Burghley Park
Stamford, Lincs. PE9 3JY
01780 752451
www.burghley.co.uk
Built and designed by William Cecil in the 16th century, with parkland laid out by the famous Capability Brown in the 18th, today Burghley House is attractive not only to historians but also to families who wish to spend the day in pleasant surroundings. The gardens in particular have undergone continuous development, and with a range of events being held throughout the year there is something of interest for everyone in your family.
The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials
Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2LH
01780 752131
www.burghley-horse.co.uk
Burghley Horse Trials take place over four days each summer. Disciplines covered are Dressage, Cross-Country and Show Jumping, and entrants must compete in all three to obtain their overall score. The Horse Trials also have a strong social side, with a small “shopping village”, a range of bar and catering facilities, and for the more affluent, a luxury Members’ Enclosure.
Stamford Arts Centre
27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2DL
01780 763203
www.stamfordartscentre.com
Stamford Arts Centre is made up of three 18th century buildings and boasts a 166-seat theatre/cinema, a ballroom and other multipurpose rooms, a gallery displaying a varied programme of exhibitions, and a coffee shop. The Arts Centre is home to the Shoestring Theatre Company as well as two Youth Theatre groups, and it plays host to various non-theatrical local initiatives such as art classes, dance events, and craft workshops. The building also houses the local Tourist Information Centre.
Stamford Corn Exchange
Broad Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 1PX
01780 766455
www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk
The Corn Exchange was built in the 19th century, with a dual purpose of trade and entertainment. Today it is a 399-seat theatre, refurbished by volunteers (an ongoing project since 2000) and managed by the charitable organisation The Corn Exchange Theatre Company. A wide range of musical and theatrical performances take place at the Corn Exchange, with tickets available via their website.
Stamford Shakespeare Co
Tolethorpe Hall, Little Casterton. PE9 4BH
01780 756133
www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk
The Stamford Shakespeare Company perform during the summer months at the stunning Rutland Open Air Theatre. A permanent canopy protects the audience from the variable British weather while the natural surroundings of the glade add an extra dimension to the performance of Shakespeare’s plays. Tolethorpe Hall provides an elegant pre-performance restaurant and bar, and theatre-goers are also encouraged to make use of the picnic areas in the extensive gardens.
Churches
There are many churches in Stamford, providing an interesting aspect not only on religion but also on architecture throughout the town’s history. The newest is Christ Church, built in 1975. Some of the churches are so old that it is impossible to put an exact age on them, and several are ruined and no longer in use. However it is particularly worthwhile paying a visit to All Saints’, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and still a thriving congregational church today.
More detailed information can be found at www.stamfordchurches.co.uk.
Stamford Town Trails
The Town Trails, available from the Tourist Information Office, are an excellent way of getting to know the town. In addition to the main Town Trail, there are also Trails for particular areas of interest such as the Georgian period of the town, the Town Centre, and the Chimney Trail.