The Battle Proms returned to a stately home in style as picnickers celebrated British pride.
The lively event at Burghley House near Stamford on Saturday (July 13) included a flypast from the first Spitfire to down an enemy aircraft on D-Day and began with a display from the Worcestershire Cavalry showcasing cavalry from medieval and modern history, in their second ever Burghley House performance.
The Red Devils parachute display team then produced an impressive freefall spectacle above the concert grounds, before a musical programme with Battle Proms veterans Lizzie and Abi alongside their live band, the Battle Proms Belles.
The concert was much-enjoyed as people danced together. Photo: Chris Lowndes
They energised the patriotic crowd before the evening gun salute announced the New English Orchestra, conducted by Douglas Coombes MBE.
After Elgar’s Nimrod announced the Spitfire’s arrival, the orchestra played a selection of classics such as Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, with Jerusalem and Rule Britannia in the soundtrack for the fireworks finale.
Britain’s Got Talent star Denise Leigh lent her voice to songs such as Climb Ev’ry Mountain. She returned later in the evening to lead the audience in the proms finale singalong.
The Spitfire performed a flyover during the orchestra's performance of Elgar's Nimrod. Photo: Chris Lowndes
The concert saw a large turnout of families and friends, many clad in Union Jack clothing and flags as they celebrated Britishness in front of Burghley House. The event also raised £9,814 for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
The Battle Proms returns to Burghley House on July 12, 2025. Early booking offer tickets will go on sale in the autumn.
By Max Carson, photos by Chris Lowndes
People went all out to dress up themselves... and their picnics. Photo: Chris LowndesPeople were jubilant as they enjoyed the orchestra's classical performances. Photo: Chris LowndesThe cannon fire sounded out alongside muskets to announce the start of the Spitfire flyover. Photo: Chris LowndesDouglas Coombes MBE conducted the orchestra for its performance. Photo: Chris LowndesThe New English Concert Orchestra played, following the Battle Proms Belles. Photo: Chris LowndesPicnickers enjoy the concert as the event warms up for the fireworks finale. Photo: Chris LowndesThe performances were appreciated enthusiastically by members of the crowd. Photo: Chris LowndesMany people came together to sing and dance during the concert. Photo: Chris LowndesThe large crowd was buzzing, with Union Jack attire and flags. Photo: Chris LowndesElizabeth and Phil Inskip with Louise and Chris Majoram. Photo: Chris LowndesDave Harris and Matthew Kennerson. Photo: Chris LowndesOnlookers had a variety of outfits and accessories on display. Photo: Chris LowndesThe live performances also included vintage music from the Battle Proms Belles. Photo: Chris LowndesEven spectators appeared in creatively British outfits. Photo: Chris LowndesThe excitement flew as the evening went on. Photo: Chris LowndesMedieval re-enactors entertained the crowd during the eventThe tone was sentimental as well as celebratoryAs in previous years, people flocked to witness the performancesSkilful displays were on show as the evening rolled onHistorically accurate costumes and props were a central focus of the entertainmentPatriotic picnickers admired the performers' displaysBurghley House provided the perfect backdrop. Photo: Chris LowndesThere were high hopes at the time for Sunday's big event. Photo: Chris LowndesAwesome displays adorned the skies. Photo: Chris LowndesThe high-fliers returned to the ground safely after their dazzling spectacle. Photo: Chris LowndesNine-year-old Eabha Shipton. Photo: Chris LowndesCaroline Richardson with three-year-old granddaughter Rosie Reah. Photo: Chris LowndesThe excitement and jubilation continued as the concert picked up from the air displays. Photo: Chris LowndesFamilies gathered to enjoy a picnic together. Photo: Chris LowndesSome people opted for more subtle approaches to the Union Jack-inspired dress code. Photo: Chris Lowndes
One of the next events to come to Burghley House will be the horse trials, from September 5 to September 8.
