OUR HISTORY
The William Cecil isn’t just a charming hotel on the edge of Stamford – it’s part of the story of one of England’s most iconic stately homes. Standing at the very gates of the Burghley Estate, our hotel is named after Lord William Cecil, chief advisor to Queen Elizabeth I and the visionary behind Burghley House. Staying with us means staying in the heart of history – quite literally.
Built on land that once formed part of the grand Burghley estate, The William Cecil continues a centuries-old tradition of hospitality and grandeur. It’s a place where past and present meet – and where every detail tells a story. Our bedrooms are a tribute to the many remarkable characters and cultural connections tied to Burghley’s long legacy. From Capability Brown, the legendary landscape gardener who sculpted the estate’s rolling parkland, to Antonio Verrio, the Italian painter behind the opulent murals inside the house, each room celebrates a figure who helped shape Burghley’s magic.
Two of our bedrooms take their name from Pride & Prejudice – a nod to the many film and TV productions shot in and around Burghley House. The estate’s cinematic scenery has drawn filmmakers from around the world, adding yet another layer to its cultural significance.
Our bistro, Milly’s, is named in honour of Mildred Cecil – William’s wife, and a formidable intellect in her own right. A gifted translator, scholar, and one of the most learned women of her time, Milly’s Bistro is a small tribute to her enduring legacy. Here, we serve seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a relaxed and elegant setting – a modern echo of the estate’s generosity and grandeur.
Today, The William Cecil remains closely linked to Burghley House. Many of our ingredients come from the estate itself, including venison and garden produce. Our team work hand in hand with the estate’s people, preserving its heritage while keeping things fresh and forward-thinking.
Whether you’re here for a celebration, a restful escape, or just a taste of something special, The William Cecil offers more than just a night away – it offers the rare chance to step into history, and wake up inside a story that’s still being written.
A Hotel Steeped in Burghley’s History