A most beautiful town

Named one of the best places to live in Britain, Stamford is renowned for its award-winning independent shopping streets, historic arcades and local boutiques.

The picturesque stone market town of Stamford is famous for its preserved 17th and 18th-century Georgian architecture, featuring a plethora of listed buildings, narrow cobbled alleyways, and five medieval parish churches. 

Sir Walter Scott claimed that Stamford was “the finest sight on the road between Edinburgh and London” and historian WG Hoskins said: “If there is a more beautiful town in the whole of England, I have yet to see it.”

Top attractions include Burghley House, a magnificent Elizabethan stately home set in parkland laid out by Capability Brown; Browne’s Hospital, historic 15th-century almshouses surrounding a cloister garden; and Tolethorpe Hall, home to outdoor theatre productions by the Stamford Shakespeare Company.

The town is also a popular filming location for period dramas due to its picture-postcard look, with Pride and Prejudice, Middlemarch, The Buccaneers, The Da Vinci Code and The Crown all having been filmed here.

BY GEORGE, WHAT A TREAT
The Georgian era saw the advent of stagecoach travel along the Great North Road (now the A1).
Several former coaching inns with their large doorways survive, with none more famous than the George Hotel which dates from 1597, its unique ‘gallows’ sign spanning the entire road.

The George occupies the site of a medieval Knights of St John building. The historic inn is known for extensive interior decorations and a courtyard filled with Christmas trees during the winter season. 

Seasonal menus feature traditional festive dishes, roast options, and holiday-themed lunches or dinners.

With over 600 listed buildings in and around the town, largely 17th and 18th-century mellow limestone buildings with some older timber-framed buildings, Stamford can also lay claim to the finest collection of medieval churches (five) of any small town in England.

The ruin of St Leonard’s Priory is the town’s oldest building. Norman pillars and arches (circa 1090) survive with a west front of around 1150.

TAKE A TOUR
Whilst there is no official or widely recognised walking route in Stamford, The Stamford Town Guided Tours deliver an entertaining and informative narration of the architecture, characters and legends of one of the finest stone towns in England.

The tour brings alive the story of the town with tales of Georgian elegance, dubious politics and tragic romance.

Afterwards, you can enjoy the many pubs, restaurants or independent shops that make Stamford such a great place to visit.
The ‘Mayor’s Guides’ are all trained by and operate under the direction of Jill Collinge, one of the Blue Badge Guides for the region and the Official Town Tour Guide.

Tour dates run until 31st October on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11am, and Friday at 2pm. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday are by appointment.

Email thestamfordtownguidedtours@gmail.com for details. From November 2026 to March 2027, public tours will be Wednesdays only at 11am with private tours available at all other times.

BEASTLY BORING TOURS
If you fancy experiencing history with a twist, Beastly Boring Tours is offering the chance to step into the past at Burghley House for a family-friendly experience that will actually be anything but boring!

Led by costumed guides, these lively morning tours are packed with grisly stories, curious customs, and mischievous goings-on from Burghley’s rich history. These interactive tours are a fun way to learn about the fascinating William Cecil, hear tales of the characters who once lived at Burghley, and find out which famous visitors may – or may not – have stayed here.

Discover what people used to eat, who wore wooden dentures, and what secrets lie behind hidden doors. Each ticket includes a fun activity guidebook and all-day access to the house, gardens and Adventure Play. The experience is running during October half-term (26th-29th) and 31st October from 9.30am to 10.30am. Prices are £18 per person (adult or child).

WHAT’S ON AT BURGHLEY HOUSE?
Visit Burghley House on 1st November for the spooktacular Burghley Halloween Trail. Find the ghosts hiding around Burghley’s Sculpture Garden or get the family together to follow the ghoulish trail, collecting clues as you go.

Creep along hidden pathways to complete the trail sheet and be rewarded with a tasty treat. Running from 10am to 5pm, adult entry starts from £11, children from £8.50.

The Sculpture Garden is mostly accessible to wheelchair users, but be aware that some paths are gravel and some of the open areas are undulated without pathways.

Enjoy a peaceful and creative day at Burghley on 11th November, learning how to design, sketch and paint artwork inspired by winter wreaths and seasonal botanicals.

Led by artist Hannah Magrath, this workshop takes inspiration from the gardens and surrounding landscape at Burghley. Working from photographic reference, you will explore winter flora and foliage, including dried plants, fruits and natural textures.

