Population: Stamford: 18,500. Deepings: 12,700.

Market Day: Stamford: Friday and Saturday.

Farmer’s Market: Stamford: Alternate Fridays.

What to See: Burghley House, Stamford Arts Centre, River Welland.

‘The Finest Scene between London and Edinburgh’ said Sir Walter Scott of this beautiful stone town in the south of Lincolnshire. Stamford has a fine selection of 17th and 18th century houses and medieval buildings that reflect its past – over 600 listed buildings, with six churches standing within a square mile. It is a pleasing town to while away a few hours, whether you just want to marvel at the honey-coloured architecture and dip into a cosy tea room for lunch or fancy some boutique and independent shopping.

Burghley House is the largest and grandest House of the first Elizabethan Age. It has been home to the Cecil family for over 400 years. The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials held at the house every year are one of the premier equestrian events and social events in the international sporting calendar.

Walk by the River Welland and into the Deepings, take a Town Trail, or use it as a base for longer walks – along the Torpel Way or off to the Jurassic Way. There’s an unusual fruit beer brewery, arts centre and beside a thriving market there is a large collection of shops, galleries and antiques, not forgetting great places to eat and drink! Finally, if you'd like to learn more about the history behind this fine town, visit Stamford Museum and step back in time.

Despite being the smallest county in England Rutland has a lot to offer you, hence the county motto ‘Multum In Parvo’ which means ‘Much in Little’. Julia Bradbury, who has travelled across the UK and some of the world, is a big fan of the county and believes that everyone can find “a bit of what you’re looking for in beautiful Rutland”.

If you enjoy the great outdoors, then you will find lots of thing to enjoy in this rural retreat. Outdoor sports are extremely well catered for with plenty of walking and cycling available, plus fishing, golfing and the huge choice of watersports that take place on Rutland Water.

Rutland is a great place to pursue an interest in your surroundings, be it a passion for wildlife and nature or an enthusiasm for gardening, you can find it here. There are two nature reserves around Rutland water, with many hides providing a great opportunity to spot a rare bird to two – or you can visit one of the many attractions inspired by the pleasure of gardens and shrubbery, the delightful Barnsdale Gardens is one not to be missed.

If you prefer to stay indoors there are plenty of places for you, including theatres, art galleries and unique shopping in our two Market Towns.

Rutland is very proud of the food and drink offering here, so if you like the reassurance of using locally produced, seasonal produce then you will be spoilt for choice. There are numerous pubs offering quality menus that change daily, not to mention the 2 Michelin starred eateries in the county!