapel of the south aisle, dating from the 1480s, exemplifies the Perpendicular style with its graceful tracery and east window. The pews are arranged facing each other along the north and south walls in the style of a college chapel—an unusual configuration that creates an intimate, collegiate atmosphere. Above the altar hangs a painting of the Last Supper from the school of Otto van Veen, adding Renaissance refinement to the medieval core.Living Community and Musical Heritage
All Saints remains vibrantly active, hosting regular Sunday services, weekday worship, and a full calendar of community activities. The church's musical tradition is particularly strong: a ring of eight bells cast by Gillett & Johnston in 1910, plus a priest's bell from 1840, are rung regularly by a dedicated bell-ringing group on Sunday mornings from 10:00 to 10:30 before the morning service. Practice nights occur on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9:00 pm, welcoming new ringers. A new organ with an oak case bearing the Rutland coat of arms was installed in 1995, anchoring a programme of concerts and recitals that transforms the spacious interior into a venue for classical music. Oakham School contributes free Wednesday lunchtime performances for the community, while various local clubs and groups meet throughout the week, making the church a genuine hub of civic and cultural life.Natural Wonders and Contemporary Significance
From 2020 onwards, a pair of peregrine falcons have nested on the church tower, delighting local birdwatchers and residents with their presence. In March 2024, All Saints celebrated the 1000th anniversary of the birth of Queen Edith, whose historical connection to Rutland deepened the church's significance in regional heritage. The Grade I listed status reflects both the intricate medieval craftsmanship and Scott's sensitive Victorian intervention, recognizing the church as a masterwork of English ecclesiastical architecture spanning nearly nine centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Rushton Triangular Lodge
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Welford Place
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23 St.Nicholas Pl
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Leicester Roman West Gate site
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Lynch Lodge
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Museum Development East Midlands
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Trinity Bridge
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Hamerton Zoo Park
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Old Trent Bridge
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Nottingham War Memorial Gardens
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Earl Shilton Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
Oakham Castle
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Wing Maze
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Explore Wing Maze, a rare medieval turf labyrinth in Rutland, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and tranquil countryside charm.
Normanton Church
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Burrough Hill - Iron Age Hillfort
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Explore Burrough Hill, a stunning Iron Age hillfort with rich archaeological finds and panoramic views near Melton Mowbray.
Burrough on the Hill
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Lyddington Bede House
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Explore a rare medieval bishop’s palace turned almshouse, rich with Tudor craftsmanship and centuries of English heritage in the charming village of Lyddington.
National Trust - Woolsthorpe Manor
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Explore the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton and discover the origins of gravity in this historic Lincolnshire manor with interactive science exhibits.
Kirby Hall
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Explore the majestic Elizabethan Kirby Hall, a stunning blend of Renaissance architecture and tranquil gardens in Northamptonshire.
Easton Walled Gardens
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Bowthorpe Oak
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Windmill Farm Park
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Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
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Sacrewell Farm
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Shady Lane Arboretum
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Belvoir Castle
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Essential places to dine
Hambleton Hall
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Six Bells
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OGGI Italian Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Restaurant Jericho
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Casa Romana Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
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Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
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Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
27.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
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Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
27.9 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
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Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
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Restaurant263
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Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
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Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Boutique Ltd
14.8 km
Discover Unique Boutique Ltd, a charming clothing shop offering personalized fashion finds in the historic market town of Melton Mowbray.
Valley Discount Store
25.5 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Nest
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Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.
St George's Shopping Park
26.7 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Prettiez
26.9 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Karma Corner Gifts
26.9 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
27.4 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
27.4 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Nim's Boutique ltd
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Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
The Source
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Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Just Fair Trade
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Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
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Very Bazaar Leicester
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Set
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wine Bar Stamford
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The Bertie Arms
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Nags Head
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The Old Horse
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The Loaded Dog
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The Marquis Wellington
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Babelas Continental Bar
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Brick & Beam
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The Exchange Bar
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Watson's Cocktail Bar
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Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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The King's Head
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The Distillery
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Inside No 9
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Duffy's Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tubes
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Helsinki
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Motto Nightclub
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The Fan Club
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Corah Works
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TRUTH Leicester
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Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
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Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Club Republic
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Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Basement
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Mosh
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The 2Funky Lounge
28.4 km
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Echo's Night Club
34.1 km
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The Met Lounge
34.7 km
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Angels Peterborough
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Experience lively nightlife and captivating stage performances at Angels Peterborough, the city’s vibrant nightclub and bar on Brook Street.
The Brickworks
41.4 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
