Temporary Changes to Parkland Access

Name: Burghley House
Price range: $

Parkland Access | 3 August to 18 September

We’re carrying out event preparations over the summer, and some access routes will be temporarily affected. The central access route through Burghley Parkland will be closed to pedestrians from Monday 3 August to Friday 18 September 2026. The restricted access is in place to ensure the safety of Park users during the set-up and take-down of the 2026 Defender Burghley Horse Trials. In addition, the Lower Parkland will be fully closed from 1 to 7 September. All affected areas will be clearly signposted.

Burghley House, Gardens, Adventure Play, and all visitor facilities will remain open as usual throughout this period, with the exception of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials event dates (Wednesday 2 to Sunday 6 September) when the site will be closed to visitors. The Main Visitor Entrance at Pilsgate Lodges on Barnack Road (what3words///bluffing.shadow.options) will provide access on all open days and is unaffected by the Parkland restrictions.

Alternative Pedestrian Route | 4 to 31 August and 8 to 18 September

An alternative pedestrian route will be in place to provide access through the Parkland. The temporary route operates 7am to 8pm from Tuesday 4 to Monday 31 August and Tuesday 8 to Friday 18 September.

Please be aware this route is mainly on grass with some areas of uneven terrain.

The Parkland will fully reopen on Saturday 19 September.

To keep everyone safe during the event build and breakdown period, and to meet Health and Safety requirements, access to some areas of Burghley Parkland will be restricted for pedestrians and unauthorised vehicles. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank local residents and visitors for their understanding during this time.

Martyn Johnson | Event Director, Defender Burghley Horse Trials

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