Burghley House is, in my opinion, one of the most impressive stately homes in the country.
On entering the building via a converted barn, visitors are treated to a history of the house, recounted by the family themselves, projected onto the stone walls. From here you exit into a courtyard and then into the main part of the house through the enormous kitchen, which is decorated, believe it or not, with a moose head and turtle skulls.
The artwork throughout the house is stunning – especially the Heaven and Hell rooms
The outside is just as amazing as the inside: the Garden of Surprises lives up to its name, with mirror mazes, fountains and grottos all hidden from view until you get right up close. If the weather is nice and you have young children, be sure to take their swimsuits.
The sculpture garden is beautiful to stroll around, especially in the height of summer, and is also full of unexpected surprises such as the ice house. It’s definitely a place where you could pass a whole day.