Stately seasonal sparkle as Burghley at Christmas returns

Lincolnshire’s Burghley House is set to host the region’s largest Christmas Fair as the courtyards and grounds around the Elizabethan house take on a festive feel for its seasonal shopping spectacular.

With the historic house as a stunning backdrop, the Burghley Christmas Fair returns 24-27 November – and this year there will be a new ticket available for late-night shopping on Friday 25.

Seasonal shoppers will be able to browse 130 stalls around the grounds, which will feature traditional chalets and heated marquees, along with an avenue of pagodas bedecked in Christmas decorations and lights.

Offering everything from luxury gifts to artisan food and drink, adding to the festive atmosphere will be a Victorian carousel, lit up for the season, as well as traditional music from local carol singers.

The Fair will be open from 9.30am to 4.30pm each day, and from 5.30pm to 9pm for late-night shopping on Friday 25 November. Tickets cost £6 adults, £3 children (£8 and £4 on the gate).

Meanwhile, musical merriment, in majestic settings, is also on offer at Burghley’s Christmas Carol Concerts.

On 11 December the House’s intimate family Chapel is the venue for traditional festive pieces performed by the Cantus Choir and string orchestra, with mulled wine and mince pies served in Burghley’s Tudor kitchen, while on 14 December, the concert venue is the oak-panelled Great Hall, with arrival drinks in The Orangery. Tickets for each event cost £30 per person, and numbers are limited, so must be pre-booked.

For more details, and to book tickets, visit www.burghley.co.uk or telephone 01780 752451.