Burghley House
We were on our way to the North York Moors, when we decided to stop at Burghley House for a short break.
Well, we ended up spending a wonderful afternoon exploring this exquisite mansion and the parkland surrounding it.
Burghley House is a leading example of the great Elizabethan prodigy houses. It was built by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1587.
The house and gardens are open to the public on a seasonal basis and displays a circuit of grand state apartments.
But we prefer being outdoors!
The gardens and parkland that you see today at Burghley were largely designed in the 18th century by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
Particularly the private South Gardens are worth mentioning.
With its nineteenth century yew hedges, recently restored fountains, and David Austin roses, these gardens are just marvellous.
Walking
From the car park many trails venture into the parkland surrounding Burghley House.
We decided to head into the beautiful town of Stamford, from where we started the Four Counties walk.
This 6-mile circular walk takes you along the banks of the River Welland and up onto higher ground at Easton on the Hill. There are good views back over Stamford and to the Fens beyond.
From Stamford another Rural walk will take you northeast of the town.
This 5-mile circular walk ventures close to the river before returning alongside the dried bed of Stamford Canal.
The more experienced walker can take on the Danelaw Way.
The Danelaw Way is a 60-mile walk through some of the loveliest and most peaceful countryside in Lincolnshire.
It links the two ‘burghs’ of the ancient Viking Danelaw, Lincoln and Stamford.
