Burghley Walk

A winter’s walk in Burghley Park to look foward to... with Ann Taylor

Being only 10 miles from Deeping means we are close enough to be able to enjoy Capability Brown’s wonderful Burghley Park. A backdrop to the magnificent Burghley House, which is now being used as a double for Windsor Castle in Neflix’ ‘The Crown’, a location recently relocated from one of our other Lincolnshire treasures, Belvoir Castle.

Park in the main car park, Pilsgate Lodge entrance, off Barnack Road. Take a moment to appreciate the magnificent trees and especially the clouds of seasonal mistletoe. Keep a look out for the herd of fallow deer, so dogs on leads. In the late 18th century Capability Brown, the most famous of all landscapers, was bought in to ‘update’ the park, by creating Serpentine Lake and planting many of the oaks you will see today on your walk.

Burghley House was built by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1557. The splendour of the place speaks for itself, especially when the sun catches the stunning Golden Gates.

From the car park, as you face the house, head right. The main tarmac path is especially good for little people’s bikes or scooters and for buggies. There are refreshments at The Orangery in the House, and having a cup of tea gives you a sneaky peek into some of the House’s secrets. Check it’s open before you go, so you can take a picnic if you need to! Heading towards Stamford, you soon have the option of diverting left to Lion Bridge over Serpentine Lake. Returning, you will eventually reach a cattle grid and imposing gates, passing some amazing oaks on your left and an avenue of trees on your right. Soon you will see the skyline of Stamford and its many churches on your right. You can count at least five on a clear day.

Bearing left after the gates, head for the Main West Gate and the quirky round Bottle Lodges, built in 1801 to celebrate the Earl of Exeter becoming the Marquess of Exeter. Behind them you can glimpse Ketton Cement works, fortunately in the distance. Then right, down picturesque St Martin’s, enjoying the Georgian street scene as it flows down the hill to the Welland, unchanged in centuries. In 5 minutes, look out for a left turn down Burghley Lane and re-enter the Park by the small quirky hand gate in the corner. Then it’s back to the car, knowing you have enjoyed one of England’s most magnificent Country Houses and perfect Georgian towns and all for free.

No matter how much we love where we live, our close neighbour Stamford is very special.