Hannah will guide you through the process from planning your design and layout to building up layers of colours from your choice of media, including watercolour, ink and gouache. Expect demonstrations and one-to-one support throughout the day. Running from 9.30am to 3.30pm, the event is being held in the Cheke Room.

All materials are provided, and no previous experience is needed. Tickets cost £70.

Burghley’s popular Christmas Fair is being held from 26th-29th November, when the courtyards and grounds will be filled with festive chalets, pagodas and marquees bedecked in sparkling decorations for this annual event.

The region’s largest Christmas Fair will feature stalls offering a wide range of artisan and unique gifts. Be sure to take a break from the shopping to enjoy the delicious festive treats. From traditional mulled wine and indulgent hot chocolate to warming raclette and tempting sweet and savoury crêpes, there’s something to tantalise every taste bud.

A large Victorian carousel, lit up for the season, will add even more seasonal cheer. The Burghley Christmas Fair, which is run in association with the Angel Committee to raise funds for the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough, runs from 9.30am to 4pm (Thursday/Sunday) and 9.30am to 7.30pm (Friday/Saturday).

Prices are: Standard £15, Flexi £20, Child (3-15 years) Standard £5, Flexi £8. Standard parking is free, and Priority Parking is £10. Tickets must be booked in advance.

For more information visit burghley.co.uk/events/the-burghley-christmas-fair

MULTI-ARTS OPPORTUNITIES
Drawing on a rich heritage dating back to the 18th century, Stamford Arts Centre is a thriving multi-arts venue that provides the opportunity to experience and participate in a wide selection of art forms from theatre, cinema, music and poetry to sculpture, dance, painting and drawing.

With a café/tearoom available, the centre is hosting a range of events over the coming months. Quirky Houses in Watercolours with Karin Christensen will take place from 10am to 3.30pm on Sunday 1st November.

Enjoy a day of experimenting with colours and lines, using fine liners and artist-quality watercolours. With step-by-step instructions, you can add your own touch to your artwork and take home a unique painting, new ideas and inspiration, having built up an image, added details and personality, and created depth and perspective.

All artist quality materials are provided, and refreshments will be available throughout the day. Cost is £65.

Various dates are scheduled at Stamford Arts Centre for a Fused Glass Workshop, including Friday 6th November from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Saturday 7th November from 2pm to 4pm, and 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

Create a picture, arch or sun-catchers by cutting, grinding and layering coloured glass. Pieces will be left for firing and will usually be completed within a couple of weeks. These workshops are aimed at adults but are also suitable for young people aged 16 and over. All materials and instructions are included in the price, plus a hot drink.

For more information visit www.stamfordartscentre.com

PURE POETRY
Following the release of his new book, The Door-to-Door Poet, as well as a hit programme on BBC Radio 4, Rowan McCabe returns to the Stamford Arts Centre stage on Wednesday 4th November with Hard Knocks, a show of spoken word and comedy about community and connection.

Rowan likes making a nuisance of himself with poetry. In 2019 the world’s first Door-to-Door Poet travelled across England, knocking on strangers’ doors and writing bespoke verses for them, for free, on any subject of their choosing. Hard Knocks is a collection of new material that lifts the lid on some of the most funny and challenging moments of his unconventional career path.

FOOD AND DRINK
Having opened earlier this year, JK’s Lounge at 5 St Mary’s Street offers a relaxed atmosphere; a lounge bar where you can unwind and connect with friends.

The independently owned wine and cocktail bar is run by a husband-and-wife team and serves speciality coffees from 11am, handcrafted cocktails, quality wines, and a relaxed Mediterranean inspired experience.

Whether you’re dropping in for a late morning coffee, an afternoon glass of wine, or evening cocktails with friends, JK’s Lounge is a favourite spot for coffee lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a stylish, relaxed bar experience.
For more information visit jksloungestamford.com

Situated next to the Crown Hotel in the town centre, Paten & Co at 7 All Saints’ Place is a redesigned 18th-century building reflective of its merchant history but with a modern twist, offering a flavoursome menu, craft beers, select wines and specialist cocktails.

Split over three levels, the interior urban, industrial theme makes for a unique experience. Pop in on a Thursday from 12noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm for Burger Day and enjoy a sizzling meal.​

For more information visit kneadpubs.co.uk/paten-co

SUPPORTING OLDER PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES FOR OVER 20 YEARS
For more than two decades, The Evergreen Care Trust has been helping older people live happier, healthier and more connected lives.

