Spot the best hotels near Burghley House

Burghley House is one of the grandest houses from the first Elizabethan age, standing as a massive and beautiful example of 16th-century architecture. You will find a treasure trove of fine art and history inside, all set within thousands of acres of parkland designed by 'Capability' Brown. It is a fantastic place to wander through grand rooms or enjoy a quiet stroll by the lake, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed day out in the countryside.

You will find one of the grandest examples of Elizabethan architecture set within a vast deer park just outside a charming stone town. It is a place where centuries of history meet incredible art collections, making it a perfect day out for anyone who enjoys exploring old English estates.

Planning your visit and getting around

The house and its gardens operate on a seasonal schedule, typically opening to the public from March to October. While you can explore the parkland for free throughout the year, an entry fee applies if you wish to see the historic rooms or the formal gardens. It is a good idea to check the official website for current opening times and ticket availability before you travel, as the estate occasionally closes for private events or equestrian trials.

The site is well-equipped for visitors with a large car park located only a short walk from the main entrance. For those with limited mobility, manual wheelchairs are available to borrow, and there is a lift providing access to the first floor of the house. Most of the paths through the gardens are gravel or grass, so comfortable shoes are a sensible choice for your walk.

What to see inside and out

The interior is famous for its "Heaven" and "Hell" ceilings, which are enormous wall-to-wall paintings that cover every inch of the surfaces of the grand staircases. You can wander through a series of State Rooms filled with rare Italian paintings, fine furniture, and delicate porcelain. Each room tells a story of the family that has lived here for over 400 years, offering a glimpse into a very grand way of life.

Outside, the Garden of Surprises is a highlight for many, featuring hidden water jets and fountains inspired by the original 16th-century designs. If you prefer something quieter, the Sculpture Garden offers a peaceful walk amongst modern artworks set in a woodland landscape. The surrounding parkland, designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, covers more than 2,000 acres and is home to a large herd of fallow deer.

A look back at the past

This great house was built by William Cecil, who was the Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. Construction took place between 1555 and 1587, resulting in a building that looks more like a palace than a family home. Its silhouette is unmistakable, defined by dozens of ornate chimneys and turrets that rise above the Lincolnshire countryside.

Over the centuries, the estate has remained in the same family, ensuring that the architecture and the vast collections have been remarkably well-preserved. It stands today as a testament to the power and influence of the Elizabethan court, surviving through the ages as one of the most complete examples of its kind in England.

Finding your way around Burghley House is easy, and there are plenty of options to stay around the area and to reach it. You can choose from various spots in and around the town of Stamford to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Best areas to stay in Stamford

The town of Stamford is the perfect place to base yourself, as it sits just about 1 mile from the main entrance of the estate. You will find a great mix of boutique inns and family-friendly bed and breakfasts set within historic limestone buildings. The town centre is easy to walk around and offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of independent shops and local spots to eat. Staying here means you are within a 15-minute walk of the parkland, making it very convenient for those who prefer not to drive.

Getting to the house

You can easily reach the estate from Stamford Railway Station, which is located roughly 1.5 miles away. A 10-minute taxi ride will get you to the front door, or you can enjoy a flat 20-minute walk through the town and into the green spaces. If you are arriving by car, the estate is well-signposted from the A1 and offers a large car park where a parking fee applies.

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