Peterborough, Stamford & Oakham: Private Historical Rail Tour
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Overview
The Private Historical Tour in Peterborough, Stamford, and Oakham offers a memorable day trip from London, showcasing the rich history and beauty of these charming English towns. This private tour starts just outside Peterborough Station, easily accessible from London.
The tour begins with a short walk to the Guildhall, a historic building dating back to 1671, which has served as a market and town hall. Today, visitors can still experience the vibrant atmosphere of a farmers market held regularly in the square. Next, explore the magnificent Peterborough Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a rich history. The tour includes the entrance fee to Peterborough Cathedral and one-way train tickets from Peterborough to Stamford and then to Oakham.
Travel by train to Stamford, a picturesque Georgian town celebrated for its beautiful stone buildings. Key sights include St John the Baptist Church, Town Meadows & River Welland, Stamford Castle Remains, Modern Cross Memorial, Stamford High Street, and Broad Street. Continue to Oakham to visit the unique Oakham Castle, set within old walls and a beautiful park. Admire All Saints Church, explore the Oakham Market Cross, and see the U.K. School, Oakham Marketplace, Hospital of St. John Evangelist and St. Anne, Oakham Town, and Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Statue. The tour is private and runs at a pace to suit the group's preferences. Return train tickets are excluded, costing around £7.




Highlights
Explore Historic Guildhall: See a historic building dating back to 1671, which has served as a market and town hall.
Visit Peterborough Cathedral: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and rich history of Peterborough Cathedral.
Discover Stamford's Charm: Walk through the beautiful Georgian town of Stamford, known for its stone buildings.
See Oakham Castle: Explore the unique Oakham Castle, set within old walls and a beautiful park.
Enjoy a Private Experience: Have a private tour that runs at the pace you like.
Travel by Rail: Travel to each destination by train, sit back, and enjoy the views.
Sentiment Analysis
Travelers generally loved the in-depth knowledge, personalized pace, and flexibility of this private historical tour, though clarity on return travel costs and time management could be improved.

Customers enjoyed the flexibility and personalized experience of the private tour.
The guide's knowledge and enthusiasm were highly appreciated.
Many reviewers loved the historical insights and stories shared during the tour.
The pacing and ability to customize the itinerary were praised.
Some travelers found the additional cost of return train tickets unexpected.
A few reviewers wished for more time at certain locations.
The Journey
Peterborough Cathedral
Step into the majestic Peterborough Cathedral, a site with Roman origins transformed into a monastic community in the 7th century. Though ravaged by Viking invasions, the current cathedral, built after the Norman conquest, stands as a testament to resilience and architectural grandeur. Explore the final resting place of two queens, including Katherine of Aragon, and marvel at the enduring legacy of this ancient and significant religious site.
Guildhall, Peterborough
Located in the heart of Cathedral Square, the Guildhall offers a glimpse into Peterborough's civic history. Built in 1671, it has served as a market and town hall. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the regular farmers' market and other events that bring life to this historic square, nestled beside a beautiful medieval church.
St John the Baptist Church
Discover the serene beauty of St John the Baptist Church. Rebuilt from the remnants of an older church, it was dedicated in 1407 by Abbot Genge. This historic church offers a peaceful retreat and a tangible connection to the area's medieval past, inviting visitors to reflect on centuries of worship and local history.
Stamford Town
Wander through Stamford, often hailed as England's most beautiful stone and Georgian town. Its picturesque streets and historic buildings have graced the screens of numerous films and TV shows. Immerse yourself in its timeless charm, where every corner reveals a postcard-perfect scene.
Town Meadows & River Welland
Enjoy the tranquility of the Town Meadows as you cross the River Welland. This scenic route offers a refreshing escape into nature, with lush greenery and peaceful waters providing a delightful contrast to the urban landscape. A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and appreciation of the natural beauty.
