Stamford is, for a town of its moderate size, well endowed
with sport, recreational and entertainment activities. It has, for
example, three nightclubs, an arts centre, more than a score of
pubs and a wide range of restaurants.
Set in a group of historic buildings, the ARTS
CENTRE and THEATRE
includes also a ballroom, bar and coffee shop, artists’ studios
and several function rooms. The Theatre was first opened in 1768
and, following restoration in 1976, is one of the few 18th century
playhouses still serving its original purpose. The Ballroom, too,
has been in use since the 18th century - for concerts and dances.
Today the entire complex offers a wealth of entertainment throughout
the year. The annual Gilbert and Sullivan productions are associated
with Sir Malcolm Sargent, the famous orchestral conductor, who was
a native of Stamford. He supported the Operatic Society and was
a frequent visitor to their productions.
The Stamford Shakespeare Company stages a season of plays during
the summer at the nearby Rutland Open Air Theatre at TOLETHORPE
HALL whilst another annual event - this one held
in Mid-Lent - is the town’s FUNFAIR which lasts for a week
and fills the streets and squares of the centre with stalls, amusements
and ‘all the fun of the fair’. Another annual event
is the STAMFORD FESTIVAL
which is held in July with exhibitions, musical and stage events
at various venues in the town.
SPORTS and other outdoor
activities include the riverside meadows and Burghley Park, which
is used for the nationally famous horse trials, the game fair and
for caravan rallies. In the town centre is the recreation ground
with tennis courts and a bowling green whilst Stamford also has
a golf club. Also available are established football, rugby and
cricket clubs and, on the Welland, excellent fly fishing and coarse
fishing facilities. There is also the town’s Leisure Pool
complete with ‘Flume’ and a ‘beach’.
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