THE SOKE OF OAKHAM
containing the parishes of Oakham; Belton; Braunston; Brooke; Clipsham; Egleton; Langham; Wardley
Until the 15th century Oakham Soke was included in Martinsley
Hundred. From an early date, however, it had its separate jurisdiction,
which arose no doubt on account of its connexion with the Saxon royal house,
as dower land of Saxon queens down to Edith, queen of Edward the Confessor. In 1428 the two hundreds were called the Hundred of Oakham
with Martinsley, but by 1684 the Soke had been separated from Martinsley
Hundred. The descent of the Soke has been traced under Oakham Barony
(q.v.), and Mr. Wilfred Henry Finch is now owner. The court of the Soke
was apparently held at the Castle.