We’re proud to have recently been named Social Enterprise of the Year at the Stamford Mercury Awards 2026, recognising our commitment to making a positive difference in our community.

Our wide range of services includes social activities, wellbeing support, befriending, fitness classes, advocacy, community transport, home support, clean teams, free meal deliveries and hand and nail care – all designed to reduce loneliness and help people stay independent for longer.

As a local charity, we rely on the support of our community to continue and grow our work. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time, becoming a fundraising champion, forming a partnership, making a donation, or sponsoring an event, we’d love to hear from you!

Together, we can ensure more older people feel valued, supported and connected.

Find out more about our services and volunteering at www.evergreencare.org.uk or call 01780 765900.

WINTER WARMTH AND FESTIVE FEASTING AT ORBIS STAMFORD
On all Saints in the heart of Stamford, Orbis has welcomed the colder months with a brand-new winter menu. It’s full of comforting, generous dishes made for long lunches and cosy evenings with friends, and the perfect excuse to come in from the cold.

From 1st November, the season gets a little more sparkle with the arrival of the Festive Feast. It’s a sharing banquet for groups of 10 to 20, served course by course to the table, with vegan alternatives available on request.

Planning something bigger? Make Orbis your own. Private hire is available for 20 to 50 guests, with half a bottle of wine per person included, so all that’s left to do is raise a glass.

Festive dates go quickly, so book early at orbisstamford.co.uk

STYLE YOUR HOME WITH A DREAM FIREPLACE
With a reputation for creating distinctive fireplaces, the expert team at Classic Fireplaces can help you select the perfect bespoke design to suit any home.

Based in Market Deeping, and with more than 40 years’ experience, Classic Fireplaces prides itself on delivering individual quality designs, craftsmanship and exceptional manufacturing.

This well-established family-run business designs, manufactures and installs a unique range of high quality stone, wood or marble fireplaces, together with a large range of gas fires, electric fires or stoves, which has earned them an unrivalled reputation for creating distinctive fireplaces to enhance every home.

“From our own workshop, skilled stonemasons create beautiful fireplaces in natural stone and marble, while also offering exceptional flexibility with size, material and design,” explains Emma Roberts, who alongside her brother Tim has helped run the business since it was first founded by their father Terry Roberts in 1986.

“Customer service is at the heart of everything we do and we aim to make the process of choosing and installing a new fire as seamless as possible by delivering outstanding service, together with helpful and clear communications and professional advice, so that everything feels straightforward and stress-free.”

Classic Fireplaces produces every fireplace from scratch and its bespoke manufacturing process ensures the materials and specification are met to the highest standard.

“Customers can visit our Market Deeping showroom to explore our extensive collection of competitively priced fireplaces, fires and stoves, view different stones and marbles and receive knowledgeable advice on the options most suited to their home.

“Each fireplace is carefully crafted to bring elegance and warmth to your home, whether you prefer classic charm or modern sophistication. With a wide range of styles to choose from, our fireplaces are designed to complement any interior, bringing together your own personality and ideas.”

Installation and care
Alongside its handcrafted fireplaces, Classic Fireplaces offers an extensive selection of heating solutions for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

“Our range includes wood burning and multi-fuel stoves, high-efficiency gas fires, electric fires and contemporary media walls with products selected from leading manufacturers for their performance, quality and design.”

The friendly and knowledgeable team, who have earned recognition for their “can do” attitude, provide a complete service from initial design and home survey, to manufacture and installation by their own dedicated Gas Safe and HETAS-registered engineers.

An initial home visit by the team includes a detailed survey which ensures that each fireplace and appliance is suited to the property, taking into consideration both design and technical requirements.

“Our team of experienced fitters, who always take great pride in their work, will also ensure the installation process is seamless and stress-free, while also tidying up any mess along the way. Customers can rest easy knowing that afterwards we’re also on hand to offer tips and advice on looking after your new fire or stove.

“We look forward to welcoming you to our showroom where you can enjoy making the most of friendly expert advice, quality designs and exceptional craftsmanship, all under one roof!”

For more information visit www.classicfireplaces.co.uk

ENJOY EVENING ENTERTAINMENT AT TOLETHORPE HALL
Tucked away in the beautiful countryside of Rutland, Tolethorpe Hall offers a truly magical experience for theatre lovers of all ages.

