Luxury self-catering accommodation in Oakham
The county town of Rutland, Oakham has all the ingredients of a busy working hub: a bustling weekly market, a dash of local history with its museum and prestigious school, and oodles of scenic country charm.
Visitors to Oakham get the best of both worlds: a busy town full of history, plus miles of rolling countryside to explore. There is plenty here to attract historians, or anyone stopping off after cavorting in the rural surrounds. Rutland County Museum has key archaeology and fine fossils. Every lucky schoolchild from well-known Oakham School will have popped in for a visit, as well as to the 12th century Norman great hall.
Oakham is a stone's throw from sparkly Rutland Water, Europe's largest man-made lake, a major Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are many hides and trails here for visiting bird-watchers who are keen to spot endangered species such as osprey and other native wildfowl. Take a wildlife walk, book onto a badger watch, learn about bird ringing, or just enjoy the scenery as it rolls by from your seat on an osprey or gin cruise – something for all tastes.
Dragonwood Boat House
A boutique boat house designed with romance in mind, Dragonwood Boat House is a traditional Victorian bolthole with a modern Italian twist. This lakeside abode near Oakham, Rutland offers luxury self-catering breaks in the most magical of settings.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,095 per week, £795 per short break
Pets: Sorry, no pets
Features: Guests have access to kayaks on the lakes
Harlequin House
Horninghold, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, UK
A babbling brook, blossoming orchards and vibrant interiors await at this indulgent retreat in the quaint village of Horninghold. At 120 years old, Harlequin House is anything but démodé; expect a bold, fun and ever-so inviting escape.
Sleeps: Up to 8 guests
From: £4,895 per week, £3,695 per short break
Pets: One well-behaved dog is welcome
Features: Electric car charging point and outdoor stove
