Burghley House
A grand 16th-century Elizabethan mansion with breathtaking Baroque interiors and vast Capability Brown parkland.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical candlelight tours
Burghley House
Best Time
Magical candlelight tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 16th-century Elizabethan mansion with breathtaking Baroque interiors and vast Capability Brown parkland.
"The most beautiful palace we have ever visited, truly enriching and magnificent."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the house and the vast parkland.
Check for events :calendar:
Special tours, markets, and the Burghley Horse Trials happen throughout the year.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Heaven Room
State Rooms
Marvel at the opulent Baroque ceiling paintings by Antonio Verrio, a true masterpiece of artistry.
+1
Elizabethan Kitchen
Ground Floor
Step back in time to explore the original, remarkably preserved 16th-century kitchen.
Capability Brown Parkland
Gardens and Park
Wander through vast, picturesque parkland with ancient trees and serene vistas.
Rosings Park (Pride & Prejudice)
Exterior and Grounds
Visit the iconic filming location for Lady Catherine de Bourgh's estate in the 2005 film.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Explore Beyond the House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the house and the vast parkland.
Check for events :calendar:
Special tours, markets, and the Burghley Horse Trials happen throughout the year.
Free park access :park:
Enjoy the extensive grounds and spot deer without an entry fee.
Photography tips :camera_with_flash:
Capture stunning interiors and exteriors, but be mindful of restrictions inside. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the house and the vast parkland.
Check for events :calendar:
Special tours, markets, and the Burghley Horse Trials happen throughout the year.
Free park access :park:
Enjoy the extensive grounds and spot deer without an entry fee.
Photography tips :camera_with_flash:
Capture stunning interiors and exteriors, but be mindful of restrictions inside. +1
Book 'Burghley by Twilight' :candle:
Experience the State Rooms illuminated by candlelight for a unique atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Burghley House for its magnificent architecture, stunning interiors, and beautiful parkland. Many highlight the impressive art collection and the historical significance of the estate. While the cost of entry for the house is noted by some, the free access to the parkland and the overall enriching experience are highly valued.
"The most beautiful palace we have ever visited. It is clear that the owners put great effort into ensuring visitors have access to a wealth of information and a truly enriching experience. The part open for sightseeing is absolutely magnificent – stunning ceiling paintings, the enchanting Heavenly Room, the impressive kitchen, and the elegant library hall.
From the windows, you can admire the garden, not accessible to visitors, yet captivating with its carefully and imaginatively trimmed shrubs. The park area is vast, with sections available for free walks as well as paid entry. One of the highlights was spotting a herd of deer behind the fence, including two rare white ones. Truly breathtaking!"
Monika Young
"Burghley House is really impressive and worth seeing. The building itself is huge and full of history, with amazing details inside and out. Walking through the rooms feels like stepping back in time, and there’s so much to look at you could easily spend hours there. The staff were friendly and happy to answer questions, which made the visit even better. Outside views of the house are just as stunning, especially if the weather is good. It’s the kind of place that makes you go “wow” when you first see it."
Andy
"A beautiful house well preserved and the art and paintings are incredible. However it cost £22 to go in to the house and you only see a small part of the house. Couldn't go up to the very top and missed alot of levels. The garden is nice to explore with all the waterfalls"
Christopher Wood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burghley House is easily accessible by car, with free parking available. If traveling by train, the nearest station is Stamford, which is a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the house.
Yes, there is ample free parking available on-site for visitors.
While direct public transport to the house is limited, you can take a train to Stamford and then arrange a taxi or enjoy a walk to reach Burghley House.
A 10-minute train ride from Peterborough to Stamford is recommended, followed by a short taxi or walk to Burghley House.
Access is generally straightforward, but it's always wise to check local traffic updates before your visit, especially during major events like the Burghley Horse Trials.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on which parts of the estate you wish to visit. The house and gardens have separate admission fees, and the parkland is often free to access. Check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, the extensive parkland surrounding Burghley House is often accessible for free, allowing you to enjoy the grounds and exterior views.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Burghley House website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for the house, gardens, and park.
For standard visits, booking in advance is often recommended but not always essential. However, for special events like 'Burghley by Twilight,' advance booking is highly advised.
Information on discounts for seniors, students, or group bookings can usually be found on the official Burghley House website. Family tickets may also be available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find magnificent State Rooms with stunning Baroque ceiling paintings, intricate wood carvings, tapestries, antique furniture, and a vast art collection. Highlights include the Heaven Room and the original Elizabethan kitchen.
Yes, Burghley House features beautiful gardens, including the Sculpture Garden and the interactive Garden of Surprises, offering a delightful mix of art and nature.
While the historical interiors are fascinating, the expansive parkland, gardens, and the 'Garden of Surprises' offer engaging elements for children.
Dogs are generally allowed in the parkland on a lead, but typically not inside the house or formal gardens. Always check the latest policy on their website.
To fully appreciate the house and gardens, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you wish to explore the extensive parkland, you could easily spend half a day or more.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted for personal use in most areas of the house, but flash photography is typically not allowed to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signage. +1
The Heaven Room, the grand facades of the house, and the sweeping vistas of the parkland offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is generally restricted at historic properties like Burghley House to protect the site and ensure visitor safety. It's best to inquire directly with the estate.
Filming for commercial purposes or media often requires special permission and may incur fees. Personal filming is usually allowed within guidelines.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for both interior shots and wider exterior views. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the grandeur of the State Rooms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during events like the Christmas market for added family entertainment.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. The free entry to the parkland makes it an accessible and enjoyable outing for families on a budget.🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Explore the original 16th-century kitchen Pay attention to the Capability Brown-designed parkland and the various architectural styles that have been added over centuries. The house's connection to Sir William Cecil, Lord Burghley, a key advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, adds another layer of historical significance.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1 The exterior architecture of the Elizabethan mansion, set against the backdrop of the parkland, is equally photogenic. Don't miss the chance to capture the Capability Brown landscape and the formal gardens. For a unique photographic experience, consider attending 'Burghley by Twilight' for atmospheric shots illuminated by candlelight.
Remember to check photography guidelines for interiors before your visit.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the State Rooms
+1Beyond the ceilings, the State Rooms are adorned with rich tapestries, intricate wood carvings, and opulent furniture. Each room tells a story of wealth, power, and the evolving tastes of its inhabitants. The Second George Room and the Library Hall are further examples of the house's lavish decoration, showcasing a blend of Elizabethan grandeur and later Baroque influences.
+1Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and detail of the interiors, noting how walking through these rooms feels like stepping back in time. The original 16th-century kitchen also offers a fascinating glimpse into the domestic workings of a grand Elizabethan household, providing a stark contrast to the opulence of the State Rooms.
Gardens and Parkland: A Landscape Masterpiece
Beyond the Capability Brown parkland, Burghley also features more formal garden areas. The Sculpture Garden offers a contemporary artistic experience amidst the historic setting, while the Garden of Surprises provides a fun, interactive element with water features and playful designs, making it a hit with families.
One of the most delightful aspects of the parkland is the opportunity to spot herds of deer, including rare white ones, adding a touch of wild beauty to the manicured landscape. This free-to-access area is a significant draw for visitors seeking a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
Burghley House: A Cinematic Star
The grandeur of the house and its imposing architecture make it a perfect backdrop for period dramas. Its Elizabethan style, combined with the later Baroque embellishments, offers a rich visual tapestry that directors can utilize to convey status and historical context.
Fans of the film often seek out specific locations within the estate that were featured in the movie, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their visit. The ability to walk through the same spaces where iconic scenes were filmed enhances the immersive experience for many visitors.
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