PICTURE sandy stone houses and independent shops and you think of the Cotswolds right? Well, there is one town in the north of England that is just like this.
Located in Lincolnshire, Stamford is known for having lots of Georgian and medieval architecture .
But it “looks just like the Cotswolds” according to TikTok creator ‘getlostchris’.
Travel writer Tamara Hinson backed this up, adding: “Exploring the cobbled streets of Stamford, I feel like I’ve stumbled across one of the UK’s best-kept secrets.
“Why fork out huge sums for a getaway in a Cotswolds town when you can visit this stunning Lincolnshire lookalike for considerably less?”
Sir Walter Scott even claimed that the town was the “finest sight on the road between Edinburgh and London“.
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Stamford once had a thriving wool trade and in the Georgian era, the rise of travel along the Great North Road (now the A1).
And today, a number of famous spots dating back to these times are still there.
These include the George Hotel, which parts of date back 1,000 years and inside guests will find 45 rooms, a cosy bar and a Champagne Bar.
In fact, the town features over 600 listed buildings in total, most of which are 17th and 18th century limestone buildings.
There are also five churches in the town – the oldest of which, called All Saints Church, was even mentioned in the Domesday book.
And of course, Stamford has a lot of independent shops tucked down winding alleys.
For example, you could head to St Mary’s Street and St Mary’s Hill where you’ll find St Martins Antiques Centre with some great historical objects.
Alternatively, if you need to pick up a gift, so then head to Fairfax & Favor.
There is also a market with around 70 traders, which takes place each Friday.
Visitors should also head to Burghley House, which is set in Capability Brown parkland and features a stunning Elizabethan house, which was built between 1555 and 1587 for William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I.
Inside the house there are a number of impressive rooms, an impressive art collection and an Elizabethan-era kitchen, with tall ceilings and copper pans littered around the room.
The venue was also used as a scene location for the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film, starring Keira Knightley.
Tamara said: “Make sure to refuel in Burghley House’s Orangery, where the afternoon tea includes cakes garnished with flowers from the gardens.”
The estate also has a woodland adventure play area for visitors with children.
The best way to explore the town is simply by walking around its ancient streets on a guided tour.
You will learn about the destination’s Roman origins as well as some of the town’s fascinating architecture, including its ruined castle.
For something to eat, head to the Tobie Norris pub which dates back to 1280, with seven rooms across three floors.
The menu boasts a range of dishes including British pub classics and more modern dishes.
For example, you could have a beef burger for £19.95 or a game casserole with herb dumplings for £23.95.
There are a number of places to stay in the area as well, such as The Crown Hotel with rooms from £144.
If you are heading to the Cotswolds, you could visit the ‘world’s most beautiful village’ but it could soon limit tourists.
Plus, how the Cotswolds is turning into the English Hollywood – my top places to visit away from the crowds.