Why go to Stamford?
On the horizon, Stamford’s tall towers and spires of churches emerge on the skyline, nestled in central rural England. As a historical, Georgian town, Stamford has it all, from a lively High Street featuring a lovely bookshop with period features, to a beautiful country park just five minutes' walk from the town centre.
The cobbled streets lead down to the main square, ‘Sheep Market’, which consequently leads to a large grassy area lined with picnic tables alongside the River Welland as it wends its way to The Wash. Your ears will be filled with quacks and gaggles from the ducks and the geese, which won’t turn down any crumbs left after a picnic.
Completed in 1587 by William Cecil, the majestic Burghley House is a must-see. The magnificent park surrounding the house is home to many fallow deer amid the trees, which include the beautiful Lebanon Cedar (Cedrus libani). When you fancy a break, head to the Orangery Café, where you can find delicious cakes and refreshments whilst overlooking the house gardens. For those with a passion for horses, the Burghley horse trials take place every summer during an entire weekend.
Stamford will keep you in awe while you are there but if you fall short of things to do, there are regular buses to Rutland Water (where you can see Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) – the first breeding pair in the UK), and there are also regular travel links (bus/train) to the quaint historical towns of Uppingham and Oakham that are nearby.
Where to stay in Stamford?
The George of Stamford offers 4 star accommodation in the centre of the town and there are a number of other hotels and B&Bs.
Where to eat
Enjoy a great hearty pub meal at The Golden Fleece on Sheep Market. It offers something for everyone and you won’t be disappointed.
