Stamford

Stamford is a traditional English rose of a town, elegantly built from honey coloured limestone and arranged around the River Welland. Stamford's many churches and traditional looking pubs have made this town a location scout's dream come true. It's been used in everything from BBC period dramas to The Da Vinci Code. The best places to stay in Stamford will appeal to foodies, families and anyone looking for a rural escape, be it an adventurous or relaxing one.

Stamford's appeal doesn't really come from any one headline attraction, this town is beautiful because of the sum of its parts and it's a really pretty place to stroll around.

Visitors who come to do this sort of strolling won't be disappointed. There are plenty of charming little cafes and eateries, boutiques, pubs and churches to browse on your meanderings.

There are a few spots especially worth visiting in Stamford though, there's the 15th Century William Browne Hospital and medieval almshouse. St. Mary's Church, with its wonky spire and Burghley House, built by Queen Elizabeth I's chief advisor on 810 acres which is still home to the same family. This is a rather fancy stately home, with pavilions, cupolas and belvederes. The grounds were designed by Capability Brown.

What not to miss:

• Visit the historic 15th Century William Browne Hospital and medieval almshouse.
• Spend an afternoon at Burghley house and explore the 810 acres of surrounding parkland and gardens.
• Wander through the pretty streets stopping at quaint cafes and pubs.
• Take walks in the Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve
• Cycle around Rutland Water.

The town is an ever popular destination and the best places to stay in Stamford will get booked up well ahead. We suggest you get organised and book early. Alternatively come midweek or during the quieter spring and autumn months.

For a slice of tradition

• The Bull & Swan is an ancient coaching inn with just seven rooms. The food is good and the rooms are more modern than you'd expect from the beautiful old facade. You are on the grounds of the Burghley Estate, so it's just a short stroll to Burghley House.

• Also on the Burghley Estate, The William Cecil is a refurbished county house with decor that blends quirkiness and splendour. The 27 rooms are all different, but the food is consistently good.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

• Fly to either either Stansted Airport, East Midlands Airport or Birmingham airport.
• Stamford is served by a single railway station to the South of the town with good connections across the UK.
• Best time to visit - Stamford is a year round destination with each season offering its own charm, however for the best chance at warm bright days travel in the summer months (May - September).
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

1. Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Stamford.
2. Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Lincolnshire.
3. Head just across the border to the best places to stay in Rutland.
4. Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.