Surrounded by lush greenery and open skies, it is the perfect setting for an unforgettable summer evening.

The 2027 season (Wednesday 9th June– Saturday 28th August) promises an exciting selection of performances: E Nesbit’s much-loved The Railway Children adapted for the stage by Mike Kenny, the romantic comedy Shakespeare in Love by Lee Hall, Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, and Shakespeare’s delightful Much Ado About Nothing.

With Stamford Shakespeare Company’s talented amateur performers and a stunning natural backdrop, every show brings the stage to life with the bonus of an all-weather state-of-the-art canopy to protect the audience.

Arrive early and make the most of the picnic area, where you can relax before the performance.

There is also a well-stocked bar and delicious ice creams are available during the interval.

Tickets: £18-£26, gift vouchers also available in any multiple of £10.

For more information visit www.tolethorpe.co.uk

DISCOVER THE RUG STUDIO’S SERVICES AND LOCATIONS
The Rug Studio head office is open for customers to see and learn from owner Rachel Bassill, who after 33 years in the trade loves to share her extensive knowledge.

Based in the Stamford studio, Rachel loves to help solve clients’ briefs, from designing, making or sourcing to selling, restoring or conserving.

Rachel also showcases stock with a pitch in St Martins Antiques Centre in Stamford, as well as a small space in London, and via decorative antique websites. Pop in to see the extensive collection of rugs, kilims and textiles.

Many pieces are pre-restoration, but this should not deter you as Rachel is a skilled restorer and can advise and discuss any work you wish to have carried out. The studio features antique, contemporary, modern traditional rugs and offers a bespoke service.

Discuss your requirements for cleaning, restoration or production of your rug.

From October, The Rug Studio is open Tues 10am-1pm, Thursday and Friday 10am-4.30pm and Saturday 10am-1pm or by appointment. Please confirm when travelling a distance the studio is open. 

LANES FINE JEWELLERY – A PASSION FOR BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY
Lanes Fine Jewellery combines carefully selected diamonds, exceptional gemstones and individual craftsmanship to create jewellery of lasting beauty.

The family-run jeweller is known for its carefully curated collection of fine jewellery, combining enduring elegance with distinctive contemporary design.

From elegant diamond necklaces and bracelets, to gemstone earrings, rings and pendants, each piece is made with care and designed to be enjoyed for many years.

While grading reports provide valuable information, selecting a diamond is about more than its specifications. Each stone is chosen for its individual beauty, brilliance and proportions.

It is not simply a case of choosing a diamond because it meets a specification on paper. What matters is how beautiful it actually looks.

Alongside diamonds, the collection includes coloured gemstones such as emeralds and sapphires, set in elegant, classic designs that allow the natural beauty of the stones to take centre stage.

Bespoke jewellery is also an important part of what Lanes Fine Jewellery does. Whether an engagement ring, an anniversary gift or a completely individual commission, each bespoke piece begins with the client’s own ideas.

Existing jewellery can also be remodelled, giving much-loved stones or sentimental pieces a new lease of life while keeping their history and meaning.

Engagement rings and wedding bands remain an important part of the business, but the collection extends far beyond bridal jewellery. There are pieces for birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions and quite simply for those times when someone finds a piece they fall in love with.

Repairs, alterations and professional valuations are also carried out, meaning clients can return to Lanes Fine Jewellery for the ongoing care of pieces they already own.

Personalised customer experience
Clients are welcomed into a relaxed and considered environment, where time is taken to understand their individual preferences, talking through different designs, gemstones and precious metals, to help each client find something that feels right for them.

From its Stamford boutique, Lanes Fine Jewellery welcomes clients from across Lincolnshire and Rutland as well as much further afield. The warm and knowledgeable team is always on hand to offer friendly guidance and looks forward to welcoming clients through the door.

As autumn moves towards the festive season, the collection offers plenty of inspiration for thoughtful gifts, from classic diamond jewellery that can be worn every day, to beautiful coloured gemstones and more unusual one-off pieces.

Whether selecting a meaningful gift, celebrating a special occasion or commissioning something entirely individual, clients can expect thoughtful guidance, expert knowledge and a genuinely personal experience at Lanes Fine Jewellery.

Lanes Fine Jewellery, Stamford, 01780 238 290, LanesJewellers.com

Photographs: Mick Fox

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