Stamford and the Great Cecil — 14th April 2026 — Mike Burton
Mike tells the fascinating story of Stamford, Burghley House and William Cecil, chief advisor to Queen Elizabeth 1st.
The Great Who? Come and find out as Mike Burton makes a return visit to tell the fascinating story of Stamford in Lincolnshire, adjacent to Rutland, with the magnificent Burghley House, possibly one of the largest and grandest surviving houses of the sixteenth century and a wonderful example of the great Elizabethan ‘prodigy’ houses, built to honour the Queen and to be the home of the dynasty founded by Lord William Cecil’s father, Sir. Richard Cecil.
Conceived by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I and built between 1555 and 1587, Burghley is a testament to the ambition and vision of the most powerful courtier of the first Elizabethan age.
In the 20th century it was the home of the 6th Marquess of Exeter, 1928 Olympic 400metre Hurdles Gold medallist. The wonderful gardens, landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown, are home to various concerts and events with a Sculpture Park area set aside.
Michael Burton was a journalist for 16 years, after which time he turned to teaching history for 27 years, including 20 years at Uppingham School. His specialist areas were American and English history medieval and modern, African history and imperialism. After he retired, Mike continued his interest in history by becoming a Guide at Rockingham Castle. He also is a public speaker with a range of historical topics.