Temporary Changes to Burghley Parkland Access

This restriction 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 will provide access on all open days and is unaffected by the Parkland restrictions.

An alternative pedestrian route through the Parkland will be available to provide access between Burghley House and Stamford. The temporary route operates 7am to 8pm from Tuesday 4 to Monday 31 August and again from Tuesday 8 to Friday 18 September. The Parkland will fully reopen on Saturday 19 September.

Additionally, a section of the Hereward Way public footpath through Burghley Park will be closed during the event from 3 to 6 September. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety and security of attendees and competitors.

Martyn Johnson, Event Director of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, said: 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.