Stamford is a picturesque market town, best known for its beautiful Georgian architecture and bustling town centre. Situated on the River Welland in south west Lincolnshire, Stamford is around 55 miles from the city of Lincoln.

The town lies just north-west of the Cambridgeshire border, and the county of Northamptonshire is also within walking distance. In 2023, the Telegraph named Stamford’s High Street as one of the best in the country. The town is home to some fantastic independent shops, as well as a wide range of well-known retailers. There is a bustling street market on Friday and Saturdays, as well as a Farmers’ Market twice a month. 

Stamford also has a thriving food and drink scene. The town is home to an excellent variety of independent cafes, pubs and restaurants, the majority of which showcase local, seasonal produce.

The History of Stamford

Lincolnshire was occupied by the Romans for over three centuries. Forts were built across the county, including one at Stamford.

Originally known as Stony Ford, the settlement here was ideally located close to the River Welland and Ermine Street. One of the most important Roman roads in England, Ermine Street ran from London to York, via Stamford, Lincoln and Winteringham.

Much of Stamford is built on Middle Jurassic Lincolnshire limestone, as well as mudstone and sandstone. Under the Saxons, the community grew in size, and was considered to be important enough to be granted its own mint in 972.

In the 11th century, Stamford was invaded by the Normans, who took military control of the town. Shortly after occupying the area, the Normans built a castle on the banks of the River Welland - the remains of which can still be seen today.

Under Norman occupation, trade and crafts in Stamford thrived and by the 12th century, the local cloth was known for its quality throughout Europe. Pottery was also made here; the first glazed ware to be made in England since Roman times was produced in Stamford.

When the wool and broadcloth industry in England declined in the 1500s, Stamford’s once thriving industries fell into decline and the town’s population reduced considerably. It was around this time that local man, William Cecil, was named secretary of state to Queen Elizabeth I. William went on to build a palatial mansion just outside Stamford for his mother - known as Burghley House.

After the civil war, improvements were made to the roads around Stamford, and the river was made navigable again, increasing trade in the town. As everyone travelling north passed through Stamford, businesses began to thrive here. The town started to attract more prosperous professionals – many of which are responsible for building the beautiful Georgian houses Stamford is now famed for.