Stamford, Lincolnshire — the stone town that quietly became one of England’s most desirable addresses

Stamford has a habit of appearing on “best places to live” lists, and for good reason. This compact Lincolnshire market town — population around 22,000 — packs an extraordinary amount of character into its honey-coloured limestone streets.

The property landscape

The average property price in Stamford sits at approximately £385,000, with Georgian townhouses in the centre commanding £500,000–£750,000 and modern family homes on the outskirts available from £280,000. Demand has increased 18% year-on-year, driven by remote workers relocating from London and Cambridge.

Lifestyle

The high street is almost entirely independent — a rarity in 2026. You’ll find proper butchers, a bookshop that’s been open for decades, and restaurants that would hold their own in any city. The Burghley House estate, just south of town, provides 1,400 acres of parkland on the doorstep.

Stamford’s schools consistently rank in the top 10% nationally, with the Stamford Endowed Schools offering exceptional education options. The town has three supermarkets, a leisure centre, and a twice-weekly market that’s been running since medieval times.

Transport

Stamford station connects to London King’s Cross in approximately 70 minutes via Peterborough. The A1 runs just west of town, and Peterborough (15 minutes by car) provides a major rail hub. East Midlands Airport is 60 minutes away.

What the data says

Search demand on open for offer for Stamford properties has grown 24% in the last six months. The most searched property types are 3–4 bed family homes and period conversions. Properties in PE9 postcodes typically receive their first offer within 21 days of listing — well below the national average of 34 days.