St. Martin's Church was built in the 1480s, in the Perpendicular style, replacing an older church. The North Chapel houses the tombs of the Cecil family, including the monument to William Cecil, first Lord Burghley who was chancellor to Queen Elizabeth I and that of John Cecil, 5th Earl of Exeter.
Originally under the patronage of Peterborough Cathedral, the patronage passed to the nuns of St Michael's in Stamford, and at the dissolution to the Cecil family at Burghley House. The famous tomb of William Cecil, built in 1598, caused alterations at the east end, and the church was 'restored' at over the course of the nineteenth century, with a new nave roof, lowered floor, extended Burghley Chapel, as well as new oak pews, pulpit, bells and organ.
The rood screen was probably removed in the 1560s, adding further to the feeling of height and space in the building
There is a 42-page illustrated guide to the church:
A Guide to St Martin's Church, Stamford Baron
by Christopher Davies and Daniel Lezano
Published by St. Martin's PCC
(copies on sale at the church)
St Martin’s
In the 18th Century, it was a favoured stopping place for stage coaches, being a full day's journey from London or York. The southern approach from the A1 passes the grand gated entrance to Burghley Park and the 18th Century frontages in the High Street, St Martin’s, provide a wonderful approach to Stamford.
