We visit the picturesque market town of Stamford, widely regarded as one of the finest stone towns in England, with a variety of 17th and 18th-century stone buildings, secret alleyways peppered with alehouses and no fewer than five medieval parish churches. Stamford has formed the backdrop for the television costume drama Middlemarch and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
We continue to Oakham, the county town of Rutland. This pretty, traditional market town boasts many historic landmarks including a Norman castle, unusual stocks and a town pump beneath the Butter Cross as well as the renowned Oakham School, which dates back to 1584. There’s also an abundance of eateries and stylish shops to visit. Later, we enjoy a traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner with all the trimmings back at the hotel.