The Bull & Swan

The Burghley Estate in the lovely old market town of Stamford, Lincolnshire, is best-known for its annual horse trials. What it’s not known for is the venerable old order of Bedlam, an aristocratic drinking club that used to take place in this nice old pub in the centre of town, and whose erstwhile members give the pub’s seven comfortable guest rooms their names. Each room is different in size and layout, but they’re all very comfortable, furnished with the same curvy dark furniture in a style that’s a successful blend of traditional and contemporary, and with decent-sized en-suite bathrooms. Dogs are welcome, and we love the fact that they even have a room-service menu for pooches. Downstairs, the pub is cosy and serves a similar blend of traditional food that’s been beautifully updated and presented – everything from homemade Scotch eggs and doorstep sandwiches to expertly cooked steaks and fish and chips. As for Stamford, it’s one of our favourite towns in all England, a great place for wander, and Burghley House itself, just outside, is one of the finest Jacobean houses in the country. You’re also only a fifteen-minute drive from the large expanses of Rutland Water – perfect for sailing, cycling and walking.