The gardens and parkland that you see today at Burghley were largely designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown in the eighteenth century. Today, sweeping vistas down to the spires of Stamford with the backdrop of the House create the perfect canvas for open air classical concerts, wedding receptions, events or just a quiet stroll with the dog.

The park is open 365 days per year from 8am to 8pm or dusk if earlier, and is free admission to all (please note the park may be closed occasionally for events or deer management). Please note that during the build up to the Burghley Horse Trials access to the House and Gardens via the park will be restricted. On Tuesday 31st August and Wednesday 1st September access to the House will not be available via the park, please enter through the main visitor entrance on the Barnack Road following the brown tourism signs.  During the Trials from Thursday 2nd September to Sunday 5th September there will be no acess to the House and the Gardens which will remain closed. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes.

Dogs are allowed as long as they are kept on a lead to protect the deer herd. Please note dogs are restricted to the parkland and are not allowed in the Gardens.

The main visitor gardens at Burghley are the Gardens of Surprise and the Sculpture Garden. One admission ticket covers both gardens and they are open daily from 11am to 5pm from March to October. The Sculpture Garden remains open free of charge in the winter months. The South Gardens are the private family gardens, but do open in the month of April for the spectacular display of spring bulbs.