Stamford Castle Remains
Unearth the hidden remnants of Stamford Castle, where sections of the ancient town walls unexpectedly appear. These subtle reminders of the past evoke a sense of history and intrigue, inviting you to imagine the castle's former glory and strategic importance.
Modern Cross Memorial
Reflect at a modern cross memorial, a poignant reminder of a significant historical event. This understated monument provides a moment for contemplation and remembrance, offering a deeper understanding of the area's past.
Stamford High Street
Delight in the unique offerings of Stamford High Street and its surrounding lanes. Browse through a variety of independent shops and producers, each offering distinctive local goods. Don't miss the opportunity to sample artisanal cheeses and other delicacies, embracing the town's vibrant culinary scene.
Broad Street, Stamford
Stroll along the lovely Broad Street and admire its beautifully preserved buildings. Pay special attention to a magnificent structure still in active use, showcasing Stamford's blend of historical preservation and contemporary life. This street encapsulates the town's architectural heritage and enduring character.
Oakham Churches
Explore the architectural splendor of Oakham's numerous historic churches. Each church tells a unique story, but if you only visit one, choose the most captivating to experience the rich spiritual and artistic heritage of this charming town.
Beautiful Spots in Stamford
Discover one of Stamford's most picturesque spots, once home to a resident who profoundly impacted the world. This location offers a unique opportunity to connect with history and appreciate the legacy of a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on society.
Oakham Castle
Visit Oakham Castle, a remarkably well-preserved example of Norman architecture. Its great hall houses a collection of massive horseshoes, crafted by local blacksmiths to commemorate visits from royalty and other important figures, including King Charles III and Queen Elizabeth II. Recent restoration work allows easier exploration of the castle's boundaries, revealing its potential origins as part of a larger Anglo-Saxon fortification.
All Saints Church, Oakham
Explore the magnificent Grade 1 listed 13th-century All Saints Church, its spire visible for miles. Admire the exquisite architecture and discover local memorials that capture the area's history. As an active place of worship, it offers both spiritual solace and a deep connection to Oakham's community.
Oakham Market Cross
See the last remaining market cross in Oakham, nestled just off the picturesque market square. This historic landmark provides a tangible link to the town's past, evoking the bustling atmosphere of its medieval marketplace.
U.K School
Delve into the history of one of the UK's oldest and most esteemed schools. Discover its rich traditions, notable alumni, and enduring contributions to education and society. This institution's legacy is a testament to its commitment to excellence and innovation.
Oakham Marketplace
Savor the vibrant atmosphere of Oakham's marketplace, complete with its regular market, the beautiful old Buttercross, and a recently restored water pump. Be mindful of the original stocks, a playful reminder to be on your best behavior! This lively hub offers a taste of local life and a glimpse into the town's historic past.
Hospital of St. John Evangelist and St. Anne
Visit the medieval chapel and learn about the history of the old hospital of St. John Evangelist and St. Anne, founded in 1398, and its modern-day almshouses. Discover the enduring legacy of charitable care and community support that has shaped Oakham's identity for centuries.
Oakham Town
Explore the beautiful old streets and lanes of Oakham. See the old Buttermarket and the Stocks in the market Square. See the beautiful park and castle walls. Visit some of the towns well known foodie spots. Speaking of which visit the home of the man who inspired the home of little Tom Thumb and jumped out of a pie to surprise the King.
Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Statue, Oakham
Witness the unveiling of the first and only memorial statue to the late Queen Elizabeth II in Oakham. This landmark commemorates a significant moment in the town's history and offers a unique tribute to the beloved monarch. The charming corgis depicted in the statue add a touch of whimsy and warmth.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes entrance to Peterborough Cathedral and one-way train tickets from Peterborough to Stamford and then Oakham. It excludes return train fare, which costs approximately £7. The meeting point is outside Peterborough Station. Please note that this tour does not include pickup or dropoff to specific hotels.
Hot Tip
Many travelers recommend confirming the train schedules in advance to maximize the time spent at each location. Also, consider packing snacks and drinks to enjoy during the train rides between towns.