By Mrs O'Cleirigh (History Teacher)

On Thursday 27th April, the whole of Year 8 spent a day at Burghley House in Stamford, Lincolnshire learning about Tudor food, architecture, the career of William Cecil and how the Tudors used their homes to reflect their wealth and social status.

Built in the 16th Century, Burghley is the heart-felt legacy of William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I and the generations of his family who have lived here ever since, ensuring that this great House and Estate continues to thrive.

The year group were treated to a tour of the house which included seeing some beautiful neoclassical art. They also got a sense of how an estate like Burghley was almost a village in itself with its own dairy and brewhouse. Queen Victoria even spent four days at Burghley House and planted a tree which flourishes today.

Lily Lowe (Year 8) said: “The trip was splendid, and extremely interesting and thought provoking. The paintings were so beautiful and it was so amazing to be able to look around such an extraordinary building that was so unique and important to its time. I loved visiting Burghley House and I loved how much Tudors loved to show off their wealth.”

Olivia O’Connor (Year 8) added: “My favourite part of Burghley House was learning about the different people who came to obtain Burghley House. For example Ann and her husband spent two years around Europe where they would constantly buy and collect different furniture which would be shipped to Burghley House. We were told that they also made the rooms smaller as that was the fashion of the time. We learned that they were very influential to the progression of Burghley House.”