Burghley House is a grand 16th-century English country house near Stamford, Lincolnshire. A prime example of an Elizabethan prodigy house, it has been continuously inhabited by the Cecil family and holds a Grade I listing.
The house’s exterior largely retains its Elizabethan design, while the interiors were remodeled before 1800. It opens to the public seasonally, showcasing richly furnished state apartments. The surrounding park, designed by Capability Brown, enhances its beauty.
Burghley House was constructed between 1555 and 1587 for Sir William Cecil, the 1st Baron Burghley, who served as Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. The house cost £21,000 and was inspired by the privy lodgings of Richmond Palace.
It has been the residence of Cecil’s descendants, the Earls, and later the Marquesses of Exeter. In 1961, ownership was transferred to a charitable trust established by the Cecil family.
Burghley House is a premier example of stonemasonry and proportion in 16th-century English Elizabethan architecture. It features baroque-style rooms adorned with intricate carvings by Grinling Gibbons.
The main part of the house comprises 35 major rooms on the ground and first floors, over 80 lesser rooms, and numerous halls, corridors, bathrooms, and service areas.
Significant alterations were made in the late 17th century and again in 1754. The 5th Earl of Burghley added arched windows on the south front, and Brownlow, the 9th Earl, hired Capability Brown to redesign the park and construct new structures.
In 1828, the 2nd Marquess commissioned architect J.P. Deering to further modify the house, enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The Garden of Surprises at Burghley House draws inspiration from Elizabethan-era interests in astrology and classical civilizations. Visitors can enjoy water features, including fountains and a rill leading to Neptune’s shell grotto, a moss house, a mirrored maze, and a longitudinal dial.
The Sculpture Garden is an open-air gallery featuring sculptures from over 30 artists, set amidst sweeping borders, wildflowers, and naturalistic plantings. Visitors can enjoy views across Capability Brown’s great lake and meander through the garden’s pathways.
Hide & Secrets, themed around William Cecil, offers engaging zones leading to the Hidden Towers, climbing walls, wobbly walkways, and lookout nests. It includes a dedicated area for younger children and is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wide pathways and accessible platforms.
Convenient Travel Tip: When planning your visit, consider using a Private Hire Taxi for the most convenient and stress-free travel. Starline Taxis in Stamford offers affordable prices, ensuring you can explore Burghley House freely without the hassle of parking or navigating public transport.
here are the opening times of Burghley House.
Closed from 24th November, reopening Saturday 15th March 2025.
Advance booking discount of 10% applies until midnight the day before your visit.
Advanced Ticket Price
| Category | Standard | Gift Aid |
| Adult | £18.00 | £19.80 |
| Child | £8.00 | £8.80 |
| Family | £48.00 | £52.80 |
On The Day Ticket Price
| Category | Standard | Gift Aid |
| Adult | £20.00 | £22.00 |
| Child | £9.00 | £9.90 |
| Family | £52.00 | £57.20 |
House, Gardens & Play Annual Pass
| Category | Price |
| Adult | £48.00 |
| Child (3-15 years) | £30.00 |
| Family (2 Adults, 3 Children) | £146.00 |
Gardens Annual Pass
| Category | Price |
| Adult | £28.00 |
| Child (3-15 years) | £24.00 |
| Family (2 Adults, 3 Children) | £98.00 |
Adventure Play Annual Pass
| Category | Price |
| Adult | £28.00 |
| Child (3-15 years) | £24.00 |
| Family (2 Adults, 3 Children) | £98.00 |
Visitors to Burghley House can enjoy a variety of dining and shopping experiences, making their visit even more memorable and one of the things to do in Stamford. Whether seeking a delicious meal, a quick snack, or unique gifts, Burghley House has something for everyone.
For the most convenient and stress-free travel to Burghley House, choose Starline Taxis in Stamford. Offering affordable prices and excellent service, Starline Taxis ensures you can explore Burghley House freely without the hassle of parking or navigating public transport. Book your ride with Starline Taxis today and enjoy a seamless travel experience.
FAQS
Burghley House is open daily (except Fridays) from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM until 3rd November 2024. The gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play area have varying hours, so please check the latest schedule before your visit.
Ticket prices vary. Advance tickets are £18 for adults and £8 for children. On-the-day tickets are £20 for adults and £9 for children. Family tickets and annual passes are also available.
Children can enjoy the Hide & Secrets Adventure Play area, themed around William Cecil. It features multi-level play, climbing walls, slides, and a dedicated toddler area.
Yes, a 10% discount applies to advance ticket bookings made online until midnight the day before your visit.
