“If there is a more beautiful town in the whole of England, I have yet to see it”. These are the words of the 20th-century historian WG Hoskins, admiring the small town of Stamford. He described Stamford’s view from the water-meadows on a fine June evening as one of the finest sights in England, praising its grey limestone walls, towers, spires, and warm brown Collyweston slate roofs. In 2013, the Sunday Times declared it as ‘Britain’s top place to live’.
Located in Lincolnshire, Stamford grew where the Roman Ermine Street, linking London to York, crossed the River Welland. Recorded as Stanford in the 1086 Domesday Book, its name means ‘stony ford’. The town hosted several Parliaments in the Middle Ages and its early prosperity came from the wool trade. Thanks to its position half way between York and London on the Great North Road, Stamford had a second period of prosperity in the 18th and 19th centuries as a stopping point for stagecoaches.
Many of the former coaching inns survive until today, and tourists can identify them by their large doorways. The most famous is the George Hotel, dating from 1597, with its distinctive ‘gallows’ sign stretching across the street, built on the site of a medieval Knights of St John building.
In 1967, Stamford became England’s first designated conservation area, recognised for its exceptional architectural heritage. One of its gems is the Burghley House, situated on the very edge of Stamford. The Elizabethan mansion was built by the First Minister of Elizabeth I, William Cecil, later Lord Burghley. Built between 1555 and 1587, it has its original Tudor kitchen, 18 magnificent State Rooms and beautiful works of art. The town also has twelve intact medieval and Victorian churches.
Answering to the question ‘what is your favourite small town’ in the UK, one Redditor said: “Stamford in Lincolnshire is hands down one of the prettiest towns I’ve ever been in. It’s just like Cambridge in miniature but more hilly and with a huge Elizabethan mansion on the outskirts.”
Another user recommended: “Catch one of the town history tours; if they don’t match your visit dates, then explore as much of the town as you can as there’s some really interesting medieval and Georgian architecture. I’d recommend parking at Burghley House and walking to town from there – pop into St Martin’s church before crossing the river; be sure to walk up Barn Hill, pop your head into Brownes Hospital and enjoy the great cafes and pubs along the way. In terms of activities, see if there’s anything on at the Arts Centre or Corn Exchange.”
The market town has a strong community life. Stamford has long been a favourite location for filmmakers and TV productions, thanks to its remarkably well-preserved streets and historic architecture, which provide an authentic period backdrop. Its cultural life is equally vibrant, with a year-round programme of festivals and events celebrating art, music, literature, and antiques. Visitors can enjoy summer arts festivals, Christmas markets, or antique fairs, making Stamford a lively and engaging destination for residents and tourists alike.