Historic Georgian Town
Stamford is a beautiful Georgian town known for its historic buildings and copious shops and cafes. Dating back 1000 years, the town came into prominence in the 9th and 10th centuries and exudes character. Stamford is located on the River Welland, Lincolnshire, which runs behind the Stamford Junior School and it is at this point where it is believed that Boudicca crossed chasing the survivors of the Roman 9th Legion during their rebellion in AD61. Under the Saxons, the town grew in size and it is thanks to them that we owe the present name Stamford, deriving from its original name ‘Stony Ford’.
Great North Road
One of the most important transport links and Roman roads linking London to Lincoln and York in the north, the Great North Road (now superseded by the A1) used to run through the centre of Stamford. This road passes the historic coaching inn, the George, thought to be founded around 947AD. Like the School, the George has played a significant role in the town’s history, having hosted numerous famous guests including Charles I, William III, the King of Denmark (in 1768) and Sir Walter Scott – the Scottish writer and poet.
Burghley House
Amongst Stamford’s notable buildings there are five medieval parish churches, and close-by sits Burghley House that was founded between 1555 and 1587 by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. Burghley House is surrounded by Burghley Park that makes for interesting walks and runs; along with the Meadows which is parkland situated by the River Welland.
Picture Postcard Stamford
Today, the town plays host to filmmakers seeking to show the ‘picture-postcard’ vision of England including films such as Pride and Prejudice. In summer, the Stamford Shakespeare company hosts plays in a nearby open-air Theatre at Tolethorpe Hall. Each year, there is the town’s Mid-Lent Fun Fair, that has its origins in the original Stamford Fair and dates to Norman times.
Photo © Nat Bocking (cc-by-sa/2.0)
