The Rutland Horseshoe is a common sight around Oakham and the surrounding towns, used frequently as a door knocker on some of the traditional cottages, set into gates and ironwork, and pictured on flags and local memorabilia.

But where does the Rutland Horseshoe come from, and why?

Rutland has a long history of horses, used for farm work, hunting, travel and more. Now, owning horses and ponies is a popular hobby in the area, but very few are used for work.

There are a range of equestrian events that still take place locally, from the Burghley Horse Trials to the jousting, cross country and show events at Rockingham Castle.

Most present though is the image of the horseshoe, the emblem of Rutland.

Oakham Castle and the flag pole displaying the Rutland flag

The horseshoe is displayed on the Rutland flag, tips hung down so that the devil cannot make a nest within it. While some consider this bad luck, Rutland residents believe that the upside down horseshoe will allow luck to fall out and land on those beneath.

Oakham Castle is famous for its unusual collection of over 230 ornate ceremonial horseshoes donated by Peers of the Realm: Royalty and nobility such as Dukes, Marquis', Earls, Viscounts, Barons and Bishops.

The oldest surviving horseshoe on display was presented by Edward IV in 1470, after the battle at nearby Losecoat Field. The most recent horseshoes are those presented by the 6th Earl of Gainsborough at the Castle's re-opening, and HRH the Duchess of Cornwall's horseshoe, presented in 2014.

During the 2016 £2.1million investment from the Heritage Lottery Fund, each of the Castle's horseshoes has been carefully cleaned and catalogued.

The team at Oakham Castle said: "The exact origin of this custom is lost to the mists of time, but it continues to this day. Our oldest surviving horseshoe was given to the Castle by Edward IV in 1470. Every one of the horseshoes has a story for you to discover."

Find out more about Oakham Castle here.

Alternatively, check out our Oakham in history feature from last week where you can find out about All Saints' Church.

Blossom at All Saints' Church