Around the Town

A quiet, sunlit street curves through a historic village with stone houses, chimneys, and slate roofs. The scene is peaceful, with no people or cars, and a church spire rises in the background against a clear blue sky.

Stamford boasts many sports, recreational and entertainment activities. It has vibrant arts venues, plentiful pubs, extensive retail options and a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the riverside Meadows and Burghley House’s beautiful parkland are vibrant green spaces in the town. Just north of the town centre is the Recreation Ground with tennis courts, a skate park, an outdoor gym, a children’s playground and a delightful Victorian bandstand. There is also a golf club at Burghley Park, well-established sports clubs as well as swimming at the town’s leisure pool.

Art Venues

Set in a group of historic buildings, the Arts Centre includes a ballroom, a gallery bar, artists’ studios and several function rooms. The theatre was first opened in 1768 and following restoration in 1976, it is one of the few 18th century playhouses still serving its original purpose. The ballroom, too, has been in use since the 18th century for concerts and dances.

Today the entire complex offers a wealth of entertainment throughout the year, including live theatre, cinema, recitals and artistic workshops.

In addition, the Corn Exchange, situated on Broad Street, houses a theatre hosting a wide range of live music, comedy, theatrical productions and drama.

The Stamford Shakespeare Company stages a season of plays during the summer months at nearby Rutland open air theatre, Tolethorpe Hall, while the town’s Mid-Lent Fair, held every March, has its origins in the original Stamford Fair dating back to Norman times. It lasts for a week and fills the streets and squares of the town centre with stalls, amusements and traditional fairground attractions.